Benefits of Exercise for People with Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy is a common neurological disorder that can be caused by injury, alcohol abuse, toxin exposure or as a complication of diabetes. Peripheral neuropathy interferes with information transmission between the brain and spinal cord, and can cause many symptoms, including muscle degeneration, numbness, digestive problems and abnormal blood pressure. Exercises for peripheral neuropathy can improve blood and oxygen flow to muscles, regulate blood pressure and improve overall well-being.

Muscle Strength

• One of the most important benefits of exercise for peripheral neuropathy is to strengthen muscles and slow the muscle degeneration associated with peripheral neuropathy. People with peripheral neuropathy may experience muscle atrophy if muscles are not regularly exercised, leading to immobility. Strengthening the muscles can also help combat some of the troublesome symptoms of peripheral neuropathy such as muscle cramps, muscle twitching and loss of dexterity.

Flexibility

• People with peripheral neuropathy may experience a loss of flexibility, so exercises for peripheral neuropathy that emphasize flexibility, such as yoga postures, are especially beneficial for people with this condition. Short stints of walking or bicycling can also improve flexibility in people with peripheral neuropathy. In their October 1997 research report in the journal Physical Therapy, Janet L. Ruhland and Richard K. Shields recommend supine hamstring, knee-to-chest and heel chord stretches to target the areas that tend to be tightest in people with neurological disorders.

Blood Pressure

• One of the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy is abnormalities in blood pressure. Moderate exercise is known to decrease blood pressure in the general population, and according to an October 2004 article in Neurology Reviews, people with peripheral neuropathy who exercised saw as much as a 10 mmHG drop in blood pressure. Exercise systems such as gentle yoga or tai chi may be even more effective at regulating blood pressure, especially if blood pressure tends to be high.

Other Benefits

• Neurology Reviews reports other benefits of exercise for peripheral neuropathy such as improved cholesterol levels and improved ability to sense vibrations in the feet. In Ruhland and Shields' research, people with peripheral neuropathy who exercised reported significantly less bodily pain than those who did not exercise. Exercise may also increase energy levels and create a greater sense of well-being and quality of life.

Warning

• Although there are many potential benefits of exercise for peripheral neuropathy, too much exercise can be harmful. It is important to discuss your exercise plans with your health care provider and choose an exercise routine that will help, rather than aggravate, your symptoms. Avoid cross-legged positions or exercises that put pressure on the elbow and knee joints. If choosing a yoga class for peripheral neuropathy, avoid heated classes and look for an instructor with training in yoga therapy. People with peripheral neuropathy caused by diabetes should avoid aerobic exercise because of the strain on the feet.