Some exercises to help Peripheral Neuropathy

Low Impact Exercises

Swimming or water aerobics can be gentle forms of exercise. Water supports your body, putting less pressure on feet affected by nerve pain. Yoga and tai chi may also be good choices. Their movements may help with balance and relaxation.

Start doing exercises slowly & increase them gradually

Starting exercise can be challenging. Make it easier by starting slowly. Try five minutes of extra movement a day and add a little more time each day. It is recommended  that  building up to 30 minutes a day, five days a week.

If you have nerve damage and are concerned about falls, start with some moves to build your balance.

How to improve your balance

Build your balance by practising rising out of a chair. Do it three times in a row. At first you can use your arms to help and steady you. Work towards doing it unassisted. This is one of several moves to try to improve your balance.

Balance on One Leg

Slowly raise one foot off the ground so that you are standing on one leg. Try holding for 30 seconds, then switch. As you get better, try and balance for a little longer. You can practice this move almost anywhere -- at the sink in the morning, while shopping, or while talking  on the phone. Your goal is to do this hands-free. In case you need to steady yourself, have a stable object nearby.

Tight rope walking ?!

No high wire needed for this move -- just follow the same motion. Practice walking heel to toe. Line one foot up directly in front of the other as you step forward. Leave some bend in your knees and spread out your arms to help you balance. For an extra challenge, reverse and try taking a few steps backwards.

Standing on toes

Stand near a chair, railing, or other object for support. Slowly rise up onto the balls of both feet and hold. Do three times. Each time try and hold longer.

Balance moves can be done every day. With more confidence in your balance you can add other activities.

Check before & after exercise

Get your heart, eyes, and feet checked out by your doctor before starting a new form of exercise. After each workout look for injury to feet, and other areas prone to injury. When you have diabetes blisters, cracks, cuts, and scrapes should be treated with extra care to avoid infection.

Good shoes & some healthy snacks for exercising

Having a good fitting pair of athletic shoes is especially important for people with diabetes. They can help you avoid foot injury. When shopping, look for a roomy toe box to prevent unwanted rubbing and blisters.

On your way to exercising, pack a quick source of carbohydrates in case your blood sugar drops. Hard candy and raisins may be good choices.

Check your blood sugar before & after exercise

Check blood glucose before and after exercise. It can help you learn exercise's effect on your blood sugar to help you manage it. The safe range for exercise is between 100 and 250 mg/dL.

If your average blood sugar is over 250 mg/dL and you have type 1 diabetes, you'll want to check for ketones in your urine. If it is moderate or high, delay exercise until it lowers.

Exercising with a friend or pet makes it feel more fun

Make plans with a good friend or your pet to work out.  You and your buddy can help each other stay committed to exercising. Making it social may provide extra motivation. And picking a workout buddy at your fitness level can also help you to feel comfortable. Other ways to work out with others include group classes at the gym or recreational teams.

Try something new or different to keep off boredom while exercising

By mixing up the routine of exercises, with something new will make it more interesting & it will also motivate you to continue with your exercises. Try a new sport, but see that it is up to your fitness level only, but before trying, ask your Dr.'s permission. Above all do it slowly, within your limits.