Diabetes type 2: High blood sugar causes arthritis-like symptoms called cheiroarthropathy – Daily Express
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic metabolic condition which affects a person’s body by how they utilise glucose (sugar). This occurs when the body either doesn’t respond normally to insulin or doesn’t produce enough insulin to maintain a normal blood sugar levels. Skin problems are often the fir…….
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic metabolic condition which affects a person’s body by how they utilise glucose (sugar). This occurs when the body either doesn’t respond normally to insulin or doesn’t produce enough insulin to maintain a normal blood sugar levels. Skin problems are often the first visible signs of the condition including a certain arthritis-type warning.
In a study published in the National Library of Health, skin manifestations from diabetes mellitus were analysed.
The study noted: “Limited Joint Mobility (LJM), also known as diabetic cheiroarthropathy, is a relatively common complication of long-standing diabetes mellitus.
“LJM presents with progressive flexed contractures and hindered joint extension, most commonly involving the metacarpophalangeal and interphalangeal joints of the hand.
“The earliest changes often begin in the joints of the fifth finger before then spreading to involve the other joints of the hand.
“Patients may present with an inability to flushly press the palmar surfaces of each of their hands together (“prayer sign”) or against the surface of a table when their forearms are perpendicular to the surface of the table (‘tabletop sign’).
“These changes occur as a result of periarticular enlargement of connective tissue.
“Patients with LJM may also be at increased risk for falls.
“LJM is best managed with improved glycaemic control, as well as regular stretching to maintain and minimize further limitations in joint mobility.”
Other skin manifestation symptoms warning of high blood sugars include:
- Bacterial infections
- Fungal infections
- Diabetic dermopathy
- Digital sclerosis
- Diabetic blisters
- Acanthosis nigricans.
