According to the CDC, 1 in every 10 Americans has some form of Diabetes (DM). Millions of Americans live with and manage this disease on a daily basis. Many individuals with Diabetes present with joint and musculoskeletal complaints
There is an increased risk of different bone and joint disorders associated with Diabetes.
1) Diabetic hand syndrome/ Diabetic cheiroarthropathy-A disorder characterized by waxy snd thickened skin causing limited finger motion. Individuals can’t fully extend their fingers or press their palms together in a flat position.
2) Charcot joint/Neuropathic arthropathy- A complication of chronic sand severe DM where there is complete joint destruction and nerve damage usually affecting the feet.
3) Frozen shoulder- Severe restriction in range of motion of shoulder movement as well as pain and stiffness. Aggressive PT can help preserve function.
4) Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH)- Usually associated with Type 2 and causes hardening of tendons and ligaments in the spine causing neck and back pain & stiffness.
5) Dupuytren’s contracture or deformity- There is connective tissue scarring of the palm and fingers resulting in one or more fingers bending towards the palm.
DM 2 is also seen more often with gout in conjunction with obesity and metabolic syndrome and DM1 has increased risk of osteoporosis.
It is important to have Diabetes controlled with lifestyle changes and medication!