Comparison of shoulder pain, disability and range of motion in diabetic and non-diabetic patients with frozen shoulder

Authors: Dr DIVIA PAUL ARICATT, Cyanna Dsouza, Elkanaha Nia Brank, Dr.Ranajit Ranajit Das

DOI: 10.18231/j.ijos.11763.1759215259

Keywords: Frozen shoulder, Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), Range of motion (ROM), Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI), Glycemic control

Abstract: Introduction: Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) is a painful condition marked by limited shoulder range of motion (ROM), commonly affecting individuals aged 40-70, particularly those with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The aim of the study is to assess the outcomes of frozen shoulder among diabetic and non-diabetic population with objectives to measure the diffferences active range of motion (ROM) among T2DM and non-diabetic patients with frozen shoulder and to assess shoulder pain and disability index (SPADI) in frozen shoulder patients with or without T2DM. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 40 participants (20 with T2DM and 20 controls) diagnosed with frozen shoulder. ROM was measured using an electronic goniometer, and the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) was used to assess pain and disability. Fasting blood sugar and HbA1c levels were also evaluated. Results: T2DM patients showed significantly higher SPADI scores (t=5.65, P<0.0001), indicating greater pain and disability. The non-diabetic group demonstrated significantly better ROM in shoulder flexion (t=2.996, P=0.0048), with other movements showing trends in favor of non-diabetics, though not statistically significant. A significant correlation was observed between SPADI scores and HbA1c levels in T2DM patients (r=0.68, p<0.0001). Discussion and Conclusion: This study highlights that frozen shoulder is more severe in diabetic individuals, with greater pain, disability, and restricted ROM. Poor glycemic control, indicated by elevated HbA1c levels, exacerbates these outcomes. Targeted interventions, including exercises to improve shoulder ROM, could help manage the condition and prevent further disability in T2DM patients, ultimately improving their quality of life.