Bless your heart, back surgery can be tough to recover from. It sounds like for the most part, you are doing well. Let me address your neuropathy before we talk about exercise. There are some other options you can discuss with your doctor regarding easing the nerve pain. Many of my clients with diabetes get relief from applying a cream called capsaicin cream. It is made out of hot peppers and works wonders for many. There are other drugs for nerve pain as well such as Neurontin. With the exercise question, I need to be considerate of the fact with the nerve pain there are balance and fall problems to consider. Your safety is important. Perhaps a stationary bicycle and specific therapeutic exercises you can get from a physical therapy department.Swimming. Use lavender foot baths after your exercises. I would say walking, but you should have someone with you, wear sturdy supportive shoes and take care not to twist your ankle. More specific exercises are available from a physical therapy department for your own safety. Thank you for coming to HCM. Kathy Shattler, MS,RDN