Patient was instructed on measures to prevent falls when bathing. Install grab handles and nonskid mats inside and outside the shower/tub and near the toilet and sinks. Use shower chair and bath benches.
Patient was instructed on measures to prevent falls when bathing. Get into the shower/tub by putting the weaker leg in first. Get out of the tub / shower with the strong side first. Use a long handle brush or mittens with straps to help with bathing.
Patient was instructed on measures to prevent outdoor falls. Use a cane or walker as needed. Walk on grass when the sidewalks are slippery. Wear well fitting shoes. Wear glasses as prescribed.
Patient was instructed on measures to prevent falls. Avoid throw rugs. Secure any loose handrails. Wear glasses if prescribed. Change positions slowly. Wear well-fitting shoes.
Patient was instructed on measures to prevent falls at home such as removing things like thresholds, throw rugs, and clutter. Repairing loose carpet or raised areas in the floor, moving furniture or electrical cords out of the walking paths.
Patient was instructed on measures to prevent falls at home during daily activities. Do not try to carry too many things at the same time. Have a place near the door where it is possible to place packages and groceries while you close the door and get ready to put things away.
Patient was instructed about foot care, trying non-impact exercise such as swimming, cycling, yoga, and tai chi are increasingly popular ways to exercise - with minimal impact on the feet. Talk with the doctor before starting an exercise program. Further teaching is needed.
Patient was instructed on foot care: a podiatrist can also fit patient with shoe inserts called orthotics to support the feet if have diabetic nerve pain or the muscles have become weak from nerve damage. If pain or weakness is so severe that it's too painful or even impossible to walk, a foot brace or orthopedic shoes might help. Further teaching is needed.
The best treatment for nerve pain, ultimately, is to manage your diabetes well. In fact, a major study by the American Diabetes Association in 2006 showed that strict blood glucose control with intensive insulin therapy lowered the chances of having symptoms of peripheral neuropathy - tingling, burning, and pain - by 64%. While you can't control whether or not you get diabetic nerve pain, you can help control your glucose levels with diet, exercise, and mediations if you need them.
Your feet are your source of independence - or at least its foundation. Give your feet a little tenderness, a little loving care, each day. And be sure to have your doctor take a good look at your feet during each of your diabetes checkups, in case you missed anything.