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Arthritis Make It Tough for Diabetics
(May 9, 2008) - Many people, when they are first diagnosed with diabetes (Read about "Diabetes"), learn to manage the condition with diet and exercise. However, more than half of adults with diagnosed diabetes also have arthritis (Read about "Arthritis & Rheumatic Diseases"), a painful condition that can be a barrier to physical activity, according to a study released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Nationwide, 46.4 million adults have arthritis and 20.6 million adults have diabetes, with nearly 7 in 10 having had diabetes diagnosed by a health professional. Research shows that engaging in joint-friendly activities such as walking (Read about "Walking for Health"), swimming, biking can help manage both conditions.
The study suggests that the presence of arthritis acts as an additional barrier to physical activity among those with diabetes. The study found that 29.8 percent of adults with arthritis and diabetes were inactive, compared with 21.0 percent of people with diabetes alone, 17.3 percent of those with arthritis alone, and 10.9 percent of adults with neither condition.
The study also found that the percentage of adults with diabetes and arthritis who are physically inactive varied among states, ranging from 20.2 percent in California to 46.4 percent in Tennessee.
"People who have arthritis, diabetes or both benefit from being physically active," said Janet Collins, Ph.D., director, CDC's National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. "We know it can be difficult, but regular physical activity helps in many ways. For people with diabetes, physical activity helps control blood glucose and risk factors for complications. For people with arthritis, physical activity reduces pain, and improves function."
Note: Statements and conclusions of study authors that are published here are solely those of the study authors and do not necessarily reflect this hospital's policy or position. This hospital makes no representation or warranty as to their accuracy or reliability.
All Concept Communications material is provided for information only and is neither advice nor a substitute for proper medical care. Consult a qualified healthcare professional who understands your particular history for individual concerns.
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