Objective: To study the prevalence of musculoskeletal manifestations among the primary hypothyroid patients of North India.

Method: 200 primary hypothyroid patients of age group 20-80 years were selected from Rheumatology clinic, S.N. Medical College and Hospital, Agra during the period of one year August 2016 to August 2017, a detailed clinical history and physical examination was done. Various investigations and diagnostic criteria were used during study.

Result:  83% (166) were female and 17% (34) were male. The mean age of the respondents (n=200) was 52.35 ± 12.36 years. Mean body weight was 69.21± 11.896. Mean duration of drug intake 2.818 years. Prevalence of osteoarthritis in this study came out to be maximum (55%) followed by RA (24%) then SLE (12.5%), Fibromyalgia (2.5%), ankylosing spondylitis (2%), MCTD(1.5%), systemic sclerosis and Sjogren’s syndrome observed in 1% study population, other musculoskeletal manifestations were Myalgia (71.5%), Stiffness and Muscle cramp (80%), Arthralgia (60%), Adhesive capsulitis (25%), Carpel tunnel syndrome (8%), Trigger finger  (7%), Tarsal tunnel syndrome (2%), Dupuytren’s contracture (5%), non inflammatory back pain (30%)

Conclusion: Various musculoskeletal manifestations are commonly associated with hypothyroidism. Osteoarthritis being most common followed by rheumatoid arthritis. Early detection of hypothyroidism in patients suffering from rheumatic disease and vice versa and its prompt treatment can improve the clinical outcome of disease.

Keywords: Primary Hypothyroidism, Musculoskeletal, Osteoarthritis, Rheumatic diseases

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Dr Anjana Pandey

Associate Professor, P.G. Department of Medicine,

Sarojini Naidu Medical College Agra-282002 Uttar Pradesh, INDIA

Mobile: +9568187137, Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.