Physiotherapy and Diabetes – Make a Change Today!
- Diabetes is a serious and complex condition that can be categorised as Type 1 (approx. 10% of all diabetics), Type 2 (most common- accounts for 85% of all diabetics) or gestational diabetes (during pregnancy)
- All types of diabetes require daily care and management
- When an individual is diagnosed with diabetes, their body is unable to maintain healthy levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood. Unhealthy levels of glucose in the blood can lead to short and long term health complications
- Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in working age adults, is the leading cause of kidney failure, increases the risk of heart attacks and stroke by up to 4 times and is a major cause of limb amputations
- It is estimated that 2 million Australians are at high risk of developing Type 2 diabetes
- Currently, there is no cure for diabetes, but if you manage diabetes well you will significantly improve your quality of life.
- Regular exercise plays an important role in keeping people with diabetes healthy. Exercise has been shown to help:
- Insulin to work better which in turn improves your diabetes control
- Control your body weight
- Lower your blood pressure
- Reduce stress and risk of heart disease
Before commencing a regular exercise program it is recommended you see a physiotherapist for guidance and advice on the appropriate types of exercises and a graded transition into exercising