A study on diabetes and back pain

People with diabetes are 35% more likely to have lower back pain and 24% more neck pain than people without diabetes, according to a study conducted by researchers at the University of Sydney.

Their findings, based on meta-analyzes of studies evaluating the links between diabetes and the results of back or neck pain, were published today in PLOS ONE.

Most adults have low back pain in their lifetime and about half suffer at some point. Diabetes is a chronic disease that is increasingly prevalent; An estimated 382 million people have type 2 diabetes, the most common form of this metabolic disease.

The review did not allow for sufficient links to establish a cause-and-effect relationship between diabetes and back or neck pain, said Senior Associate Professor Manuela Ferreira of the Journal. # 39; Institute of Bone and Joint Research of the University. But the results deserve to be examined further by the association.

"Diabetes and lower back and neck pain seem to be linked, we can not say how, but these results suggest that further research on the link is warranted," said Associate Professor Ferreira.

"Type 2 diabetes and low back pain both have a close relationship with obesity and lack of physical activity, so a logical progression of this research might be to look at these factors more closely. Our analysis adds to the evidence that weight control and physical activity play a fundamental role in maintaining health. "

The paper also revealed that diabetes medications may affect pain, possibly through its effect on blood glucose, and that this link should also be investigated. He also recommended that health professionals consider screening for unknown diabetes in patients seeking care for neck or lower back pain.

"Pain in the neck and back, as well as diabetes, is afflicting more and more people," said co-author and associate, associate professor Paulo Ferreira of the Faculty of Health Sciences. "It is worthwhile to commit more resources to study their reciprocal relationships.It may be that modifying diabetes treatment interventions may reduce the incidence of back pain, and vice versa."

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University of Sydney