Diabetes is one of the most common chronic conditions in both the school-age youth and adult populations in the United States. Did you know that:

• Approximately 38.4 million Americans are diabetic (11.6% of our population)
• Approximately 352,000 school-age youth are diabetic
• Approximately another 97.6 million people have pre-diabetes (38% of our population). Unfortunately many of these people DO NOT KNOW that they are pre-diabetic
• Diabetics are at a higher risk for COVID-19 complications

Types of Diabetes

Type 1 Diabetes used to be known as Juvenile Diabetes. It is caused by the body attacking its own insulin-producing cells in the pancreas; which renders them unable to produce insulin. Research is ongoing; however it is thought that viruses, heredity, and environmental conditions can lead to the development of Type 1 Diabetes. Type 1 diabetes develops vey suddenly, usually over a period of weeks.

Type 2 Diabetes is a more chronically developing disease in which the body develops insulin resistance and cannot respond efficiently to the insulin that it produces. Over time the body may stop producing insulin as well. This typically develops in adults; however children are now being diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes as well. Risk factors for development include smoking, hypertension, high cholesterol levels, physical activity, and being overweight or obese.

Pre-Diabetes is a condition in which blood sugars are higher than normal. It’s not high enough to be considered type 2 diabetic yet, but without lifestyle changes, adults and children with prediabetes are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes.

It is crucial that people are knowledgeable of the acute symptoms of diabetes, so that they can receive early diagnosis, treatment, and education in lifestyle management.

• Frequent Urination
• Excessive thirst
• Feeling very hungry
• Blurry vision
• Weight loss
• Cuts and sores that do not heal properly

If left untreated, both types of Diabetes can lead to major secondary complications, including vision damage, kidney damage, difficulty managing weight, circulatory changes which can cause heart attacks or strokes, and small blood vessel damage which can cause neurological changes or loss of limbs.

Management of Diabetes

Thankfully, there are many things that we can do to successfully manage diabetes. The earlier one commits to making lifestyle changes—the better the results will be!

• Have a comprehensive physical exam with your primary care physician which includes vital signs, urinalysis, and bloodwork. This exam will set a baseline of your body metrics, and will be used to make your new Lifestyle Plan
• Meet with a nutritionist to make a nutrition plan. Read about the types of foods and diets that are recommended for diabetics.
• Increase your activity level so that you can obtain an optimal weight
• Keep a daily diary to track your progress
• Make a lifelong commitment to good health

How Can Physical Therapy Help?

Getting started on a new exercise routine can be challenging – especially if you have joint pain or low endurance. Physical therapists are experts in developing individualized plans to treat pain, improve range of motion and strength, improve endurance, and improve function. This care is covered by most insurances.

Our skilled therapists welcome the opportunity to work with you on your lifestyle plan to address Diabetes. Physical Therapy can be provided in our offices or thru telehealth services in the comfort of your home. Call now to schedule an appointment!

Originally posted by ACCESS PT