Arthritis keeps diabetics from exercising

ATLANTA, May 8 (UPI) -- More than half of adults with diabetes also have arthritis, which can make it difficult for them to get the exercise they need, a U.S. study said.

A study released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in its Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report said nationwide that 46 million adults have arthritis and 21 million adults have diabetes, with nearly 7 in 10 having had diabetes diagnosed by a health professional.

Research shows that engaging in joint-friendly activities such as walking, swimming, biking can help manage both conditions.

However, the researchers analyzed data on the prevalence of physical inactivity among adults and suggest that the presence of arthritis acts as an additional barrier to physical activity among those with diabetes.

The study found that 29.8 percent of adults with arthritis and diabetes were inactive, compared with 21 percent of people with diabetes alone, 17.3 percent of those with arthritis alone, and 10.9 percent of adults with neither condition.

The study also found that the percentage of adults with diabetes and arthritis who are physically inactive varied among states, ranging from 20.2 percent in California to 46.4 percent in Tennessee.