Musculoskeletal Disorders in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Prevalence, Pattern, and Association with Diabetes Mellitus Duration and Glycemic Control in a South-east Nigerian Tertiary Hospital: A Comparative Study
Nwankwo Chioma Harriet, Okwara Celestine Chibuzo, Okafor Christian, Ezeala-Adikaibe Birinus, Nwankwo Henry MaduAbstract
Background:
Musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders are increasingly recognized complications of chronic hyperglycemia in persons living with type 2 diabetes mellitus (people living with diabetes [PLWD]) resulting in various forms of disability. Data from South-East Nigeria are limited. This research aimed at comparing the burden, pattern, and associations of MSK disorders in PLWD with nondiabetic controls.
Materials and Methods:
This comparative, cross-sectional research was conducted at a leading tertiary hospital in South-east Nigeria between January 2017 and July 2017. A total of 300 participants, (equally divided into PLWD and controls, matched for age, sex, and body mass index), were recruited. MSK disorders were assessed using the gait, arms, legs, and spine screening tool, and detailed examination. Participants were classified using standard diagnostic criteria. Glycemic control was assessed using glycated hemoglobin. Logistic regression analysis evaluated associations between MSK disorders, duration of diabetes, and glycemic control.
Results:
MSK disorders were significantly more prevalent among type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) participants than comparative nondiabetic group (48.0% vs. 18.0%; odds ratio [OR]: 4.21, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.49–7.11;
Conclusion:
MSK disorders were observed to be common among this cohort of T2DM patients and occurred significantly more frequently than in the nondiabetic individuals. Longer disease duration and poor glycemic control were key predictors. Improving the standards of diabetes care in Nigeria and regular assessment for MSK disorders are advocated.