Comparison of shoulder pain, disability and range of motion in diabetic and non-diabetic patients with frozen shoulder

Background: Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is a painful musculoskeletal condition characterized by restricted shoulder movement. It commonly affects individuals aged 40–70 years and is more prevalent among those with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This study aimed to compare shoulder pain, disability, and range of motion (ROM) in patients with frozen shoulder, with and without T2DM.Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 40 clinically diagnosed frozen shoulder patients, divided into two groups: 20 with T2DM and 20 without. Active ROM was measured using an electronic goniometer. Pain and disability were assessed using the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI). Additionally, fasting blood glucose and HbA1c levels were recorded for all participants.Results: T2DM patients had significantly higher SPADI scores (t = 5.65, p < 0.0001), indicating greater levels of shoulder pain and functional limitation. Shoulder flexion was significantly better in the non-diabetic group (t = 2.996, p = 0.0048). While other shoulder movements also showed improved ROM in the non-diabetic group, the differences were not statistically significant. The findings suggest a possible link between poor glycemic control and increased shoulder morbidity.Conclusion: Targeted interventions, including exercises to improve ROM, could help manage the condition and prevent further disability in T2DM patients, ultimately improving quality of life.