[Musculoskeletal complications in diabetes mellitus]

Musculoskeletal abnormalities are common and multiple in diabetic patients. They often result from pathologic changes in the microvasculature (microangiopathy), connective tissue, and peripheral nerves related to chronic hyperglycaemia. Their prevalence in patients with diabetes vary depending upon the diagnostic criteria, the study population and is generally correlated with poor glycaemic control and the occurrence of other complications of diabetes. These entities are important to recognize because they often respond to treatment, preventing pain and disability and improving quality of life.