Exercise options for persons with diabetic complications

Exercise is a cornerstone in the management of diabetes, yet many persons with diabetes fail to participate in basic physical activity due to secondary diabetic complications. This inactivity can lead to disuse syndrome--a deterioration of functional capacity. Disuse syndrome, coupled with diabetes, can produce significant physiological problems and further disability. This review provides the health educator with information about the pathology and role of exercise for persons with diabetic complications. Examples of exercise to minimize disuse syndrome are given for individuals with peripheral vascular disease, retinopathy, neuropathies, and nephropathy.