An infarction is the death of one’s tissue due to blocked blood flow. Most commonly used along side the word ‘myocardial,’ referring to blocked blood flow to the heart, resulting in a heart attack. Infarctions are not exclusive to the heart and can affect other muscles in the body.

Diabetics are at a higher risk for complications of the arteries such as, peripheral artery disease which allows build up to form in walls of the arteries making it more difficult for blood to pass through. The stoppage of blood flow to any muscle in the body can cause pain and swelling.

In a study, issued by the American Diabetes Association, diabetic muscle infarction (DMI) is more likely to occur in women with the median age of 61. Conclusions from the study went on to say: “DMI affects the lower limbs with abrupt onset of pain and local swelling. Diagnosis is made by biopsy, but the characteristic features in magnetic resonance imaging [MRI] are very typical.”

Easing muscle pain starts with the control of your diabetes, in particular, the levels of glucose in your blood. DMI is a relatively new diagnosis and very little research has been conducted and expert advice is limited. The Canadian Medical Association recommends “…supportive treatments, such as bed rest, analgesics and, if required, a cautious use of anti-inflammatory medications’ to treat DMI. You can be in control of your diabetes and diminish your risk for complications like muscle infarction. Lifestyle changes like diet and exercise can significantly decrease these risks.

Other steps include:

• Control of glucose levels;
• Keeping your blood pressure at a safe level;
• Keeping Cholesterol levels down;
• Getting regular physical activity as permitted by your doctor;
• Eating a heart-healthy diet low in saturated fat, cholesterol and salt; and
• And if you smoke, quit. If you don't smoke, don't start.

Diabetics know what they need to do on a daily basis to keep complications at bay. It may be in your best interest to visit a doctor if any of the symptoms of muscle infarction are familiar to your case. Pain and swelling of the limbs are the most prevalent symptoms and it would be worth your time and comfort to investigate.

Sources:
Canadian Medical Association
http://www.cmaj.ca/cgi/content/full/180/1/72

American Diabetes Assocation
http://care.diabetesjournals.org/content/26/1/211.full