Diabetes patients less likely to exercise due to arthritis

Recent reports have stated that over half of adults with diabetes in the US have also got arthritis, which has led to the unsurprising conclusion that diabetes patients are less likely to partake in exercise.

It’s the ultimate Catch 22 situation, as diabetes sufferers could well use exercise to improve their condition and general health. Exercise is also know to stop the onset of diabetes, as it can help with weight control.

According to Bloomberg.com, about 30% of people with both conditions were found to be inactive - a higher figure than people who suffered with just one of the conditions. Only 11% of patients with neither condition were inactive.

Chad Helmick, the author of the study, said: “Regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight can help alleviate the pain and disability that often accompany arthritis.”

The study by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that regular activity can reduce the risk of heart disease and nerve damage for those with diabetes, and arthritis patients can benefit from strengthened joints.

However, arthritis patients in particular should take care not to stress their joints and only partake in moderate exercise such as walking and swimming.

Source: Bloomberg.com