Physical Therapy for Neuropathy: How It Helps

Neuropathy can make even the simplest tasks feel difficult.

If you’re dealing with tingling, numbness, muscle weakness, or nerve pain, you’re not alone.

The good news is that physical therapy along with other treatments can help manage symptoms and improve mobility.

At Marin Regenerative Health, we take a comprehensive approach to neuropathy treatment, combining physical therapy, regenerative medicine, and cutting-edge therapies to help you feel better and move with confidence.

Let’s take a look at how you can treat your neuropathy.

GET RELIEF FROM YOUR NEUROPATHY

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy, or peripheral neuropathy, happens when nerves outside the brain and spinal cord become damaged.

This can cause chronic pain, weakness, numbness, and balance problems, making everyday activities harder.

Common Causes of Neuropathy

Diabetes (diabetic neuropathy)
Autoimmune diseases like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis
Chemotherapy-induced neuropathy
Injuries or accidents
Vitamin deficiencies
Exposure to toxins
Post-Surgery Neuropathy

Regardless of the cause, physical therapy is a key part of managing neuropathy and improving nerve function.

How Physical Therapy Helps Neuropathy

Physical therapy can’t cure neuropathy, but it can help relieve symptoms, improve movement, and prevent further damage.

At Marin Regenerative Health, we create customized treatment plans to:

Increase blood flow to damaged nerves
Improve strength and coordination
Reduce nerve pain and discomfort
Prevent further loss of mobility
Help you stay independent and active

Best Physical Therapy Exercises for Neuropathy

Studies show that well-designed exercise program can make a big difference in neuropathy pain management.

Here are some key exercises physical therapists use to restore balance, build strength, and improve circulation.

Balance and Coordination Training

Neuropathy can throw off your balance, increasing the risk of falls.

These exercises help strengthen stabilizing muscles and improve coordination:

Heel-to-toe walking (like walking a tightrope)
Single-leg stands (holding onto a sturdy surface for support)
Proprioceptive exercises that retrain nerve-muscle connections

Strength Training for Nerve Pain

When nerves are damaged, muscles can weaken over time.

Building strength helps prevent further deterioration and supports better movement:

Resistance band exercises for arms and legs
Seated leg lifts to strengthen lower body muscles
Grip-strengthening exercises for hands and fingers

Stretching for Nerve Health

Tight muscles can worsen nerve pain.

Stretching helps improve flexibility and reduce stiffness:

Toe and ankle stretches to improve foot mobility
Hamstring stretches for better leg flexibility
Hip flexor stretches to ease lower body tension

Low-Impact Aerobic Exercises

Gentle aerobic activities help improve circulation, boost nerve function, and reduce pain.

Some of the best options include:

Walking on even surfaces
Swimming or water therapy to reduce pressure on joints
Stationary biking for controlled movement

Neuromuscular Re-Education

This type of therapy teaches your nerves and muscles to work together again.

It’s especially useful if neuropathy has affected your ability to walk or perform everyday tasks.

A therapist may use:

Gait training to help you walk safely
Mirror therapy to stimulate nerve pathways
Functional movement exercises to improve coordination

Other Therapies That Support Physical Therapy

At Marin Regenerative Health, we combine physical therapy with advanced treatments to give you the best results.

Manual Therapy and Massage

Hands-on techniques help release tension, improve circulation, and stimulate nerve function.

Electrical Stimulation Therapy (TENS)

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) uses mild electrical pulses to block pain signals and encourage nerve healing.

Regenerative Medicine for Neuropathy

We offer regenerative treatments that help nerves heal naturally:

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy to support nerve repair
Stem Cell Therapy to promote tissue regeneration
IV Therapy to restore vitamins and nutrients essential for nerve health

How Marin Regenerative Health Can Help with Neuropathy

We don’t just treat symptoms—we focus on helping your body heal.

Our team creates personalized treatment plans that combine:

Regenerative medicine to promote healing
Nutritional support to improve nerve function

Our goal is to help you reduce pain, regain mobility, and prevent further nerve damage so you can live life on your terms.

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Conclusion: Physical Therapy For Neuropathy

Neuropathy doesn’t have to limit your life.

With the right combination of physical therapy and advanced treatments, you can reduce pain, regain movement, and feel better.

At Marin Regenerative Health, we provide comprehensive, non-invasive treatments designed to help your body heal.

FAQs: Physical Therapy For Neuropathy

What is sciatic neuropathy?
Sciatic neuropathy occurs when the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down the legs, becomes damaged or compressed. This can cause severe pain, weakness, numbness, and tingling in the lower back, hips, and legs. It’s often linked to conditions like herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or direct nerve injury. Physical therapy can help by improving mobility, strengthening supporting muscles, and reducing pressure on the sciatic nerve.

Can neuropathy be treated with physical therapy?
Yes, physical therapy is an effective way to manage neuropathy symptoms. While it won’t cure nerve damage, it can help improve circulation, restore muscle strength, and enhance coordination to reduce pain and prevent further complications. A structured program may include balance training, strengthening exercises, stretching, and low-impact aerobic activities to support nerve health and function.

Do and don’ts for neuropathy?
Do focus on gentle exercises, maintain a healthy diet rich in nerve-supporting nutrients, stay hydrated, and wear comfortable, supportive footwear. Avoid excessive alcohol, smoking, prolonged periods of inactivity, and tight or restrictive shoes that can worsen circulation and nerve pain. Working with a physical therapist can help you find the best strategies to protect your nerves and improve function.

How to help with neuropathy in legs and feet?
Improving circulation and nerve function is key to relieving neuropathy in the legs and feet. Regular physical therapy exercises like balance training, resistance exercises, and stretching can help maintain mobility and reduce pain. Wearing well-fitted, cushioned shoes, using warm foot soaks to encourage blood flow, and maintaining good posture can also help. Some people benefit from treatments like regenerative medicine, electrical stimulation, or IV therapy to support nerve health.

What is the best exercise for neuropathy in your feet?
One of the best exercises for neuropathy in the feet is seated toe and heel raises. This simple movement helps improve circulation, strengthen foot muscles, and enhance balance. Other beneficial exercises include ankle circles, resistance band exercises, and gentle walking on even surfaces. A physical therapist can design a program tailored to your specific needs.

What’s the worst thing for neuropathy?
Ignoring symptoms and staying inactive can make neuropathy worse over time. Poor circulation, high blood sugar levels, excessive alcohol consumption, and smoking all contribute to worsening nerve damage. Wearing tight shoes or standing for long periods without movement can also increase discomfort. It’s important to take an active role in managing symptoms through physical therapy, lifestyle changes, and proper medical care.

Should you walk a lot with neuropathy?
Walking can be beneficial for neuropathy as long as it’s done carefully and in moderation. Short, gentle walks on even surfaces can help improve circulation, strengthen muscles, and reduce stiffness. However, overdoing it or walking on hard, uneven ground may increase pain and discomfort. If walking becomes painful, a physical therapist can recommend alternative exercises to keep you active while protecting your nerves.