Peripheral Neuropathy
Caution! High-impact, strenuous, or prolonged weight-
bearing activities such as walking a long distance,
running on a treadmill, jumping or hopping; exercise
in heat or cold; and weight-bearing exercise when
you have a foot injury, open sore or ulcer
Beneficial Activities Light to moderate daily activities,
exercise in a moderate climate, and moderate
weight-bearing activities that are low-impact such
as walking, cycling, swimming, and chair exercises
(Moderate weight-bearing exercises like walking are
okay once foot ulcers have healed.)
*Those individuals with peripheral neuropathy need to wear appropriate
footwear and should check their feet every day.
Autonomic Neuropathy
Caution! Exercise in extreme heat where dehydration can
occur or activities requiring rapid changes in
movement that may result in fainting (Talk to your
doctor before starting an exercise program — you
may need an exercise stress test.)
Beneficial Activities Mild to moderate aerobic activities
and resistance training, but increase the length
of time you exercise slowly (Follow your doctor’s
recommendations.)
Retinopathy
Caution! Strenuous exercise, activities that require heavy
lifting and straining, breath holding while lifting
or pushing, isometric exercise, and high-impact
activities that cause jarring, head-down activities
Beneficial Activities Moderate activities that are low impact
such as walking, cycling, and water exercise, and
moderate daily chores that do not involve heavy
lifting, straining, or the head to be lower than the
waist
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