Periarthrosis of the shoulder associated with diabetes mellitus

Among the protean complications of diabetes mellitus are contractures of the joints and periarticular soft tissue. These complications have not been well described in the literature. This syndrome of "limited joint mobility," has been reported as occurring in young, insulin-dependent diabetics, with primary involvement of the small joints of the hands. In older diabetics, similar changes have been described with additional contractures developing in the large joints of the upper extremities. This report presents clinical findings occurring in five older diabetics with primary contractures of the shoulder. Theoretical considerations are also discussed regarding the neurophysiology of this entity as well as the current treatment options.