Falling a lot

[Janiebona]

I have diabetes Type 2. Several years ago,I fell off a laddr and broke my leg at the knee. During the exams following,they said I have neuropathy in my legs. I fall a lot,especialy on my right leg and always seem to hit the spot where broke my leg. This has happened several time. A few weeks ago,I was walking and it's like my right leg just went out from under me and I fell on it again. It's extremely painful. This time the pain went from my knee up to my hip and the pain was bad. I see my orthopedist tmorrow to see if I did any damage.

Could it be my neuropathy that makes me suddenly just trip and fall? I am care giver to my husband and this is causing a huge problem. I rip a lot and and have finally pulled out my hated walker in far I may break my leg again. This time,I suspect a hop fracture but it may just be inflammation around the hip from the fall. My leg hurt prteety bad but I can walk on it. I try to rest it as much as possible.

[Dr. Smith]

Hi Janie, Welcome.

It could be your neuropathy that makes you trip & fall, but I don't think anyone could say for sure; we're just peers -- not doctors. Neuropathy is damage to the nerves, which in addition to sensory nerves (causing numbness and pain) may affect motor nerves (how you walk and how your leg "knows" where it is). By all means, ask your orthopedist about this. Are you seeing a neurologist for the neuropathy as well?

My PN affects my balance; I've needed/used a cane for some time now.

I don't know if this would be appropriate for you and your situation, but at times when you have to walk outside or on hard surfaces, would it be possible for you to wear some type of athletic knee pad or other protection on that leg to prevent/reduce any further damage? (These are just examples -- other types are available online or at sporting goods stores.)

Doc