Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders Among People Living With Type 2 Diabetes in the Western Region of Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

INTRODUCTION

Diabetes is a multi-systemic disease allowing for various symptoms, including musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders, and the aim was to assess the prevalence of MSK disorders among 539 type 2 diabetic patients in the Western region of Saudi Arabia.

METHODS

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in the Western region of Saudi Arabia. Data were collected through an online questionnaire that assessed patients' demographics, medical histories, and frequency of general and particular MSK problems associated with diabetes mellitus.

RESULTS

The median age of the patients was 30 years, with 335 (62.2%) females. The median BMI was 24.8 kg/m², and 118 (21.9%) were obese. Most patients had diabetes for 1-10 years (366, 67.9%), and 208 (38.6%) had uncontrolled HbA1c levels (>7%). Only 162 (30.1%) reported receiving education regarding the relationship between diabetes and MSK health. Macrovascular complications were observed in 50 patients (9.3%), most commonly peripheral arterial disease (26, 52%), while 129 (23.9%) had other diabetes-related complications. Overall, 172 patients (31.9%) had at least one MSK disorder, including trigger finger (22, 4.1%), osteoarthritis (90, 16.7%), carpal tunnel syndrome (50, 9.3%), diabetic cheiroarthropathy (50, 9.3%), shoulder capsulitis (50, 9.3%), limited joint mobility (43; 8%), Charcot joint (16; 3%), Dupuytren's contracture (36; 6.7%), diabetic myopathy (31; 5.8%), and diabetic osteoporosis or other diabetes-related bone disorders (75, 13.9%). Multivariate logistic regression identified the presence of diabetes-related complications and diabetic foot as significant risk factors for MSK disorders.

CONCLUSION

Early diagnosis of MSK disorders in diabetic patients is crucial for timely and effective therapy.