Diabetes is the most common chronic metabolic disorder affecting about 12% of adults in any given nation.
More than 500 million adults globally are living with diabetes and related complications, including joint pain.
Joint disorders are also quite common, and they affect a large number of adults.
Most people do not realize there is a strong association between diabetes and joint pain.
Statistics show that almost half of all those living with diabetes also suffer from joint disorders. Knowing this is especially important to reduce the risk of joint disorders.
This association between joint pain and diabetes shows that lifestyle measures can prevent joint disorders. Additionally, it also indicates that normalizing metabolism may help manage joint disorders.
There is a need to change the approach to preventing and treating joint disorders. Doctors mainly try to treat joint disorders by prescribing anti-inflammatory drugs, and they pay little attention to normalizing the metabolism in those living with joint disorders.
However, using non-pharmacological means, nutrition therapy, and supplements can help reduce joint pain.
Keep reading to learn more about diabetes and joint pain, including supplements and home remedies to reduce your symptoms.
How can diabetes cause joint pain?
Diabetes is a metabolic disorder that affects how the body processes blood sugar. It occurs when the body fails to produce enough insulin or use insulin effectively, leading to high blood sugar levels.
While diabetes is commonly associated with complications such as cardiovascular disease, kidney damage, and nerve damage, it can also cause joint pain and arthritis. Joint pain in diabetics is not rare.
Arthritis is a general term that refers to joint inflammation. It causes pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced mobility in the affected joints. There are different types of arthritis, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout.
In this section, we will explore how diabetes can cause joint pain, hip pain, and body aches.
Diabetic Neuropathy
Diabetic neuropathy is a type of nerve damage that occurs in people with diabetes. It affects the nerves in the hands and feet, causing numbness, tingling, and pain.
Over time, diabetic neuropathy can also affect other parts of the body, including the joints. This is because the nerves that control the muscles and joints can become damaged, leading to weakness, instability, and joint pain.
In addition, diabetic neuropathy can also affect the sensory nerves in the joints, leading to reduced sensitivity to pain and other sensations.
This can make it difficult for people with diabetes to recognize joint pain and seek treatment, leading to further joint damage.
Inflammation
Inflammation is a natural response of the immune system to injury, infection, or tissue damage. It helps to protect the body by increasing blood flow to the affected area and delivering immune cells to fight off infection or repair the damage.
However, chronic inflammation can lead to tissue damage and contribute to the development of arthritis.
People with diabetes are more likely to experience chronic inflammation due to high blood sugar levels and other metabolic abnormalities.
This can lead to joint pain and swelling, particularly in the hands, wrists, and knees. It may also cause diabetes-related muscle pain.
Obesity
Obesity is a common complication of diabetes, particularly in people with type 2 diabetes. Excess body weight can put extra strain on the joints, particularly the knees, hips, and ankles. Over time, this can lead to joint damage and the development of arthritis.
In addition, obesity can also contribute to inflammation in the body, leading to joint pain and other complications.
Losing weight through diet and exercise can help to reduce joint pain and improve overall health in people with diabetes.
Crystal Deposits
Gout is a type of arthritis that occurs when uric acid crystals accumulate in the joints, causing pain, swelling, and inflammation.
People with diabetes are more likely to develop gout due to metabolic abnormalities that increase the production of uric acid.
Over time, high uric acid levels can lead to crystal deposits in the joints, particularly in the big toe, ankle, and knee.
This can cause severe joint pain and inflammation, making it difficult to move or walk.
Limited Range of Motion
People with diabetes may also experience a limited range of motion in the joints, particularly in the hands, feet, and shoulders.
This can make it difficult to perform daily activities such as dressing, grooming, and cooking. It may also cause diabetes stiff hand syndrome or hand pain.
A limited range of motion can occur due to several factors, including joint stiffness, muscle weakness, and nerve damage. It can also contribute to joint pain and other complications, particularly if it leads to improper use of the joints.
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Treating joint pain
Several supplements and therapies can help reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and improve joint mobility. This article will explore some of the natural supplements that may help treat joint pain in people with diabetes.
