Summer is a season full of energy, movement, and opportunity. The days are longer, the weather is warmer, and for many, it’s the perfect time to get outside, enjoy nature, and reconnect with healthy habits. But for individuals living with neuropathy, summer can also come with unique challenges.
At Savoy Therapy, we often work with older adults who are navigating the effects of neuropathy—sensations like tingling, numbness, or sensitivity in the feet and hands. While staying active is an important part of managing these symptoms, it’s equally important to do so safely—especially during the hotter months.
In this blog, we’ll explore how to stay active with neuropathy during the summer season without putting extra stress on your body. Whether you’re experiencing nerve-related changes for the first time or have been managing them for years, you’ll find simple strategies that support comfort, mobility, and confidence—without overheating.
Understanding Neuropathy and Movement
Neuropathy affects the peripheral nervous system—the network of nerves outside the brain and spinal cord. This condition can interfere with how your body sends and receives signals related to movement, temperature, or touch. As a result, individuals with neuropathy may experience:
- Tingling or “pins and needles” sensations
- Burning or numbness in the feet or hands
- Sensitivity to heat or cold
- Muscle weakness or unsteadiness
Because neuropathy can affect balance and coordination, movement may feel more difficult—especially in the summer, when heat and humidity may intensify existing symptoms.
The good news? Movement remains one of the best ways to support circulation, maintain strength, and stay steady on your feet. The key is knowing how to stay active without overdoing it—and choosing exercises that keep your nervous system engaged while also respecting your body’s limits.
Why Summer Can Be Challenging for Those with Neuropathy
For individuals managing neuropathy, summer introduces some additional considerations:
- Increased body temperature may worsen nerve sensitivity or fatigue
- Dehydration can affect circulation and nerve function
- Hot surfaces, like sidewalks or sand, may be harder to feel with reduced foot sensitivity
- Footwear choices may become trickier as lighter shoes provide less support
But these challenges don’t mean you have to sit summer out. With a little planning and care, you can still enjoy everything the season has to offer.
7 Safe, Summer-Friendly Ways to Stay Active with Neuropathy
Here are practical ways to enjoy the summer and stay active—even if you’re living with neuropathy.
1. Choose the Right Time of Day
Avoid peak heat hours. Try walking or stretching outdoors during early morning or late evening, when temperatures are cooler. Your body is more likely to stay comfortable and less likely to overheat.
Tip: If you’re unsure about the temperature, do a simple check—if it’s too warm to walk on the sidewalk barefoot, it’s too warm for extended outdoor activity.
2. Stay Hydrated to Support Nerve Health
Hydration plays a key role in how well your nerves function. In hot weather, you lose fluids more quickly. Dehydration can lead to muscle cramps, increased nerve sensitivity, and fatigue—all things we want to avoid with neuropathy.
Goal: Aim for consistent water intake throughout the day—before, during, and after any physical activity.
3. Wear Supportive Footwear
For those with neuropathy, foot health is essential. Sandals and flip-flops may feel convenient, but they often lack arch support, heel cushioning, or toe protection.
Instead, choose lightweight walking shoes with proper padding and a closed heel. If your feet are sensitive, look for breathable, seamless socks to reduce friction and support circulation.
4. Focus on Gentle, Low-Impact Exercises
You don’t need high-intensity workouts to see benefits. Movement should feel safe, sustainable, and supportive. Focus on exercises that promote blood flow and reduce stiffness while strengthening key muscles.
Summer-Friendly Activities Include:
- Seated marches (gentle knee lifts while sitting in a chair)
- Standing heel raises (rise onto your toes and lower slowly)
- Gentle yoga or stretching under shade or indoors
- Tai chi or guided movement classes focused on balance
Even 10–15 minutes a day can make a big difference in how you feel.
5. Use Cooling Aids to Stay Comfortable
If heat sensitivity is a concern, consider using cooling towels, water misters, or staying near a fan during exercise. If you’re exercising indoors, make sure your space is well ventilated and comfortable.
Bonus Tip: A cool foot soak after a walk can soothe the feet and help reduce swelling or fatigue caused by neuropathy.
6. Listen to Your Body’s Signals
If you begin to feel dizzy, overheated, or unusually fatigued, pause and rest. Neuropathy can affect how quickly your body adjusts to temperature changes or exertion, so it’s important to build in breaks, stay cool, and avoid pushing too hard.
Over time, you’ll learn what level of activity feels right for your body—and your nerves.
7. Support Your Movement with Expert Guidance
Working with a physical therapist or movement specialist can help you build a personalized plan that takes your neuropathy and summer needs into account.
At Savoy Therapy, we help adults of all activity levels discover safe, meaningful movement routines that support nerve health, prevent falls, and improve overall confidence.
Bonus: Stimpod Therapy for Summer Symptom Support
If neuropathy symptoms like burning, tingling, or numbness feel more intense during warmer months, ask us about Stimpod—a non-invasive therapy that uses pulsed radio frequency to gently stimulate nerves and promote improved comfort.
It’s quick, drug-free, and designed to support the body’s natural communication systems—without the side effects of medication or surgery. Many clients report that Stimpod helps them feel more stable and at ease during daily activities, even during the summer months.
What to Avoid When Exercising with Neuropathy in the Summer
While staying active is essential, there are a few things to steer clear of if you’re managing neuropathy during the summer:
- Walking barefoot on hot pavement or sand
- High-impact exercises that could strain joints or increase fall risk
- Skipping warm-ups or cool-downs
- Ignoring unusual sensations like foot swelling or sudden weakness
- Relying solely on open-toe shoes for support
Remember, the goal is consistent, safe movement—not intensity or speed.
Simple Daily Routine for a Summer Morning with Neuropathy
Here’s an example of a gentle, nerve-friendly morning routine:
- Stretch in bed – Wiggle toes, stretch arms and legs before standing
- Seated heel raises – 10 reps to activate the calves
- Walk around the house or yard – 5–10 minutes with supportive shoes
- Hydrate – Drink a full glass of water before heading outside
- Light breakfast – Include a source of protein and healthy fat to support circulation
- Optional: Short Stimpod session to prep for the day
The Bottom Line
Neuropathy doesn’t have to hold you back from enjoying summer. With the right strategies and support, you can stay active, connected, and comfortable—without the risk of overheating or overexertion.
It’s all about listening to your body, adjusting your routine, and focusing on small, consistent steps that promote nerve health.
Take the First Step Today
If you’ve been managing neuropathy and want to feel more confident in your movement this summer, we’re here to help.
📅 Schedule a Free Discovery Visit to talk with a therapist about your needs
👉 https://savoytherapy.com/free-discovery-visit
You deserve to move through summer with more comfort and confidence—let’s take that first step together.
