The musculoskeletal complications of diabetes.

The musculoskeletal system can be affected by diabetes in a number of ways. Some of the musculoskeletal conditions seen in diabetics are the same as those found in the general (nondiabetic) population, whereas others are unique to diabetes. The hands, shoulders, feet, muscles, and skeleton are some of the frequently affected sites. Although there is often no "cure" for these problems, there are treatments available that can significantly improve function and quality of life for diabetics with rheumatologic problems.