Work That Body If You Have Neuropathy

Today's post from diabeticconnect.com (see link below) is another one about having neuropathy and the need for exercise. I know, half of you will immediately say 'Enough already! We know we should exercise but that's so much easier said than done!' It's true; I feel the same way but the more ideas we can find that are practical and reduce the pain of exertion to a minimum, the more likely it is that we try some of them and adopt them into our daily patterns. This person also seems to appreciate how difficult it is for neuropathy patients to exercise and realises that it's a painful task. She has proposed a series of easy exercises that everybody can do in their own home and in their own time. It's vital that we keep our muscles and joints moving and the blood circulating because otherwise, the nerve system just gives up and it's already under enough pressure thanks to the damage of neuropathy. Give them a read and then maybe give some of them a go but always listen to your body. If it's too painful, then do a little bit and try again later after a rest period but don't let your brain fool you into thinking that exercise isn't important - unfortunately it is!

Neuropathy and Exercise:
These simple exercises may help reduce your pain 
By Shayli Lones 

Peripheral neuropathy is common in those with diabetes and can result in pain, numbness, and tingling. These symptoms can make it hard to complete daily tasks — let alone exercise. One of the most common reasons people with diabetes aren't getting enough exercise is pain. But according to research, exercising more often may help ease the pain associated with neuropathy.

Low-impact exercises like walking, swimming or using an elliptical or stationary bike can get you moving without causing unnecessary pain. It’s important if you have peripheral neuropathy to make sure you are wearing proper footwear when walking outside. Get in the habit of always checking your feet after exercising; check for redness, swelling, and ulcerations. If you're walking frequently, it’s important to keep your toenails trimmed to reduce any irritation. Remember, you don't have to go out and walk five miles your first day. Start small and set goals that are achievable.

Easy at home exercises

Exercise doesn't have to involve running or going to the gym every day. There are many exercises you can do in the comfort of your home while sitting or standing.

Knee Raises. Sit on a chair with both feet flat on the floor, with your back straight. Lift one knee as high as you can while pointing your toes, hold for 2 to 3 seconds and release slowly down to the floor. Repeat 20 times with both legs.

Leg Raises. Sit on a chair with both feet flat on the floor, with your back straight. Straighten your knee and lift your leg a couple inches off the chair. Hold your extended leg for 2 to 3 seconds, then slowly bend your knee and lower slowly to the ground. Repeat on both legs 20 times.

Toe Tapping. Sit on a chair with your heels on the floor. Lift your toes off the ground, creating a tapping motion. You can also adjust the positioning of your heels; together with toes apart, or opposite with toes together and heels apart. Repeat 20 to 30 times. Put on your favorite song and tap to the beat. This is also a great exercise you can do while watching TV.

Lifting weights. Many arm exercises can be done while sitting. If you don't have small weights at home, you can fill water bottles with water or use half-gallon milk jugs. Here are some simple exercises that will help keep your arms in shape.

Chest Press. While laying on your back on a bench, hold weights chest high with your elbows out. Push the weights straight out, not locking out your elbows. Slowly bring them back into your chest and repeat 20 times.

Seated Curls. Sitting up straight, plant both feet firmly on the floor. Hold the weights near the top of your thighs and slowly raise them until they are shoulder height. Slowly lower the weight back to your thighs and repeat 20 times on both arms.

Arm Raises. Stand with weights in hands and arms resting at your side. Slowly raise your arms creating a “T” with your body, hold for 2 to 3 second and slowly lower your arms. Repeat 20 to 30 times.

Any exercise you can fit into your day is better than doing none at all. It’s important to remain active and preserve mobility, especially when you're living with neuropathy. By working with your doctor you can create an exercise routine that will keep you moving and may help reduce pain associated with neuropathy.

To learn more about exercise and neuropathy:

Three Neuropathy-Friendly Exercises to Try

Doctor Discussion Guide: Neuropathy

Use Exercise to Ease Neuropathy Symptoms

Sources:

http://www.consultant360.com/articles/exercise-patients-diabetic-peripheral-neuropathy-getting-right-foot

http://www.diabeticconnect.com/diabetes-information-articles/general/898-neuropathy-and-exercise