The Diabetes Rehabilitation Course

The Diabetes Rehabilitation course is designed to provide an in-depth understanding of the pathology, complications, assessment principles, and rehabilitation of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Over the course of 3 days, participants will gain the knowledge and skills needed to effectively assess diabetes patients, identify risks and complications, design customized treatment protocols, and apply evidence-based rehabilitation principles in clinical practice.

Day 1 focuses on building a strong foundation of diabetes knowledge. We will explore the different types of diabetes, common signs and symptoms, as well as associated short and long term complications—including issues like diabetic neuropathy and foot disease. A solid understanding of the disease pathology and manifestations will inform the assessment and rehabilitation principles covered later in the course.

On Day 2, we dive into diabetes assessment for rehabilitation. Participants will learn a systematic approach for evaluating diabetes patients both in isolation and in the context of various underlying complications or comorbidities. We will also cover common musculoskeletal and neuromuscular complications, and their impact on rehabilitation programs. Participants will gain skills for assessing diabetic neuropathy and implementing neuropathy management strategies. The day will conclude with a session on diabetic foot assessment and management.

The final day of the course synthesizes the previous knowledge into practical rehabilitation application. We will explore protocol design, using FITT principles to optimize exercise prescription for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Sessions will focus on isolated versus multimorbidity treatment approaches, medication interactions, modifying programs based on severity, and alternative therapies. Participants will gain hands-on experience applying these principles through case studies. 

Throughout the 3 days, participants will gain the expertise needed to enhance diabetic patient care. The course provides both theoretical knowledge and clinical skills that professionals can immediately apply in practice to improve health outcomes and quality of life for those living with diabetes.