It is estimated that 5% or 1 in 20 people are living with diabetes. In 2024 more than 1.4million people with Diabetes were registered with the National Diabetes Services Scheme. 

Diabetes affects how your body uses sugar for energy. When insulin — the hormone that helps move sugar from your blood into your cells — doesn’t work properly, blood sugar levels rise. Over time, this can lead to serious health problems if not managed well.

The 3 Main Types of Diabetes

• Type 1: An autoimmune condition where the body stops producing insulin. People need daily insulin to survive.
• Type 2: The most common type, where the body doesn’t respond properly to insulin or doesn’t make enough. It’s often linked to lifestyle factors and can be managed with healthy habits, medication, or insulin.
• Gestational: Develops during pregnancy and usually disappears after birth, but increases future risk of Type 2 diabetes.

Possible Health Complications of Unmanaged Diabetes

When diabetes is left untreated or poorly managed, high blood sugar can damage blood vessels and nerves throughout the body, leading to serious complications over time, including:

• Heart disease and stroke — due to damage to blood vessels and circulation.
• Kidney disease — from strain on the kidneys filtering excess glucose.
• Nerve damage (neuropathy) — causing numbness or pain in hands and feet.
• Eye damage (retinopathy) — which can lead to vision loss or blindness.
• Foot problems — from poor circulation and slow-healing wounds.
• Increased risk of infections and delayed healing.

How Movement Therapy Can Help

Exercise is one of the most powerful tools for managing diabetes.It helps regulate blood glucose levels, improves insulin sensitivity, supports weight management, and boosts energy and mood.

Evidence has shown that moderate-intensity aerobic exercise for 30 minutes daily, combined with 2–3 strength training sessions each week, can significantly improve blood sugar control and overall health outcomes for people with diabetes. 

At Movement Therapy, our allied health team supports people living with diabetes to stay active, confident, and healthy 

• Diabetes-trained therapists who understand the specific needs of Diabetes management
• 1:1 and group-based programs that follow diabetes physical activity principles
• Collaborative care with your diabetes management team including but not limited to your GP and podiatrist
• Motivational coaching to keep you engaged, consistent, and hopeful

Your Movement Therapist will consider your journey with diabetes as well as your goals when prescribing a combination of aerobic, strength, and balance exercises to help you feel stronger, move well and move with purpose.

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