Labor Day weekend is here—the last weekend of summer! If you have plans to head to Nantucket Island for the weekend, you may want to pack your running shoes for the Nantucket Rock Run. If you suffer from diabetic neuropathy, you will have make adjustments to exercise safely and avoid any complications to your feet.
Neuropathy is a nerve condition that is found in people with diabetes. It causes tingling, burning, and numbness in your extremities. As a result, you may not be able to feel a foot injury when you have one. If you have diabetes, you need to be very careful when you exercise, so that you avoid any further problems in your feet. Here are some safety tips to consider when exercising:
Try doing low-impact sports, such as swimming or cycling. The less stress you put on your feet, the lower your chances of causing an injury.- Always warm up your feet and legs instead of jumping right into an activity. If your muscles are not warm you may end up pulling or straining something.
- Always drink plenty of water during and after your workout.
- Make sure you have glucose tablets or food with you in case your blood sugar levels dip.
- Go with a friend! Not only is it more fun to make exercise social, but in case of an emergency you have someone there to help out.
- Wear shoes that fit properly. They should allow your toes room to wiggle, but shouldn’t be so loose that your feet are sliding around inside.
- Wear socks that wick away moisture. This is good for avoiding blisters and fungal infections.
- If you feel any sort of discomfort discontinue the activity immediately.
If you have more questions about exercising safely with diabetes or nerve pain, call Dr. Mitchell Wachtel at (978) 794-8406 to schedule an appointment in our Massachusetts offices in North Andover, Lowell, or Haverhill.