Musculoskeletal disorders in type 1 diabetes

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSKDs) should be considered as a complication of diabetes, especially of type 1 diabetes (T1D). They are frequent and occur in about one third of people living with T1D (and in > 50% of those with a duration of diabetes over 20 years). MSKDs are frequently diagnosed in young patients, they are often multiple and can affect the daily management of T1D. Moreover, MSKDs are often associated with other complications of T1D, especially diabetic retinopathy which should be screened for; MSKDs may also be associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. The ongoing study “Suivi en France de patients avec un diabète de type 1” (SFDT1) will provide data on the potential association of MSKDs with an increase in cardiovascular risk. It is very important that diabetologists and orthopedic surgeons work together: because of their pathogenesis, T1D-associated MSKDs often require surgical treatment that should be performed by an orthopedic surgeon with specific skills such as being able to operate without tourniquet.