Healthy Management for Diabetes

According to the 2017 National Diabetes Fact Sheet, 30.3 million children and adults in the US have been diagnosed with diabetes –  9.4% of the US population. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form and is recognized as a major global health concern.

Risk Factors and Complications for Diabetes

Some modifiable risk factors for Type 2 diabetes include obesity, hypertension, poor nutrition, and increased body mass index (BMI). The increasing prevalence of these risk factors is contributing to the increased incidence of diabetes.

Diabetes can cause serious complications, and chronic diabetes can result in increased mortality. Major complications include stroke, peripheral vascular disease, cardiovascular disease, retinopahty, nepropathy, and neuropathy. Long-term complications develop gradually and can be fatal.

With increased complications, deaths resulting from diabetes are on rise. It was the seventh leading cause of death in 2007. Common symptoms include increased urination, increased thirst, increased hunger and unexplained weight loss. Other symptoms include increased fatigue, tingling or numbness in the hands or feet, blurred vision, and increased time for healing of cuts.

Screening and Treatment for Diabetes

A thorough health screening should focus on assessing your body mass index, vision, sensations in your hands and feet, and foot ulcers. Your health provider should also thoroughly screen your history and level of physical activity. Timely screenings help identify those at high risk.

Exercise and diet are two interventions that should be considered prior to pharmacological management. A plethora of research supports lifestyle modifications to manage diabetes.

Exercising regularly has remarkable benefits. Staying active helps in controlling diabetes and in reducing risks for hypertension, stroke and high cholesterol. It helps maintain good bone density and lowers the risks of osteoporosis. Some people have a difficult time finding an exercise program they enjoy. Finding a meaningful activity is critical, as is having short-term goals that are simple and realistic.

Physical therapy can help people with diabetes participate in safe, effective exercise programs to improve their ability to move, perform daily activities, reduce pain, and possibly help lower their blood glucose levels. Schedule a complimentary session with us here.