MRI EVALUATION OF ROTATOR CUFF BETWEEN DIABETIC AND NON-DIABETIC PATIENTS WITH SHOULDER PAIN

Abstract

Background: The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint and enable its movement. Rotator cuff disorders, including tendon tears, degeneration, and fatty infiltration, are common causes of shoulder pain, particularly among diabetic individuals. Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a key risk factor, as chronic hyperglycemia and metabolic dysfunction can accelerate tendon degeneration and impair healing. The rising prevalence of DM and its impact on musculoskeletal health underscores the need for early detection and targeted interventions.

Objective: To evaluate the structural differences of the rotator cuff on MRI between diabetic and non-diabetic patients with shoulder pain and to assess the prevalence and severity of tendon pathology.

Methodology: This cross-sectional comparative study was conducted at [Obaid Noor Hospital, Mianwali.  A total of 52 participants with shoulder pain were enrolled using convenient sampling. After obtaining informed consent, demographic data, clinical history, and risk factors were recorded. MRI of the affected shoulder was performed using standard protocols. Images were analyzed by two experienced radiologists to assess tendon tears, tendon degeneration, muscle atrophy, and fatty infiltration. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 21.

Results: The study included 80 participants, with a majority being male (63.7%) and middle- aged (51–60 years, 42.5%). Most participants were diabetic (63.7%) and experienced right-shoulder pain (65.0%), with pain duration commonly lasting four months (25.0%). MRI findings were abnormal in 65.0% of participants, with 65.0% showing rotator cufftears, predominantly partial tears, and Grades II and IV being most frequent. Associated findings were present in 53.8%, highlighting the overall high prevalence of shoulder pathology in the study population.

Conclusion: The study concludes that diabetes significantly increases the prevalence and severity of rotator cuff pathology. Early screening using MRI, along with targeted preventive and therapeutic strategies, is essential to reduce functional impairment and improve shoulder outcomes in diabetic patients.