General question regarding foot massage machines

[Margo Swift]

I’m caring for someone who has diabetes type 2 and has developed neuropathy in his extremities and has had several episodes of cellulitis in his legs. He’s not very active due to a TIA, has CVD with subsequent decline and some neglect. We would like to get him a foot massage machine but have been told that we have to be careful because some may not be suitable or cause harm. Anybody with experience with these machines and information?

 

[everydayupsanddowns]

These threads, 10 years apart suggest many members over the years have been specifically advised to avoid them by their clinics, podiatrists and diabetes nurses!

https://forum.diabetes.org.uk/boards/threads/foot-massagers.9764/

https://forum.diabetes.org.uk/boards/threads/revitive-food-massager.90114/

 

[Flower]

Hi @Margo Swift

With peripheral neuropathy the nerves supplying sensation and feelings to the feet and toes can become damaged. Awareness of touch/pain/hot/cold in the feet and toes can be reduced, impaired or not present at all so there's a risk of not noticing if something isn't right with the feet. Using something that massages the feet could potentially run the risk of splitting dry skin or causing slight abrasions that if left could cause skin problems along the line such as blisters or ulcers.

I've got peripheral neuropathy with lack of feeling in my feet and have been told not to use something like this by my clinic.