How Diabetes Affects Bone Health

March 30, 2023

Diabetes is a chronic health condition that affects many bodily systems and processes. It’s important to be aware of the potential complications of diabetes so you can take preventative measures and stay on top of your health. 

There are several common co-occurring conditions with diabetes like kidney disease and heart disease. One of the lesser known conditions, however, is reduced bone health. It’s important to know how diabetes affects your bones, so you can work with your doctor to maintain your long-term health. 

The Link Between Diabetes and Bone Health

Research has shown several possible reasons for the relationship between diabetes and bone health. For example, a way diabetes affects bone health is that higher blood sugar levels can prevent the cells responsible for forming strong bones. 

Specific comorbidities of diabetes also affect the bones. Nerve damage resulting from diabetes can lead to the deterioration of your joints. Kidney disease due to diabetes can also affect the bones by causing calcium loss. 

Since calcium is a key component of strong bones, it is harder for proper bone formation to occur. Finally, some medications used to treat diabetes have a side effect of bone loss.

Bone Problems Associated with Diabetes

The exact relationship between diabetes and bone health is complicated and involves various factors. While the precise reasoning behind how diabetes affects bones might not be clear, the problems are easy to document. They include:

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a bone condition where the bones become weakened and less dense. As a result, the risk of fractures increases. Osteoporosis is prevalent among individuals with type 1 diabetes. 

Osteoarthritis

With osteoarthritis, the joint cartilage begins to break down. This condition can affect any of the joints in the body and is more common in individuals with type 2 diabetes. 

Charcot Joint 

Charcot joint is the term used to describe the deterioration of joints due to diabetes. It most commonly occurs with the feet and causes symptoms, including numbness, tingling, and a loss of sensation. 

Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis 

This condition occurs when tendons and ligaments become hardened. It most commonly affects the spine, leading to pain, stiffness, and a reduced range of motion. It’s thought to be linked with type 2 diabetes, but the relationship is unclear. 

Get Bone Health Support

The Bone and Joint Center of Yuma has experience dealing with a wide range of bone and joint health problems. If you are concerned about one of the bone problems associated with diabetes listed above or would like an expert opinion on the symptoms you’re dealing with, we can help. Reach out today to schedule a consultation.