Diabetes Compounded by Arthritis Makes Exercise More Difficult
Exercise is an important part of diabetes management. It lowers blood glucose levels for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. It also helps you keep your weight down, burns fat, and builds muscle, which helps lessen insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes. But, what if you have arthritis on top of diabetes? It isn't easy to exercise when your joints are aching.
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) says that at least 50% of people with diabetes also have arthritis. This was in comparison to 27% of all adults surveyed. This is based on a survey called the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS). It's a nationwide, randomized telephone survey, where participants answer questions about their health.
According to the Arthritis Foundation Self-Help Program, gentle exercise that promotes flexibility, strength and cardiovascular benefits is important for people with arthritis, too. It keeps joints from becoming stiff, strengthens the support structures surrounding the joints, and increases well-being.
Good exercise choices include: swimming, walking, bicycling, yoga and tai chi. As always, check with your physician before starting any exercise program.
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Comments
I have a problem.I have undergone colostomy surgery and therefore swiming is out for me.I play golf and walk 3Kms every morning. Hope this is sufficient exercise.