Keep your bones and joints healthy and strong

Arthritis is a common problem in India that causes inflammation and pain in joints. It causes regular, unstable pain that becomes intolerable at times. The problem of inflamed and disoriented joints makes the patient helpless and dependent on someone for support. World Arthritis Day is celebrated on October 12 worldwide that aims to create awareness of this problem.

There are more than 100 types of Arthritis, the most common ones being Rheumatoid Arthritis, Osteoarthritis, Ankylosing Spondylitis and Psoriatic Arthritis. In India alone, 18 crore people are its victims. Osteoarthritis has been named as one of the 10 most disabling diseases among patients. World Health Organisation (WHO) predicts that in the coming 10 years, these many people will be unable to hold onto their full time jobs. People aged above 65 are the ones more likely to develop Arthritis than others. However, 30% of all arthritis sufferers are people aged below 65. Some of these have just crossed their teenage. On finding out the symptoms of Arthritis, Padmashree Dr. Ashok Rajgopal, Chairman, Fortis

Bone & Joint Institute shows the way:

 Painful joints

 Swelling around the joints

 Stiffness after some activity

 Cracking of joints

 Decreased range of motion

Highlighting more on Osteoarthritis, Dr. Rajgopal shares that Osteoarthritis develops when the cartilage wears away and bone-bone friction occurs. This condition causes severe pain and may lead to excess weight. The condition advances more and women than men. Knee and hip joints are at higher stake of developing Osteoarthritis.

In the case of Rheumatoid Arthritis and Ankylosing Spondylitis, the body & self immune system destroys the cartilage of bone. Unlike in Osteoarthritis where hip and knee were affected, Rheumatoid arthritis affects all the joints of the body. Exercising and movement are the most recommended options of healing in Arthritis patients. Movement of the joint reduces inflammation and shows long term improvement and relief. Dr. I Rajendra Vara Prasad, Senior Rheumatologist, Yashoda Hospitals, Somajiguda, says that Arthritis can even lead to spinal cord diseases, which forms the backbone of the body. In 80 to 85% cases, back pain and other back related issues had a direct link with Arthritis. The problem of back pain is especially accelerating in the youth of the country it is time we take the step and create awareness among the masses.

Arthritis can be cured and the problem can be relieved on taking some simple precautions and measures. Taking a good supplement of Calcium and Vitamin D can help in making the bones strong and immune system healthy. Other than that, regular walking, exercising and care for bones and joint can go a long way in keeping Arthritis at bay.