Balance Issues With Neuropathy

Today's post from absolutefootcarelv.com (see link below) looks at a common problem for people living with neuropathy and that is maintaining balance on various surfaces. You think you have everything under control and then a sudden loss of balance can take you unawares and lead to potential injury. Yoy have to try to be aware of your footing at all times but this is often easier said than done. This short article gives some useful tips and therapies you can carry out at home to improve your balance. Worth trying out.
 

Don’t Take Balance for Granted
Dr. Noah Levine Sept. 22

Every afternoon, Las Vegas witnesses the Fall of Atlantis. It’s true—every hour, from 11 AM to close at Caesars Forum Shops, a spectacular fountain show with lights, pyrotechnics, animatronics, and of course water spouts reenacts the dramatic fall of the mythical kingdom. It’s a fun, 11-minute show that’ll entertain your whole family. Of course, if you have diabetes, Atlantis isn’t the only fall that should concern you. Your own sense of balance might be compromised by the disease.
 
Diabetes slowly degrades your nerves, inhibiting them. Your feet are particularly susceptible, so it’s fairly common for diabetics to develop peripheral neuropathy, especially if you struggle with controlling your blood sugar levels. The problem is that this also weakens your sense of balance. Numbness in your lower limbs increases your odds of falling by having weak muscles that are unable to maintain your balance.

Exercises and therapy to improve your balance, however, can help you stay on your feet and avoid injuries from falling. Here are a few simple ones you can do at home:

Heel-toe walking – Walk in a straight line across a room, carefully setting your heel down first, then lowering the ball of the foot and the toes. Set the next step directly in front of the first, so the heel of that foot touches the toes of your other.

One-leg balancing – Stand on one leg for 30 seconds without holding anything for support. When that gets easier, extend your time or close your eyes.

Unstable surface balancing – Balance on one foot while standing on a pillow, mini trampoline, or some other soft surface. You may need to start while holding a chair, then slowly let go and try to balance for 30 seconds.

Ankle circles – Sitting with your feet in front of you, rotate your feet at the ankles in clockwise and counterclockwise circles, 10 rotations in each direction.
Heel raises – Stand with your feet apart. Slowly rise up on your toes, then lower to flat. Repeat 10 – 20 times. Your sense of balance is important for your mobility. It’s hard to walk around and be active if you can’t stay upright! Don’t take your balance for granted, particularly if you have diabetes.

http://www.absolutefootcarelv.com/blog/dont-take-balance-granted/