Relationship between limited joint mobility syndrome and duration, metabolic control, complications of diabetes as well as effects of the syndrome on quality of life

Aim of this study was to examine relationship between Limited Joint Mobility syndrome (LJM) in patients with type-1 and type-2 diabetes and duration, metabolic control and other complications of diabetes, and to assess effects of the syndrome on hand functions and quality of life. Demographic characteristics, and micro-macrovascular and hand complications were recorded. Level of fasting blood sugar and HbA1c, superficial, pain, temperature, vibration and cortical senses, and deep tendon reflexes were measured. Hand dexterity was evaluated with nine-hole peg test. Grip and pinch strengths were recorded. Functionality of the hand with Hand Functional Index (HFI) and quality of life were evaluated with Short Form 36. Group 1 included 37.8% (n = 130) of 344 hands of 172 patients with LJM according to Rosenbloom classification, group 2 included 44.8% (n = 154) according to the same, and group 3 included 17.4% (n = 60). In the comparison between groups, deterioration correlating with the increase in LJM stage was found in terms of duration of disease, level of fasting blood sugar and HbA1c, frequency of retinopathy and nephropathy, diabetic foot involvement, Dupuytren contracture, presence of CTS, superficial, pain, temperature and cortical senses, DTR, hand dexterity, grip strengths and function of the hand and quality of life except pain. In patients with long-term DM with poor metabolic control, presence of LJM can make contribution to prevent morbidity, mortality and functional disabilities of these patients.