Type 2 Diabetes – The Role of Physiotherapy

Here at Compass Physio we see a lot of clients with Diabetes and in particular Type 2 diabetes. Diabetes is a manageable condition but can predispose people to other issues. Simple lifestyle checks like following a healthy lifestyle – eating well, keeping weight under control and completing at least 150 minutes of exercise per week – can help to reduce a person’s risk of developing type 2 diabetes.    These practices can also help a person who already has diabetes improve their diagnosis and quality of life.  

Quick facts

There are around 250,000 people in Ireland living with Diabetes.

Over 40% of people in Ireland are at increased risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.

It is possible to reverse the effects of diabetes through diet, weight loss and exercise.

How does Diabetes affect your body?

Diabetes is a disease which affects the glucose (blood sugar) in our body. Glucose is our main energy source and comes from the food we eat. A hormone made by the pancreas, helps to convert the sugars in food to the glucose energy we need to function. This hormone called is called insulin. In diabetes, something goes wrong at this point and we do not produce the right insulin required to convert the food to energy.

Early Signs and Symptoms of Diabetes

Increased thirst Frequent need to urinate Fatigue Blurred vision Poor healing of cuts and wounds Tingling and numbness in the hands or feet Balance difficulties Patches of dark skin Itching and frequent yeast infections  

Here at Compass Physio we are huge advocates of regular consistent exercise be that a walk, cycle or swim, once you are on the move

How exercise can help fight diabetes

Exercises helps to lower blood pressure Exercise will improve body metabolism and weight control Strength train at least twice a week will improve blood sugar control Energy levels will improve with regular exercise Our moods improve when we exercise Regular workouts have been shown to improve sleep quantity and quality

How Can Physiotherapy Help?

If you are finding it hard to complete regular exercises due to pain, fatigue or simply time schedules speak to us at Compass Physio.

Exercise is for everybody. At Compass physio we will complete a full physical assessment and will help identify any possible underlying causes that may limit your exercise regime.

Our chartered physiotherapists will help you to build strength and strategies which will help tackle any problem.

At Compass physio we will help you succeed and reach your goals.

To find out how Compass Physio can help, call 046 954 9456 (this number covers all clinics), click here to book online.

You can also email any questions to info@compassphysio.ie

Paddy Mulligan – MISCP Chartered Physiotherapist Compass Physio