DIABETES MANAGEMENT
HOW PHYSICAL THERAPY HELPS WITH DIABETES
Wait, physical therapy can help those who suffer from diabetes? When you think of diabetes, blood sugar, finger pricks, and endocrinologists likely come to mind. But believe it or not, physical therapy is commonly used to help lower blood sugar levels. Diabetes is a condition where the body is unable to produce enough insulin, and blood glucose (sugar) levels become too high. Physical therapists are experts of movement who aim to help the body function, live, and move better. So, how do the two work together? Diabetes doesn’t have a cure, but there are ways to manage it. Physical therapy can help assist the body in regulating the disease by reducing your chances of developing health issues related to diabetes. LAUGH THERAPY
Physical therapists will assist you in engaging in activities and treatments to complement natural movement. The activities will begin with “passive” motions that the physical therapist will perform to gently get your joints moving and then will progress to “active” movements, which you will do while guided by the therapist. You will learn conventional strengthening exercises to incorporate into your routine, because exercise is key to properly managing diabetes. In fact, there are many ways that exercise impacts blood glucose levels and insulin sensitivity. The cells in your body can better absorb glucose both during and after physical activity. Additionally, when your body engages in exercise, a non-insulin mechanism is stimulated that aids your muscles in contracting when
certain movements are performed. Your blood cells can then utilize glucose for energy, even without insulin.
Physical therapists also aid in stretching tight muscles, improving walking ability, and helping patients regain endurance. This can also manage chronic pain experienced by diabetics. There are many treatments and exercises to protect painful areas and make them less sensitive. Improperly managed diabetes can certainly wreak havoc on your body, but with proper treatment and the help of a physical therapist, you can better manage the condition to have a healthier and happier lifestyle.
Inspired by BBCGoodFood.com
INGREDIENTS •
6 1/2 cups potatoes, cut into large chunks
• • • • • •
4 garlic cloves, sliced
1 sprig rosemary
• • • • •
2 tbsp olive oil 2 onions, sliced
15-oz can diced tomatoes plus liquid
1/2 cup water
1 tbsp flour
1 1/2 cups frozen peas
2 large carrots, cut into rounds 1/2 cauliflower, broken into florets
Milk, to desired consistency
DIRECTIONS 1. In a pot, boil potatoes until tender.
2. In a pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened. Stir in flour and cook for 2 minutes. Add carrots, cauliflower, garlic, and rosemary and stir until softened. 3. Pour tomatoes into mix and add water. Cover and let simmer for 10 minutes, then remove lid and cook for 15 minutes until thickened. Stir in peas and simmer. 4. Drain and mash potatoes. Stir in milk to desired consistency. 5. Preheat oven to 375 F. Spoon hot vegetable mix into pie dish, then top with mashed potatoes. Bake until top is golden brown. 3 (858) 675-1133
Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator