Functional Diabetes Program: Hillsboro Physical Therapy

Are You a Functional Diabetic?

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Has your doctor advised you to exercise to control weight and blood sugar levels? Are you trying to eat healthier? Do you want to improve your functional capacity? Are activities such as walking, getting in/out of bed, going up stairs, or even participating in a particular sport a struggle? Are you wondering how to get started or does it HURT? Does any of this sound familiar?

We Can Help You!

In addition to eating healthier, a proper, pain-free functional exercise program designed just for you will help control and reduce the effects of diabetes.

What to Expect

• Education on the relationship between physical activity and diabetes
• Strength and flexibility testing to identify areas of weakness limiting your function
• Pain-free exercise program designed just for you to enhance and maximize your ability to function
• Screening for sensitive areas inhibiting current participation in activities and suggestions/ treatments to address these issues
• One-on-one consultation with a physical therapist sensitive to your individual metabolic system
• Regular follow ups to ensure long term functional gains

Goals

• Improve cardiovascular and functional capacity measured through standardized testing
• Achieve the recommended levels of exercise suggested by the American Diabetes Association and American College of Sports Medicine

How to Participate

Discuss this option with your doctor and have them provide you with a referral for physical therapy that requests your participation in the “Functional Diabetes Program.” Also have your doctor note any other conditions or problems that may be limiting your functional capacity.

Outline of Program

Initial Evaluation: 1 hour

• Education and evidence-based, standardized test values to assess cardiovascular system
• Blood pressure and resting heart rate
• Blood glucose levels (before and after exercise)
• 3 min step test (or sit to stand) and heart rate
• Perceived exertion
• Discuss short-term goals
• Educate role of exercise in diabetes
• Evaluate and treat musculoskeletal conditions limiting function

Subsequent visits

• Continue monitoring glucose levels and vitals
• Treat musculoskeletal condition while working towards resolving symptoms and improving functional outcomes
• Continue education on role of exercise in diabetes

Goals

• Improvements in evidence-based standardized tests
  • Improvements in blood glucose logs and readings
  • Decreased perceived exertion
  • 3 min step test and heart rate (corresponding to Functional tasks)
• Accountability through follow-up phone calls/emails
• Individualized, safe exercise program based on American Diabetic Association guidelines
• Develop independence with exercise program - patient will have guidelines as to when it is okay to exercise based on blood sugar levels
• Provide support to those who have questions within our scope of practice
• Establish resources and information on community programs in which patients may participate for long-term benefits