Promoting safe exercise and foot care for clients with type 2 diabetes.

Exercise is a cornerstone in the management of type 2 diabetes. However, those who have neuropathy as a complication of the disease may have decreased capacities for exercise and a greater need for exercise instruction and monitoring. The author conducted a study with a random sample of elderly adults with type 2 diabetes to examine how the presence of neuropathy affects exercise participation in this group. Among the 427 respondents, those with neuropathy had significantly lower scores for health functioning and for positive beliefs about exercise than those without this complication. They also had significantly higher scores for the receipt of diabetes-specific exercise education and knowledge; perceived barriers to exercise; and exercise-related injuries, including foot injuries. Nurses need to ensure they use a health promotion and prevention approach with their clients with diabetes by promoting safe, appropriate exercise and educating clients about proper foot care.