Diabetes can affect the musculoskeletal system in many ways. As the name implies, the musculoskeletal system involve the muscles and bones. Although complications are mostly seen in patients with a long history of type 2 diabetes, you should still stay vigilant.

It’s time you learn how to self-examine. (Of course, share any abnormalities with your physician before attempting a treatment.)

#1 – Hands

Diabetes can cause stiff hand syndrome or limited joint mobility syndrome. This problem can be spotted between 8% to 50% of type 1 diabetics and some type 2 diabetics as well. The skin of their fingers are often thick and tight with limited joint movement.

Trigger finger is also another potential complication of the hands. Patients present with a catching or locking associated with pain in the affected finger.

Dupuytren’s contracture is due to the thickening, shortening, and fibrosis of the underlying structure in the palm. It may result in flexion contractures (finger is permanently flexed, angled toward the palm). This complication has been reported in 16% to 42% of diabetics.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is seen in 20% of diabetics and is due to nerve entrapment. Patients report burning and tingling sensation with sensory loss in the middle to little finger.

#2 – Shoulders

About 20% of the people with diabetes experience frozen shoulder. Patients present with shoulder stiffness and decreased ability to move.

Shoulder-hand syndrome is characterized by a pain from the shoulder to the hand in the affected limb.

#3 – Feet

Diabetic osteoarthropathy includes destructive joint changes in the involved joints of the feet. The loss of sensation leads to unnoticed trauma to the joints, resulting in degenerative changes. Less than 1% of the diabetics are affected by this disease.

#4 – Muscles

Diabetic muscle infarction can occur in diabetics with long-term poorly controlled blood glucose. Patients often complain of pain and swelling in the affected muscles.

#5 – Skeleton

Although not a clear risk factor for osteoarthritis, both large and small joint osteoarthritis is found to be increased in type 2 diabetics.

 

Due to the effect of diabetes on the musculoskeletal system, it is vital that diabetics keep their blood glucose well-controlled to either delay or prevent complications derived from this disease. These complications can be treatable, allowing patients to enjoy a higher quality of life and increasing their independence in routine activities.

[expand title=”References“]

Kim RP, Edelman SV, Kim DD. Musculoskeletal complications of diabetes mellitus. Clinical Diabetes. 2001; 19(3):132-135.

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