A sedentary lifestyle and poor eating habits has made diabetes one of the most common health concerns of present times and the number of people affected by it is growing by leaps and bounds. Diabetics fall prey to eye, kidney and heart disorders much earlier than a normal person, if the condition is not properly managed.
“People with diabetes are at an increased risk of various bone and joint disorders that are related to the nerve damage, arterial disease and obesity that is associated with diabetes”.
If you have diabetes, you are at increased risk of various bone and joint disorders. Certain factors, such as nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy), arterial disease and obesity, may contribute to these problems - but often the cause isn't clear.
Osteoporosis is a critical condition of the bones that diabetics should be aware of. This condition leads to weak bones and it also makes one succumb to bone fractures. Though there is no clear reason for it there is a higher risk of osteoporosis among those afflicted with type 1 diabetes.
Charcot joint, also called neuropathic arthropathy, occurs when a joint deteriorates because of nerve damage — a common complication of diabetes. It is seen mainly in the feet and is associated with numbness and loss of sensation in the affected joints. The joints become unstable, swollen or deformed.
Osteoarthritis is a joint disorder that is associated with the breakdown of joint cartilage. Those with type 2 diabetes have an increased risk of osteoarthritis that may be related to the obesity that is also a risk factor for type 2 diabetes.
Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis or DISH, is a hardening of tendons and ligaments that commonly affects the spine. It is probably due to insulin or insulin-like growth factors that promote new bone growth.
Frozen shoulder is a condition associated with shoulder pain and restricted motion in the shoulder joint. Diabetes is a common risk factor for frozen shoulder.
Keeping Your Bones Healthy
There are factors such as advancing age, low BMI, smoking and an excessive drinking habit that makes one at risk for osteoporosis which in turn increases the risk of fracture. Also, if there is a lack of vitamin D and calcium during your childhood and teenage years, it can lead to weak bones in the later phases of your life. A sedentary lifestyle may also lead to brittle bones. However, leading a healthy and active lifestyle with regular exercise (aerobic and weight training) and ensuring a diet rich in calcium rich foods, can help one maintain healthy bones.
Source:-- Apollo health news.
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