There is a definite correlation between arthritis and diabetes. Studies have shown there is double the number of diabetics with arthritis (52%) as compared to the general population (27%). Arthritis affects 52% of people with diabetes in the 45-64 age group and 62% of those 65 and older- significantly higher than in these populations as a whole. Surprisingly, arthritis affects about 28% of individuals with diabetes who are 18-44 years old. This is 2 1/2 times the rate for that age group in the general population.
Consequently, individuals with diabetes alone are more physically active than those who have diabetes and arthritis. Despite this, exercise is most important in both conditions- to control weight and blood gugar levels for diabetes and to maintain mobility and control the pain of arthritis. Those individuals with both diseases, unfortunately, are reluctant to get as involved as is needed with exercise because of painful, still joints and the fear of further injuring these joints.
Annette Karnash
