May I suggest cross-posting on the Accessible Gardening - GardenWeb - for people with physical limitations and is meant to cover everything from raised gardens to easy-to-use tools.

Hi,

No diabetes - rather unknown cause neuropathy in feet (and some in other places).

My sympathies about the impact it will have on your teaching.

No advice but will share what I've found that helps with the neuropathy - though I don't really have pain --- goes from great discomfort (enough to disturb sleep) to barely noticeable tingling.

My neuro endorsed going barefoot, when I asked if my heavy shoes could be a cause. For me, I loved going barefoot as a child and have felt guilty about it as a 'full grown adult'. The other thing is really weird -these acupressure mats. I don't get the Running Man Game Show thing at all. So far I keep them under the coffee table (where I am sitting) and press my feet down.

Best wishes (teaching is very active work).

Hi Scott, I was diagnosed four years ago. Lost quite a bit of weight when it was undiagnosed. "Skin and bones" was how friends referred to me.

I'm on Metformin which I understand is the standard med. It's difficult at first for gastrointestinal. No other side effects. Curious why you wouldn't be taking it.

Diet and exercise for sure. I bike at least five miles a day even in the winter. I just wear the right clothing for whatever weather.

I'd suggest getting fitted for the recommended shoes for diabetics. I don't have foot issues but I take no chances with ill fitting shoes.

Best wishes. No reason a teacher can't sit on a tall stool for at least some of the time.