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The Question
11/18/11 08:12 AM

"I have been having pain in my feet and ankles for several months now. Neuropahy was diagnosed. Just need some help and info on what to do."
Asked By: ghostrider  
Category: Neuropathy

Background Info Hide
I was sent home last week from work (I work security) due to pain in foot/ankle. I went to my dr and now I am on What I consider severe restrictions. I do plan to see him again next week. No standing for more than 5 minutes and less than 3 minutes of walking at a time. No running at all. Medical at work sent me home again when I tried to return to work, due to there is no work for me with restrictions. I am very concern due to the fact that my job is on the line now due to my restrictions. With no job I have no way to continue with my medical care. I also have arthritis in hands, sjogrens disease, Arizona has severly cut back on state care. I am at the point of what to do. I do plan on applying for short term disability with my company that will last for about 6 months. Then what am I going to do. Any suggestions will most helpful in pointing me in the right direction.

Expert Answers (1)

11/25/11 10:48 AM

Hello ghostrider
Thank you for bringing your concerns to dLife. You have not shared your diabetic status with us. You have shared some of your medical history including that you have arthritis and Sjogrens disease. You describe symptoms of severe ankle and foot pain that has limited your ability to work, walk and stand. I recommend good foot care including daily inspection, good footwear and seeing a podiatrist for an annual diabetic foot evaluation. Also I cannot emphasize enough the importance of maintaining a healthy weight and achieving your goal of an A1c of 7% or less. As for exercise, since walking and standing cause so much pain, how about water exercises at your local YMCA?

The insurance issue is a major concern. Each State does manage how it administers Medicaid benefits. You need to know what is available if you lose the benefits your employer is supplying. Talk to your human resources department, call you county or state welfare office. Ask questions of anyone who will listen. Being prepared for the worst but striving for the best will reduce your anxiety. Investigate if there is free legal services that may help you if you need to apply for social security. You will need the advice and need the support of your doctors. read about neuropathy.

Answered By: Rita Juray
Accreditations: RN, MLT-ASCP, CCM, CDE
Sources Show

Community Answers (1)

12/27/11 01:47 PM

I am going thru the exact same thing. My first suggestion is to apply for Social Security Disability as soon as possible. This process take any where from 4-6 months just to get a answer and that answer may not be what you are wanting to hear. There decission is based on your condition, duration (expected to last 12 months or more), restrictions, work history and age. If your condition improves and you are albe to return to work you can cancel your application or work part-time and still recieve SSDI. As far as the limitations and inability to walk and stand, I like the answer given reguarding the "Y" it is a great place to work at your own pace. My Y has heated therapy pool and classes that will help with the stiffness and pain. INSURANCE is a major hurtle. I have lost all of my medical coverage and have to depend on my local free clinic. In my case "free is not free", my DR. co-payment is $50 and meds are based on income, so I have to be aware of the costs with each visit and address all of my concerns with each visit. If your employer offers short-term disability covedrage they may also offer long-term coverage and income. This is the route I went and it was a Godsend due to loss of all other income. I have recently been approved for SSDI so I have some income, but it is not much. I will be seeking a part-time job that will allow me to work with my restrictions and strength ambulation restrictions. ambulation. Good Luck and keep moving as much as you can to avoid loss of motion and strength.
Answered By: shirfire
FLAG
SourcesShow



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*** All information contained on dLife.com is intended for informational and educational purposes only. Our Expert Q&A is not intended to be a replacement or substitute for consultation with a qualified medical professional or for professional medical advice related to diabetes or another medical condition. Please contact your physician or medical professional with any questions and concerns about your medical condition.

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