Ever heard of a “frozen shoulder”? It’s a painful condition where your shoulder becomes stiff and hard to move, often making even simple tasks a struggle.
Research from Keele University in the UK, led by Brett Paul Dyer, has uncovered a surprising connection: people with diabetes are nearly four times more likely to develop a frozen shoulder than those without the condition.
The research team wanted to understand if having type 1 or type 2 diabetes increases the risk of developing this painful shoulder issue. To do this, they analyzed data from eight previous studies.
Six of these studies, involving 5,388 participants, showed that individuals with diabetes were 3.69 times more likely to experience frozen shoulder. Two additional studies that tracked people over time also supported this connection.
However, the researchers noted a caveat: seven out of the eight studies might have some bias, meaning the findings aren’t entirely conclusive. While the numbers are compelling, they should be interpreted cautiously.
For doctors, this research highlights the importance of being vigilant with diabetic patients. During routine check-ups, it may be helpful to ask if patients are experiencing shoulder pain or stiffness. Early detection of a frozen shoulder can make treatment less painful and more effective.
For people with diabetes, this study serves as a reminder to monitor any new or unusual shoulder pain. While the exact reasons behind the link between diabetes and frozen shoulder remain unclear, staying proactive with regular medical visits and reporting symptoms early can make a big difference.
More research is needed to fully understand why diabetes increases the risk of frozen shoulder and how to prevent it. Until then, managing diabetes effectively and staying alert to any signs of shoulder issues is the best course of action.
This study was published in BMJ Open and is part of a growing body of research exploring the broader impacts of diabetes on overall health.
For instance, other studies suggest that flaxseed oil may benefit people with diabetes, or that certain drugs could prevent kidney failure. As science continues to uncover new insights, staying informed can help individuals take better control of their health.
If you care about diabetes, please read studies about diabetes and vitamin B12, and the right diet for people with type 2 diabetes.
For more health information, please see recent studies about how to eat smart with diabetes, and turmeric and vitamin D: a duo for blood pressure control in diabetic patients.
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