The Prevalence of Neuromuscular and Musculoskeletal Complications among Diabetics

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a global health concern that significantly impacts the quality of life due to its systemic and wide-ranging complications. Among these, neuromuscular and musculoskeletal disorders are increasingly recognized for their debilitating effects on individuals with chronic diabetes, contributing to decreased mobility, pain, and overall functional impairment. Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of neuromuscular and musculoskeletal complications among chronic diabetic patients in Gujranwala and to elucidate the nature and frequency of these complications. Methods: This observational cross-sectional study employed a non-probability convenient sampling technique to recruit 260 chronic diabetic patients from the District Head Quarters (DHQ) in Gujranwala. Inclusion criteria comprised both genders with a minimum diabetes duration of 10 years and the presence of chronic diabetes alongside neuromuscular and musculoskeletal complications. Exclusion criteria included patients with systemic diseases or any form of disability unrelated to diabetes. Data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire, focusing on demographic information and the presence of musculoskeletal disorders. SPSS version 25 was utilized for data analysis, presenting findings through descriptive statistics and bar charts. Results: Among the participants, 63.08% were female and 36.92% male, with a significant portion (68.46%) having a positive family history of diabetes mellitus. The most prevalent musculoskeletal complications observed were adhesive capsulitis (77.31%), fibromyalgia and osteoarthritis (each affecting 60% of the patients), and flexor tenosynovitis (57.31%). Other noted complications included carpal tunnel syndrome, Dupuytren’s contracture, and peripheral neuropathies, highlighting a diverse range of musculoskeletal issues affecting the diabetic population. Conclusion: The study underscores a high prevalence of neuromuscular and musculoskeletal complications among chronic diabetic patients, with adhesive capsulitis, fibromyalgia, and osteoarthritis being the most common. These findings highlight the need for healthcare professionals to adopt a multidisciplinary approach in managing diabetic patients, considering the significant impact of these complications on their quality of life.