DIABETES MANAGEMENT
HOW PHYSICAL THERAPY HELPS WITH DIABETES
Wait, physical therapy can help those who suffer from diabetes? When you think of diabetes, things like blood sugar, finger pricks, and endocrinologists come to mind. But believe it or not, physical therapy is commonly used to help lower blood sugar levels. Diabetes is a condition in which the body is not able to produce enough of the hormone insulin, so blood glucose (sugar) becomes 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.
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, exercise impacts blood glucose levels and insulin sensitivity in many ways. 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 simulated 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. Many treatments and exercises can 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.
SUDOKU
L
Inspired by TastesBetterFromScratch.com
INGREDIENTS
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6 egg yolks 1/2 cup sugar
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1 pinch salt
1/4 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup heavy whipping cream
Cinnamon and whipped cream, for garnish
2 cups milk
1/2 tsp nutmeg
DIRECTIONS
1. In a medium bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar until light and creamy. Set aside. 2. In a saucepan over medium heat, stir together the cream, milk, nutmeg, and salt. Bring to a simmer. 3. Add a spoonful of the milk mixture to the egg mixture. Whisk vigorously and repeat, one spoonful at a time. 4. When most of the milk is whisked in, add the egg mixture to the saucepan. 5. Whisk until the liquid thickens slightly or reaches 160 F. Remove from heat and add vanilla extract. 6. Pour the eggnog into a glass container and cover. Refrigerate. 7. When the eggnog has thickened, pour it into glasses, garnish, and enjoy!
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