Type 2 Diabetes is very prevalent in Australia, with almost 1 million Australian adults reported to have the condition in 2017-18 according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics. (And this doesn’t include cases that are unreported!). Type 2 Diabetes is also a serious condition and requires ongoing management, otherwise, it can have a significant impact on health and quality of life, with nearly 1.1 million hospitalisations recorded in 2017-18.

How do we manage Type 2 Diabetes? To answer this question, we must first understand what it is. 

What is Type 2 Diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic condition distinguished by high blood glucose (sugar) levels over an extended period of time (that is, not just after eating). For a person without diabetes, their blood glucose levels will usually lie between 4.0-5.5mmols/L throughout the day. However, for someone with diabetes their fasting blood glucose reading will be above 7mmol/L on two separate tests.

The hormone in our body called Insulin regulates these blood glucose levels. In Type 2 Diabetes, the body is unable to use insulin effectively to regulate the blood glucose levels (known as ‘insulin resistance’). If not managed over time, this can eventually lead to the pancreas being unable to produce enough insulin. This differs to Type 1 Diabetes, which is an autoimmune condition where the cells that produce insulin in the pancreas are affected.

Type 2 Diabetes: Symptoms

The main symptoms of diabetes include:

• Increased thirst / dry mouth.
• Frequent urination.
• Fatigue / weakness.
• Headaches.
• Blurred vision.
• Frequent hunger.

Type 2 Diabetes: how to manage

Fortunately, many of the risk factors for Type 2 Diabetes are controllable and therefore can be effectively managed and/or prevented through lifestyle modifications, such as:

• Regular physical activity.
• Maintaining healthy weight range.
• Maintaining a healthy diet.
• Managing blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
• Not smoking.

And the good thing is you don’t have to do this alone. At UniquePhysio, we have an experienced team of physiotherapists, exercise physiologists and dietitian, who are more than happy to help you. When you come to see us, we will assess your condition and physical needs, and formulate a treatment plan with you to achieve your goals. This may include (but is not limited to) helping you understand your condition better, developing an exercise program that’s just the right level for you, or providing tips on maintaining a healthy diet.

What’s this Diabetes Program I’ve been hearing about?

Those with Type 2 Diabetes are eligible for the Type 2 Diabetes Program with a referral from their GP, which includes an initial assessment plus 8 x 1hr group sessions funded by Medicare. The program is led by our exercise physiologists and are designed to help you take control and optimise your health, particularly when managing diabetes. These sessions are run as classes with up to 8 participants, which can also be a fun and great way to interact with others with diabetes.

Got more questions about the program or Type 2 Diabetes management? Contact or book with us today and we can help you!