Impairments seen in people with
the diagnosis of diabetes:

• Reduced muscle mass

• Reduced mobility

• Greater risk for falls

• Pain in muscles and joints

• Numbness in extremities

• Ulcers or sores on feet

• Pain and limping with walking

What can a physical therapist do for patients with diabetes?

• Use special tests to check sensation in feet

• Help decrease cramping pain during walking

• Evaluate and care for skin ulcers and sores that are slow to heal

• Improve walking ability by adapting shoes and orthotics

• Show your patient how to protect feet if they have lost sensation

• Recommend shoe wear or assistive device if needed.

Program parameters:

• 2 supervised visits per week for 12 weeks

• 60 minute sessions

Programming benefits:

• Improve glucose control

• Fight complications such as loss of movement

• Reduce risk of falls

• Improve functional mobility

Expected outcomes:

• Increased gait velocity

• Improved balance

• Increased muscle strength

• Increased joint mobility

• Decreased fear of falling

• Improved glucose control

• Discharge to independent management

Diabetes is a growing health issue that affects approximately 24 million adults and children in the United States.

A physical therapist can work with your patient to design a program that helps control glucose and fight complications associated with diabetes such as loss of movement.

A recent study found that adding high-force strength training to an aerobic program can offer significant advantages. A physical therapist will develop a customized program for each individual based on their needs.

If you need help with Diabetes, call us for more information, or ask your doctor for a referral today!