This study aimed to identify the specific subdomains of LS that are most affected by diabetes using GLFS-25.
This cross-sectional study included 192 individuals; 99 with and 93 without diabetes. Physical function was assessed using knee extension force (KEF), KEF-to-body weight ratio (%KEF), and handgrip strength. The participants completed GLFS-25, which measures pain, mobility, and functional abilities. We compared physical function, comorbidity status, and Locomo-25 scores between the diabetic and non-diabetic groups. GLFS-25 was scored according to the classification by Seichi et al. (2012) for Q01–04 (body pain), Q05–07 (movement-related difficulty), Q08–11, Q14 (usual care), Q12, Q13, Q15–23 (social activities), and Q24–25 (cognitive). For statistical analysis, the Mann–Whitney U and Chi-square tests were used, and significance level was set at p0.05.
The basic profiles (mean/SD) of the diabetes group were as follows; duration of diabetes (years) (15.4/10.0), HbA1c (%) (7.2/0.8), and plasma glucose (mg/dL) (154.2/50.7). Additionally, the distribution of microvascular complications in the diabetic group was as follows; neuropathy (yes, 41; no, 49; unknown, nine), retinopathy (Normal, 74; Simple diabetic retinopathy, 16; Preproliferative diabetic retinopathy, 3; Proliferative diabetic retinopathy, 1; unknown, 5), and nephropathy (stages 1/2/3/4, 70/22/5/0; unknown, two).
Compared with the non-diabetic group, the diabetic group exhibited poorer exercise habits, greater knee pain, and higher dyslipidemia rates. Body pain (Q01–04), social activities (Q12, Q13, Q15–17, Q21, and Q23), and cognitive function (Q24) had statistically significant differences between both groups. These findings indicate that diabetes significantly worsens pain- and mobility-related function in older adults, particularly in activities that require physical exertion and social participation.
This study showed that diabetes negatively affects key aspects of locomotive function, particularly pain, mobility, and social participation. These results provide an important foundation for the development of preventive strategies to slow the progression of LS in individuals with diabetes. Tailored interventions, such as structured physical activity and programs promoting social engagement, may reduce the risk of further functional decline.
These findings emphasize the need for individualized interventions that target pain management, enhanced mobility, and increased social participation among individuals with diabetes. Early intervention is crucial to prevent further decline in locomotive function and improve the quality of life in older adults with diabetes.
diabetes
locomotive syndrome