1) Curcumin
Curcumin is a natural compound found in turmeric, a spice commonly used in Indian curries. It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it an effective supplement for reducing joint pain and inflammation.
In addition, curcumin works by blocking the production of inflammatory molecules in the body, thereby reducing inflammation and pain. Some studies show that curcumin can be as good as ibuprofen for controlling joint pain.
2) Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance found in the body that helps to lubricate and cushion the joints.
As a result, it helps improve joint mobility and reduce pain. Unfortunately, hyaluronic acid becomes depleted with aging. Therefore, supplementing it may help reduce joint pain or arthritis.
3) Grape Seed Extract
Grape seed extract is a natural antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties. It contains compounds called proanthocyanidins, which help to reduce inflammation and improve joint health.
As a result, grape seed extract supplements can help reduce joint pain and stiffness, particularly in people with osteoarthritis.
4) Vitamin K
Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays an important role in bone health. It helps to regulate calcium metabolism in the body, which is important for maintaining strong bones and preventing fractures.
Vitamin K1 is in leafy green vegetables, while vitamin K2 is in animal products such as eggs and meat. Supplementing vitamin K2 is especially good as its content in food is low.
5) Vitamin D3
Vitamin D is another vital nutrient for bone health. It helps to regulate calcium absorption in the body, which is important for maintaining strong bones and preventing fractures.
Vitamin D3, the most bioavailable form of vitamin D, is especially good for bone and joint health in people with diabetes.
6) Pine Bark
Pine bark extract is a natural supplement that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It contains compounds called proanthocyanidins, which help to reduce inflammation and improve joint health.
Pine bark extract supplements can help reduce joint pain and stiffness, particularly in people with osteoarthritis.
7) White Willow Bark
White willow bark is a natural supplement used for centuries to treat pain and inflammation. It contains a compound called salicin, which is similar to aspirin and has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. Thus, it may be good for treating diabetes-related body aches and pains.
8) Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect the body from oxidative stress. It also plays an important role in collagen synthesis, which is important for maintaining healthy joints. In addition, vitamin C has numerous other health benefits.
9) Tart Cherry Extract
Tart cherry extract is a natural supplement with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It contains anthocyanins, which help reduce inflammation and improve joint health.
Tart cherry extract supplements are especially good for reducing joint stiffness in those living with gout.
10) Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA)
Studies have found that PEA can help alleviate pain and improve joint mobility by reducing the production of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines and interacting with pain-sensing nerves in the joints.
In addition, PEA is a well-tolerated natural compound with no known adverse effects, making it a promising treatment option for people with joint pain.
Ben’s Supplements for Diabetes and Joint Health
Joint Care Pro
The above information is precisely why we formulated our joint health supplement, Joint Care Pro. Joint Care Pro contains 10 natural, proven ingredients that support joint care and joint health.
It is designed to improve mobility and flexibility, reduce joint pain, restore joint strength, protect cartilage and joint tissue, and rebuild strength and density.
Glucose Control
Glucose Control, one of the leading supplements for type 2 diabetes, contains clinically proven, natural ingredients to reverse type 2 diabetes and help stabilize and maintain an optimal blood sugar level.
Clinically formulated, Glucose Control works to regenerate your pancreas, aid weight loss, alleviate diabetic symptoms, prevent oxidative damage and prevent the progression of diabetes.
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How To Reverse Type 2 Diabetes contains complete diabetes diet and exercise plans. This, therefore, makes it the definitive guide to reversing type 2 diabetes and achieving type 2 diabetes remission.
Conclusion
Joint pain is a common complication in people with diabetes, affecting their daily activities and quality of life. Diabetes can cause joint pain through various mechanisms, including nerve damage, inflammation, and metabolic abnormalities.
Therefore, early detection and treatment of joint pain in diabetes are crucial to prevent further damage and disability.
Lifestyle modifications, such as weight management, regular exercise, and a healthy diet, are essential for managing joint pain in diabetes. Additionally, using health supplements have a special role in managing arthritis in diabetes.
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