Managing Orthopedic Risks in Diabetic PatientsIntroduction -Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder that is characterized by high levels ofblood glucose due to insufficiency in the hormone insulin produced by pancreas. This conditionaffects almost every organ system of our body but one aspect that is often overlooked is itsimpact on the body’s musculoskeletal system. Below mentioned are a few orthopedic risks thata patient suffering from diabetes faces and also its management strategy.
- Diabetic neuropathy – Any individual who has long-standing diabetes suffers from
nerve damage especially in the nerves of the body’s extremities (also known as diabetic
neuropathy), particularly affecting the feet. There is a loss of sensation and this may lead
to higher risk of unnoticed injuries and high risk of infections. This can sometimes
worsen into charcot foot, where nerve damage progresses into bone fractures as well as
dislocations. To manage this condition, regular monitoring of blood glucose levels and
keeping it in target range is crucial along with proper foot care and a good footwear
selection. Advanced cases may require surgery. - Frozen shoulder – This condition is also known as adhesive capsulitis and is
characterized by stiffness and limited movement of the shoulder joint. Diabetics having
recurrent hyperglycemia are at a higher risk of developing this condition due to
increased inflammation in the body, especially in the joints. Treatment strategies for
frozen shoulders include physiotherapy, anti-inflammatory drugs or injections of
corticosteroids. - Osteoporosis – Individuals with type one diabetes are at a higher risk of developing
osteoporosis, a condition characterized by mineral loss from the bones and the main
causative factor behind this is recurrent hyperglycemia. Also lower levels of insulin
hormone further aggravates the condition as this hormone is needed in bone formation.
Such individuals are at a higher risk of developing fractures in the hips, spines or wrists.
For preventing osteoporosis, consume a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D and practice
weight-bearing exercises. - Osteoarthritis – Diabetics are more susceptible to getting osteoarthritis and this usually
occurs in the weight-bearing joints of the body such as knees, hips or lower back due to
high blood sugar levels that damage the bony cartilage. This condition is further
worsened by obesity by putting more physical strain on the body joints. Management
strategies should include lifestyle modifications such as maintaining a healthy weight
through regular physical activity and a wholesome diet. Severe joint degeneration may
even require joint replacement surgery or corticosteroid injectables. - Tendinitis – The diabetics are at a higher risk of getting tendinitis due to hyperglycemia
in them. This condition causes structural changes in collagen and tendons, causing
inflammation and high risk of injury. To treat this condition, adequate rest, physiotherapy
and anti-inflammatory drugs is recommended.
Bottom line –
Diabetics are at a heightened risk of developing orthopedic conditions. On this World Diabetes
Day, let us focus on the global prevalence of these conditions and a need for early detection
and treatment of orthopedic issues. This can be highly achieved by maintaining the blood sugar
levels in the target range.
