Those with diabetes are quite familiar with how it affects their blood sugar, kidneys, eyes, and heart. Unfortunately, many are not aware of how diabetes can affect their joints until they are faced with an orthopedic problem.
It is a lesser-known consequence of diabetes, and at that point, many begin to ask: how can diabetes affect my bone and joint health?
What We Know And Don’t Know
It is clear that diabetes affects bone and joint health, but most researchers don’t understand exactly why. The fact is: when you have diabetes, certain orthopedic problems exist, and you are more likely to suffer from them.
Nerve damage known as diabetic neuropathy, arterial disease, and obesity are factors contributing to an increased risk of joint and bone disorders. Nevertheless, the exact root cause is still not fully understood.
Types Of Bone And Joint Disorders
People with diabetes are twice as likely to develop arthritis. Uncontrolled diabetes over time will affect your muscles and skeleton, leading to joint pain and nerve damage.
Let’s look at some of the bone and joint disorders which can result from diabetes:
Charcot Joint (Neuropathic Arthropathy)
This condition occurs due to nerve damage, and it usually affects the feet. Tingling and numbness are common symptoms accompanied by an entire loss of sensation. The foot can be red, swollen, and sometimes deformed, but there is often surprisingly little pain.
If treatment begins early, our team at Family Medicine Associates can slow the progression of the disease.
Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder causes pain and a very limited range of motion, usually in only one shoulder. Physical therapy and early intervention can help restore mobility.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis causes the protective bone cartilage to break down, leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness in any joint. Those with type 2 diabetes have an increased risk due to obesity more than diabetes itself. Exercise, weight management, physical therapy, pain medications, and sometimes surgery can help relieve the pain.
Osteoporosis
Type 1 diabetes is a significant risk factor for osteoporosis, a condition that leads to weak bones and higher fracture risk. Advanced cases can cause a stooped appearance and loss of height.
Trigger Finger
When you have trigger finger, your fingers or thumb catch or lock when you try to bend them. It is quite common in older patients who have managed diabetes for many years.
Dupuytren’s Contracture
Common in those who have had diabetes for many years, Dupuytren’s contracture is a hand deformity where tissue under the skin thickens, pulling one or more fingers inward toward the palm.
Managing Diabetes Is Key
In order to preserve bone health and protect your joints, it is essential to manage diabetes effectively. The most impactful steps include:
- Minimizing alcohol consumption
- Stopping smoking
- Exercising regularly to strengthen muscles and support joints
- Maintaining a healthy body weight
- Closely monitoring your blood sugar levels
Diabetes Management in Westfield, MA
All joint pain and diabetic complications should be evaluated by a medical professional. Contact Family Medicine Associates at (413) 562-5173 to schedule an appointment if you suspect your joint pain or stiffness is a result of your diabetes.