Exercise for the Prevention and Management of Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy

Obesity, a condition considered by some to be an American epidemic, has reached a prevalence of almost 1/3 of American adults. A recent report suggested that obesity, caused by poor diet and inactivity, will soon overtake tobacco smoking as the leading cause of preventable death in the United States. Obesity is looked at by health professionals as a very important health-risk, and has been linked so some of the most costly medical problems including type 2 diabetes, hypertension and coronary artery disease. The association between obesity and type 2 diabetes is of particular interest, with an estimated 90% of type 2 diabetics being obese, specifically around the midsection. This increased central obesity has been linked to insulin resistance, arterial stiffening and chronic, low-grade inflammation – all of which are associated with secondary diabetic complications. Regular exercise is an important modality in the prevention and management of obesity and type 2 diabetes – with benefits far exceeding simple weight management. Research has proven exercise to be an effective means of lowering cholesterol levels, decreasing blood pressure and resting heart rate, stimulating insulin receptors and even preventing the onset of diabetic peripheral neuropathy. A thorough explanation of specifically how exercise can prevent and manage diabetic peripheral neuropathy will be explained. References will be made to the latest research, as well as exercise recommendations that healthcare professionals can give to their diabetic and obese patients.