Originally Posted by pninn

I'm 70 years old and first started experiencing PN (small fiber, idiopathic, they tell me) symptoms about 15 years ago. Over the years it progressed very gradually and never got to a point where it troubled me too badly.

About 4 months ago I underwent some stress and have been suffering from severe insomnia ever since. During this time my PN symptoms have increased dramatically. I suspose there's a relation there but I was wondering if anyone had any data or thoughts about that. Can the nervous system become inflamed? That's how it feels. Will this improve once I start sleeping again?

A second question has to do with walking. I try to stay fairly active and take long walks lately (even more so lately as a means of curbing the insomnia). The extensive walking however seems to further agravate the PN symptoms. I am noticing more pain, numbness and a spreading of the symptoms up the side and top of my feet. Anyone have any insights?

Thanks,
Terry