Many people are familiar with the more common complications of diabetes, such as nerve damage, kidney issues, or vision problems. But there’s a lesser-known condition affecting the hands that can make it difficult to move the fingers, grip objects, or even perform everyday tasks with ease. This stiffness doesn’t appear overnight and can often be mistaken for arthritis or simple muscle fatigue.
Known as diabetic cheiroarthropathy, this complication is linked to long-term blood sugar control issues and can affect both comfort and mobility. While it is not life-threatening, its gradual onset and subtle symptoms mean it often goes undiagnosed until it’s too late. Understanding why it happens and how to manage it is key to preserving hand function for those living with diabetes.
What causes diabetic cheiroarthropathy, and how is it connected to poor blood sugar control?
Certified diabetes educator Kanikka Malhotra tells indianexpress.com, “In some people with long-term diabetes, the skin on the hands can become tight, thick, and less flexible — this is called diabetic cheiroarthropathy. High blood sugar over time changes the way collagen (a protein in your skin and joints) behaves. It becomes stiff and doesn’t stretch well. Poor blood sugar control also damages tiny blood vessels and nerves, exacerbating the problem. This can lead to trouble moving the fingers fully. Maintaining a healthy blood sugar range is the best way to help prevent or slow down this process.”
Distinguishing between diabetic cheiroarthropathy and other joint or hand conditions, like arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome
With diabetic cheiroarthropathy, the main signs are painless stiffness, trouble straightening the fingers, and skin on the back of the hand that looks tight and slightly waxy.
“A simple check is the ‘prayer sign’ — if you can’t press your palms flat together, it might be this condition. Arthritis usually causes pain, swelling, and warmth in the joints. Carpal tunnel causes tingling, numbness, or pain in certain fingers, often waking you at night. If you’re unsure, your doctor can do tests to tell them apart,” explains Malhotra.
Regular aerobic, resistance, and balance exercises (walking, yoga, light weights) also strengthen muscles, improve circulation, and help regulate blood sugars. (Source: Freepik)
What treatment or lifestyle measures can help improve mobility and prevent further stiffness in the hands?
Maintaining healthy blood sugar is central to preventing stiffness in your hands if you have diabetes. Malhotra mentions, “A smart, diabetes-friendly nutrition plan includes whole grains, high-fiber vegetables, beans, lean protein (such as fish or skinless chicken), and healthy fats from nuts and seeds. Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and refined grains — these raise blood sugar and increase inflammation. Vitamins like D, and supplements such as omega-3s or alpha-lipoic acid, may help further support joint and nerve health.”
Alongside nutrition, the expert adds that daily hand stretches and exercises (like gently opening and closing your fist, finger lifts, or ‘prayer sign’ stretch) can preserve flexibility. Regular aerobic, resistance, and balance exercises (walking, yoga, light weights) also strengthen muscles, improve circulation, and help regulate blood sugars. “Meeting with a physical or occupational therapist for custom hand routines can be very effective. Quitting smoking and keeping a healthy weight also protects your joints. With early action and these lifestyle choices, you can manage mobility and help prevent further stiffness in your hands,” concludes Malhotra.
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