A question I have frequently is what do you do (mentally or physically) to cope with PN when you are at work and its really hurting - aside from taking a sick day.

I teach middle school and this afternoon my feet were just killing me, It just sapped any energy I had to teach. The kids were all working on a project and I just sat at my desk and tried to relax.

I have been using a cane more and more because of the motor PN in my left leg, waiting to get fitted for a leg brace later this week. But beyond that, my feet were just burning and it was hard to concentrate.

I find that I have to recognize that I have good days and bad days, and when I have a good day, I try to get as much done as I possibly can, knowing that the next day could just be terrible. This has been my strategy for not letting the work pile up. But it means I take a lot of work home with me all the time (grading planning etc) I would much rather go do something fun on those good days, I know I need to do that as well.

Hope I didnt ramble too much.

I worked for 32 yrs with PN in my feet. The first years were the worst. (and this is a standing up job--- using high brainpower for decisions and computer working).

I did not have motor involvement. But my hands were worse on the job than the feet (they seemed better with movement). Using soft shoes helps. I had terrible carpal tunnel, which I used braces for at night. Finally in my mid forties
I got the diagnosis of hypothyroid which changed things. Not everything but close to 90% (still had flares and some pain).

I was worse at night in bed than at work. I learned self hypnosis to deal with that. Once I started a good supplement plan, I was better yet.

Avoidance of excess salt, and especially foods containing MSG (monosodium glutamate) also helps me. I seem triggered by these. Also potatoes are bad for me...cause alot of burning.
I use NO sugar or high fructose corn syrup, and that has helped my GI woes TREMENDOUSLY.

It takes time to adjust, and to think and perhaps learn new things that may help. It is not easy, and I had little compassion from the doctors.

Hello,

I am a teacher's assistant and worked with mentally challenged children for the past two years. We walk on many filed trips, the walking was painful at times, but it forced me to exercise, that was actually good for me.

My symptoms were annoying at work at times, and like you some days were worse some days were better.

I was able to sit down at times, and work with the students, but still I was probably on my feet more than off. I am presently taking some time off, to get on some type of treatment plan for my PN pain.

However, now that I am off, I have come to realize that since life goes on, and I am still out and about, and very active, it really doesn't matter where I am or what I am doing, the PN exists, so I might as well be working and making money.

I hope that you have more good days than bad ones! and maybe since you teach you can have a brake during summer?

Patty