Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a common chronic metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance and relative insulin deficiency . Its global prevalence continues to increase, posing significant challenges to health systems worldwide. In addition to its well-documented association with cardiovascular disease, nephropathy and retinopathy , new research suggests that T2DM may also contribute to the development and progression of rheumatological diseases. Rheumatic symptoms include many diseases that affect the joints, bones, muscles and connective tissues. These conditions, such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and diabetic hand syndrome, often coexist with diabetes, making patient care more complex. The interaction between diabetes and rheumatological diseases appears to be multifaceted and may involve shared pathophysiological mechanisms and overlapping risk factors. For example, a study found that in a group with 96 diabetics, prevalence of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome was about 20%. In a comparison of 200 patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes with 100 controls, the prevalence of hand or shoulder disorders was higher in the patients with diabetes 36 versus 9 percent and correlated with the duration, but not the type, of diabetes. Glycemic control, the cornerstone of diabetes management, plays a key role in mitigating micro and macrovascular complications,including musculoskeletal complications. In a study of 100 randomly selected patients with diabetes in an outpatient clinic, 50 patients were found to have hand abnormalities with more than one abnormality found in 26. It is popularly hypothesised that these musculoskeletal manifestations could be due to accumulation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs). However, its effect on rheumatological outcomes has not been sufficiently studied. Understanding the relationship between glycemic control and rheumatological manifestations can inform a holistic approach to patient care, emphasizing integrated treatment strategies. Addressing these knowledge gaps, this study aims to improve understanding of T2DM comorbidities and help optimize therapeutic interventions and clinical outcomes. Using a systematic approach, valuable information on the complex relationship between T2DM, rheumatological manifestations and glycemic control can be obtained, contributing to better treatment strategies and patient care. Aim is to study the types of musculoskeletal manifestations in patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) and their clinical profile. Objectives 1. To assess the association between glycemic control levels (measured by HbA1c) and the presence/severity of musculoskeletal manifestations. 2. To explore whether specific diabetic treatments (e.g. oral hypoglycemic agents, insulin therapy) and or risk factors (such as age, duration of diabetes, BMI) influence the development or progression of musculoskeletal conditions. |