Hiking sticks in mountaineering

Hiking with DiabetesRisks and Benefits

BACKGROUND

Exercise is highly beneficial for persons with diabetes. Similar to many other patients, those with diabetes may be reluctant to exercise given a lack of motivation and proper instruction regarding an exercise prescription. In general, medical providers are poorly equipped to develop an exercise prescription and furnish motivation. Attempts to find activities that not only provide effective aerobic challenges but also are enjoyable to participate in are fraught with difficulty. Hiking as a potential option for a safe and enjoyable activity is discussed, including the possible downsides.

METHODS

Multiple publications were reviewed using key words.

RESULTS

A review of the literature uncovered limited publications or controlled trials that discussed the use of hiking per se as an activity for the management of diabetes. Newer studies reviewing weightbearing exercise and diabetic polyneuropathy and those discussing the advantages of trekking poles for balance and proprioception are cited in support of the recommendation for hiking as an activity for those with diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

Exercise has been shown to substantially benefit individuals with diabetes, but convincing patients with diabetes to exercise is daunting. Hiking, unlike other, more tedious exercise programs, may be an exercise option that persons with diabetes might find enjoyable. Hiking may encourage balance training and reduced ground reaction forces. These benefits may be augmented by trekking poles, which may likewise counter the concerns of the uneven surfaces that present challenges to the hiker with diabetes.

Alpine climbing: injuries and illness

Alpine climbing is a sport whose participants are at risk for a variety of injuries and illnesses. Climbers are venturing into the mountains and attempting routes with ever-increasing difficulty, and it is important to understand the injury and illness concerns of alpine climbers better. Alpine climbers are prone to injuries common to traditional mountaineers and more specialized sport rock climbers. Falls while climbing represent one of the more common causes of serious injury, although acute and chronic musculoskeletal injuries of the hands and extremities are also frequent afflictions. Alpine climbers are at risk for injuries and illness because of the mountain environment where they participate in their sport. Proper preparation for the cold is imperative to prevent frostbite and hypothermia. Worsening symptoms of headache or respiratory symptoms should always alert the alpine climber to possible altitude illness. Understanding the injuries common to the sport can allow providers to deliver the best medical care.