HealthBeat This month’s feature topics are
Diabetes & Physical Therapy
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November: Diabetes & Physical Therapy
Choosing a physical therapist If you are suffering pain in your back, knees, neck, shoulder or other joints, it’s likely that you could benefit from the services of a physical therapist. A good physical therapist will help you better understand your body and offer advice and guidance on routine exercises and lifestyle changes that could help relieve your pain. People with back pain, for instance, can receive physical therapy to strengthen the core muscles in their back. Not only will they feel better, patients may also emerge from physical therapy with a restored, functional body. If you think you could benefit from physical therapy, first talk to your doctor. Insurance companies often agree about these benefits. Most companies require patients to try physical therapy before turning to expensive surgery to fix the problem. In fact, physical therapy can actually negate the need for surgical treatment. After surgery, physical therapy might serve as part of the aftercare and recovery process. For example, when you have
surgery to repair a rotator cuff, a therapist can play a huge part in a successful recovery. People with degenerative disc problems in their backs will benefit from a physical therapy regimen. It can help ease pressure and pain in their lower back. Normally, a problem like this requires surgery, but physical therapy can help patients regain a full range of motion. Physical therapists also provide the best remedy for other injuries. Someone with a reattached finger will need to practice with a physical therapist to regain feeling and movement. Insurance companies will likely have requirements. You may have to choose a therapy that is in-network, rather than outof-network. Your insurance may also limit the amount of visits they cover. Once you have narrowed your search to a few potential candidates, inquire about the physical therapist’s previous work history. Don’t be afraid of asking directly about their success rates and potential problems. The best physical therapists will provide emotional support as well. Treatment and
Physical Therapy can help you move better!
recovery is very hard work, especially for patients in severe pain. When you feel exhausted, the physical therapist will provide motivation. They will not allow you to make excuses. Instead, a physical therapist will push you to your limits, which will aid in your full recovery. The therapist will inspire you to regain your full independence. This is especially important for elderly people who have problems getting around on their own. It is important that you feel comfortable with whichever physical therapist you choose. This professional may have to
examine sensitive areas of your body to check for swelling or heat. They may also massage your muscles as part of therapy. You should feel at ease and safe during this process. The physical therapist will likely provide you with follow-through exercises at home. It is very important you act on their recommendations. It will help you recover faster. With the assistance of a good physical therapist and your own hard work, you can often make recover fully and enjoy life again.
Our Doctors of Physical Therapy encourage you to try Physical Therapy first to solve your pain and movement challenges.
Cathy Sulentic Morcom, PT, DPT
Jens Matson, DPT, OCS, CMPT
Maria Matson, PT, DPT
Katie Schuelke, PT, DPT
Kelli Karr, PT, DPT
Specialties Include: • Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS) • Orthopedic Manual Therapy • Women’s Health
Dr. Brandie Rainboth, DPT, OCS 305 N. Main Street, Suite 2, Spearfish
605.559.0381 www.spearfishpt.com
• Certified Industrial Medicine • Certified Dry-Needling Services • Functional Movement Assessments
Over 25 Years
OF SERVING THE BLACK HILLS
520 N. Canyon St., Spearfish • 605-642-7996 www.bhphysicaltherapy.com
HealthBeat November: Diabetes & Physical Therapy
Understanding type 1 diabetes Despite the prevalence of diabetes, many people may not be entirely sure what the disease entails. While it’s true that diet and exercise are vital to reducing risk for diabetes, some people are born with the disease. In fact, for individuals with type 1 diabetes, the condition is one they must manage throughout their lives.
What is diabetes?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines diabetes as a longlasting health condition that affects how the body turns food into energy. When a person eats food, much of that food is broken down into glucose and released into the bloodstream. Under normal conditions, when blood sugar levels rise, the pancreas will release insulin, which unlocks the abilities of that blood sugar so the body’s cells can use it for energy. Individuals with diabetes do not make enough insulin or can’t use the insulin as they should. Cells sometimes stop responding to insulin. In each of these instances, too much blood sugar stays in the bloodstream, leading to serious health problems.
Types of diabetes
Doctors have identified three main types of diabetes: Type 1, type 2 and gestational diabetes. About 90 to 95 percent of people with diabetes have type 2, which is when the body doesn’t use insulin well, says the CDC. Typically, a healthy lifestyle or lifestyle changes can help prevent type 2 diabetes. Gestational diabetes is an often temporary form of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy. Type 1 diabetes, though rare, may be most concerning because it is thought to be an autoimmune condition. Also, it must be managed throughout life.
Type 1 diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is a chronic condition that occurs because the pancreas produces little or no insulin. Very often it appears during childhood or adolescence, which is why it was once known as juvenile diabetes. Some experts think the body attacks itself by mistake, resulting in the body’s cessation of insulin production. Type 1 diabetes has no cure. Treatments are designed to manage blood
sugar levels and prevent complications. Over time, type 1 diabetes complications can affect major organs like the eyes, kidneys, nerves, and heart. That is why moderating blood sugar levels is crucial. Most type 1 diabetes patients try to balance their bodies’ glucose and insulin demands through measured diets, testing and daily insulin injections. The American Diabetes Association says diabetes technology continues to evolve, and blood glucose meters and continuous glucose monitoring systems have made testing more convenient and comfortable. CGMs work through a sensor placed on the skin. They monitor and report on glucose in real time and alert when the glucose rises or lowers to certain predetermined limits. They are often preferred by those with type 1 diabetes to reduce finger pricks throughout the day. Furthermore, insulin pumps and other devices are easier to use and less invasive. They can deliver insulin continuously to keep levels even. Type 1 diabetes must be carefully managed to promote good health. With education, most people can live comfortably with diabetes.