Hi,
I registered with the forums because my mum (aged 82) has Peripheral Neuropathy and I think I need more advice and help than I can get through the NHS. Mum's been suffering for over a decade and her condition has slowly grown worse though she copes very well.

The thing that's really motivated me to do this is the need for some help from people living with the condition. Mum's been tripping rather a lot lately. Some of her carers who are wonderful, but not experts, have suggested that we exchange her carpets for wooden flooring. If it'll help we'll do it in a heartbeat, but I'm concerned that she'll be swapping a carpeted floor where she catches her feet for a slippery wooden floor - so in effect she'll just be swapping tripping for slipping and she'll still have the same number of falls but for a different reason.

Does anyone have any experience of whether a smooth solid flooring does help, or indeed any other footwear/socks whatever that help to prevent quite so many pirouettes as my mum calls them.

I'd be really very grateful for any advice.

Mel

Welcome to NeuroTalk:

You need to evaluate if she is catching her toes on the floor... that would suggest "foot drop". If foot drop then special shoes would be best.

Sometimes it is just not knowing where the feet are, since those nerves may be affected and not working..the ones for positional movement.

You may have to talk to the doctor or therapist about this and get professional opinions.

Mel,

It is great to have you come and be with us. You will fine a great number of dear friends to listen when you are in need of ears. Please, just let us know how we can help you out. You will find out we are supportive and relaxing place.

Sad to hear of what your mother is going through. Click onto the following forum, there are a great number of dear friends there to help out.

Peripheral Neuropathy:
http://neurotalk.psychcentral.com/forum20.html

Please keep us up to date on your situation. Again welcome, looking forward to seeing you around. My thoughts and prayers are with you.