PREVALENCE OF SHOULDER PAIN AND DISABILITY AMONG DIABETIC PATIENTS IN LAHORE

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus, as defined by the World Health Organization, is a metabolic disorder characterized by elevated blood glucose levels. Individuals with diabetes are more prone to developing musculoskeletal complications compared to the general population, with shoulder pain being one of the most frequently reported issues. The etiology of shoulder pain in diabetes is multifactorial and may involve degeneration of joint cartilage, excessive weight loss, family history of diabetes, obesity, and physical inactivity. The present study aimed to determine the prevalence of shoulder pain and disability among diabetic patients in Lahore. This cross-sectional observational study was conducted over a six-month period. Data were collected using the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI), which consists of 13 questions. A non-probability convenience sampling technique was employed. Participants were recruited from the Diabetic Institute of Pakistan, Mayo Hospital, Dilawar Hussain Foundation (DHF) Diabetes Management Center, and Family Care Medical & Diabetes Center, Lahore. A total of 174 diabetic patients participated, the majority being female (n = 99; 56.9%), with a mean age above 40 years. The results revealed that 44 patients (25%) had mild pain and disability, 18 (10%) had moderate pain and disability, 16 (9%) had severe pain and disability, 29 (17%) had very severe pain and disability, and 66 (38%) experienced extreme pain with severe disability. The overall mean score was 3.30 ± 1.667 (mean ± SD). This study demonstrates that shoulder pain is a prevalent complaint among female diabetic patients, with a significant proportion experiencing extreme pain and severe disability. The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions, early screening, and preventive strategies to address musculoskeletal health in diabetic populations.