Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that affects the nerves that carry messages from the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body. These nerves control movement and sensation in the limbs, and damage to them can result in a range of symptoms, including numbness, tingling, and pain. People with peripheral neuropathy often wonder whether they should walk or exercise, and whether doing so could make their symptoms worse. In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits and risks of walking with peripheral neuropathy and answer some frequently asked questions about the topic.
Benefits of Walking with Peripheral Neuropathy
While walking with peripheral neuropathy may seem daunting, there are several benefits to doing so. Regular walking can improve your overall health and wellbeing and alleviate some of the symptoms associated with peripheral neuropathy.
Improved circulation: Walking stimulates blood flow to the feet and legs, which can help to reduce pain and discomfort caused by poor circulation. It can also help prevent complications such as ulcers and infections, common in people with peripheral neuropathy.
Reduced pain and inflammation: Walking releases endorphins, which are natural painkillers that can help reduce peripheral neuropathy symptoms. It also helps to reduce inflammation in the body, which can contribute to pain and other symptoms.
Increased strength and flexibility: Walking is a low-impact exercise that can help to strengthen the muscles in the legs and feet. This can help improve balance and stability, reducing the risk of falls and other injuries.
Improved mood: Exercise, including walking, can improve mood and reduce feelings of anxiety and depression. This can be particularly important for people with peripheral neuropathy, who may experience significant emotional distress as a result of their symptoms.
Risks of Walking with Peripheral Neuropathy
While there are many benefits to walking with peripheral neuropathy, there are also some risks to be aware of. People with peripheral neuropathy may be more susceptible to falls and injuries due to decreased foot and leg sensation. It is important to take appropriate precautions to minimize these risks.
Foot injuries: People with peripheral neuropathy are at increased risk of foot injuries such as blisters, cuts, and sores. These injuries can slowly heal and lead to serious infections if not treated promptly.
Falls: Peripheral neuropathy can affect balance and coordination, increasing the risk of falls. Falls can cause serious injuries, especially in older adults.
Overuse injuries: Walking or exercising too much can lead to overuse injuries such as shin splints, stress fractures, and plantar fasciitis. These injuries can be painful and take a long time to heal, which can exacerbate peripheral neuropathy symptoms.
Heat intolerance: Some people with peripheral neuropathy may experience heat intolerance, which exercise can exacerbate. This can cause symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, and nausea.
Tips for Walking with Peripheral Neuropathy
Suppose you have peripheral neuropathy and are considering walking or other forms of exercise. In that case, there are some tips you can follow to reduce your risk of injury and manage your symptoms.
Wear appropriate footwear: Choose shoes that fit well and provide good support. Look for shoes with a wide toe box, cushioned soles, and good arch support.
Check your feet regularly: People with peripheral neuropathy should check their feet regularly for signs of injury, such as blisters or cuts. If you notice any abnormalities, seek medical attention right away.
Start slowly: If you are new to exercise or have not been active in a while, start slowly and gradually increase your activity level. This can help to reduce the risk of injury and minimize symptoms.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after exercise to prevent dehydration and heat intolerance.
Avoid high-impact activities: Activities that involve jumping or running can be hard on the joints and increase the risk of injury. Stick to low-impact exercises like walking, cycling, or swimming.
Use assistive devices: If you have balance or coordination problems, consider using a cane, walker, or other assistive device to help you stay stable while walking.
Listen to your body: Pay attention to how your body feels while walking or exercising. If you experience pain or discomfort, take a break and rest. If symptoms persist, consult your healthcare provider.
Frequently Asked Questions about Walking with Peripheral Neuropathy
Is walking good for peripheral neuropathy?
Yes, walking can be beneficial for people with peripheral neuropathy. It can improve circulation, reduce pain and inflammation, increase strength and flexibility, and improve mood.
How often should I walk if I have peripheral neuropathy?
The frequency and duration of walking will depend on your individual situation and level of fitness. Start with short walks and gradually increase the distance and duration over time. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity activity on most days of the week.
Can walking make peripheral neuropathy worse?
Walking can exacerbate symptoms of peripheral neuropathy if appropriate precautions are not taken. People with peripheral neuropathy are at increased risk of foot injuries, falls, and overuse injuries. It is important to wear appropriate footwear, check your feet regularly, start slowly, and listen to your body to minimize the risk of injury and symptoms.
Can exercise cure peripheral neuropathy?
There is currently no cure for peripheral neuropathy. However, exercise can help to alleviate some of the symptoms associated with the condition, such as pain, numbness, and tingling.
What other types of exercise are good for peripheral neuropathy?
In addition to walking, other types of exercise that can be beneficial for people with peripheral neuropathy include cycling, swimming, yoga, and tai chi. These low-impact activities can help to improve strength, balance, and flexibility without putting excessive stress on the joints.
Conclusion
Walking can be a valuable form of exercise for people with peripheral neuropathy, offering a range of physical and mental health benefits. However, it is important to take appropriate precautions to minimize the risk of injury and exacerbating symptoms. By following the tips outlined in this post and consulting with your healthcare provider, you can safely incorporate walking and other forms of exercise into your daily routine to manage your peripheral neuropathy symptoms and improve your overall quality of life.
