Hyperglycaemia is an under-appreciated but modifiable risk factor in managing people with type 1 diabetes and fragility fractures.

There are two major musculoskeletal effects of Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) - fragility fractures and impaired fracture union. Fractures in these patients are a significant and limb threatening injury. Traditionally, they have been treated with prolonged immobilisation and as rigid as possible internal fixation. Recently, hyperglycaemia has been recognised as the most significant modifiable risk factor in treating patients with T1DM and fractured limbs. This article reviews this association further and outlines the role of orthopaedic surgeons in minimising orthopaedic-related complications.