Preventing Falls and Injuries This Winter (Especially if You Have Neuropathy)

Diabetes can damage your circulation and nerve function, reducing your ability to process sensory data from the nerves in your feet and ankles. This is called diabetic neuropathy, and it’s incredibly common. 

Not only can this condition lead to a serious wound or infection on your foot, but you can also encounter issues with your balance and stability, increasing your risk of falls.

Lowering your fall risk is an important part of overall diabetes care. As partners in your health and wellness journey, Leland Gilmore, DPM, and Shalin Panchigar, DPM, at Capital Podiatry Associates in Alexandria, Virginia, are happy to discuss ways to help you address this challenge.

5 tips to help prevent falls when you have diabetic neuropathy

Consider these strategies to help you stay steady on your feet, especially if diabetic neuropathy has already begun to affect your balance.

1. Manage your blood sugar

Low blood glucose (hypoglycemia) can cause you to feel dizzy and hamper your balance, so managing your blood sugar is important. If you feel your blood sugar dropping, eat some rapid-acting carbohydrates to help restore proper blood glucose levels quickly. 

2. Keep your eyeglasses handy

If you rely on eyeglasses to improve your vision, be sure to have them handy and use them regularly. Poor vision makes it more challenging to maintain your balance and see potential obstacles in your path. 

3. Stretch your feet and ankles

Many people benefit from performing simple foot and ankle stretches first before they stand up and walk. Flexing your foot several times can help get your blood flowing and “wake up” the nerves that assist with balance. 

4. Remove fall hazards

The importance of removing fall hazards cannot be overstated. Eliminate throw rugs from your home, and check for other items that could increase your risk of tripping. Also, try to find someone to shovel and clear any snow and ice in areas where you walk regularly.

5. Build a balance training program

Maintaining your balance requires the careful coordination of your muscles, nerves, connective tissues, and bones throughout your waking hours. Balance training strengthens the muscles and reflexes responsible for stability, helping your body stay centered and steady as you move. 

While everyone can benefit from balance training, older adults and those living with diabetes should give it close consideration. 

As with strength and flexibility training, balance training requires frequent, routine exercises, many of which can be found online. Our team at Capital Podiatry Associates can also help you build a balance training program.

Get expert care to stay balanced and prevent falls

Our providers are dedicated to giving you personalized guidance on decreasing fall risk and issues surrounding diabetic foot care. Call us to book a face-to-face visit, or use our online scheduling tool.