Managing diabetes can be tackled in a number of different ways. Because people who suffer from this disease are at such a high risk of foot complications, it is important to incorporate foot care techniques into any treatment plan. With summer just around the corner, activities and exercises can be achieved in the comfort of a fresh-air, outdoor environment.
At US Neuropathy Centers, we encourage our diabetic patients to use some form of exercise to help manage their diabetic neuropathy, foot pain, and other debilitating symptoms. We currently have 14 locations across the country, with the hope of opening more US Neuropathy Centers available for all patients suffering with nerve complications.
Combining aerobic activity, strength training, massage, and stretching to produce the best results for blood sugar control and weight loss is one step to implementing physical therapy into your weekly routine. Patients who suffer with nerve pain from diabetes should aim to spend at least 20 minutes each day on some form of physical activity. Talk with your US Neuropathy Centers physician about a personalized diabetes fitness plan that will help you reach your treatment goals.
If you suffer from diabetic neuropathy, burning feet, foot pain, or any other neuropathy symptom, please consider the top 8 reasons to stay fit and manage your diabetes:
- More efficient use of insulin. If you take insulin for your diabetes management, exercise may reduce your ongoing need, as physical activity can positively impact blood sugar control.
- Weight loss. Keeping your weight at a healthy place can relieve excess pressure on your feet, which can be highly sensitive when affected by diabetes.
- Toned muscles. Exercise helps build strong muscles and bones.
- Increased energy. All too often, our patients are discouraged by their diabetes. Exercise can increase your motivation to reduce your diabetic neuropathy symptoms and get on track to a healthier lifestyle.
- Reduced risk for heart attack and stroke. People with diabetes are at risk of develop blood vessel complications and heart disease.
- Better nerve health. Exercise can help maintain balanced blood sugar levels, which can aid in reducing your risk of nerve damage.
- Improved emotional and mental health. A chronic disease like diabetes is stressful at best. Physical fitness and exercise increases endorphins in the body, helping to relieve stress, control depression, and better manage diabetes.
- Better balance. Gait complications and posture are often developed as a result of nerve damage in the legs and feet. Exercise, strength training, and cardio can help improve your balance.
If you or someone you love suffers with diabetic neuropathy, nerve damage, or diabetes, contact the specialists at US Neuropathy Centers for prevention and treatment options.
If you are suffering from neuropathy, please do not hesitate to call us at any of our US Neuropathy Centers locations. With offices in Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Texas, Utah, and Wyoming, our neuropathy experts are easily accessible and here to help.
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.
@US Neuropathy Centers, 2018