The Diabetic Walker

Our diabetic physicians tell us that we have todoctor". Your insoles may need to be adjusted or
exercise - get up and move our bodies daily. Theyou may need to add bandages to prevent such
reason is that physical activity improves insulinthings happening to you. Also, your walking path
sensitivity and helps bring blood glucose levels intomay be causing harm to your feet. Are you
the normal range. People with type 2 diabetes canwalking on concrete, rocks, climbing hills? You may
reap the health benefits by engaging in moderatehave to change your walking path. Do you have
exercise as little as two-and-one-half hours perproperly fitted shoes by a specialty shoe store?
week.Are you shoestrings laced correctly?
There are a few safety rules we need toIf you have foot ulcers, etc, you must get your
seriously follow. I am a Type 2 Diabetic and I amdoctors permission to continue your walking
a healthy walker and believe you may be able toexercise program. Proper footwear is essential.
accomplish this exercise activity as well. SomeSome times your foot doctor will order in-soles
diabetics have diminished sensation in their legsfor your walking shoes. People with reduced
and are at risk for developing foot sores. Wesensation in their feet should inspect their feet
need to take extra precautions when we walk.closely for blisters and other potential damage
Did you know that approximately 15% diabeticsbefore and after exercising. By all means, once
will develop a foot ulcer and damage to their feetyour doctor(s) say you can benefit from a
nerves? Before and after you take your walk,walking program, start slow -one step at a time.
take off your shoes and socks and examine yourThis is not a competitive race - it is a race to
feet for redness, sores and bruises. If you noticebenefit your life.
any of these symptoms, contact your "foot