Managing Type 1 Diabetes: Applications for the PT Provider

Course overview

Diabetes mellitus consists of a group of disorders characterized by impaired blood glucose mechanism, of which type 1 diabetes accounts for about 5% of diagnosed cases. Not all types of diabetes are created equal; unfortunately, this distinction can be overlooked by physical therapy providers working with this population. Type 1 and type 2 diabetes vary in etiology, pharmacological management, musculoskeletal manifestations, nutritional goals, susceptibility for hypoglycemia, and responses to physical therapy treatment (outcomes). Because of this, it is essential that PTs be made aware of these distinctions.