Pune: There is a rise in joint pain among young adults, including those who have recovered from Covid-19. A large number of youngsters are complaining of bone and joint problems. It is imperative to take care of joints by exercising daily, eating a well-balanced diet, and maintaining optimum weight.
Dr Vishwajeet Chavan, orthopedic surgeon, Apollo Spectra Hospital, Pune said “A majority of elder people seek treatment for joint pain and discomfort every year. Currently, young adults in their 20s, 30s, and 40s are also complaining of joint pain due to working from home and eating high fat and sugar diet, along with those who have recovered from Covid-19. The symptoms of it are swollen, red and tender joints, constant pain and fever. 15-20 per cent young patients suffering from joint pain at their early 40 age.”
Explaining the cause of joint pain, Dr Ashish Suryavanshi, orthopedic surgeon, Lokmanya Hospital said, “Over a period of time, when the bones deteriorate, it can invite several conditions like rheumatoid arthritis (an autoimmune condition) and osteoporosis (a common bone disease wherein the body loses bone, makes little bone, or both), tendinitis, or inflammation of the tendon, an infection of the bone or joint, overuse of a joint, cancer, or rickets due to low vitamin D can lead to joint pain. The percentage of young adults getting joint pain is increasing day by day. Women are more commonly get affected than men. It is seen that 2-3 out of the patients who come to the OPD every day are suffering from joint pain.”
Commenting further, Dr Chavan said “To manage joint pain, opt for a healthy diet consisting of fresh vegetables that are good for the bones, dairy products, nuts, seeds, and fish. Take enough sunlight every day, and keep monitoring your vitamin D levels. Exercise to maintain an optimum weight. Stretch before exercising to avoid injuries.”
“If your pain is mild, take medication as prescribed by the doctor, take a warm bath, physiotherapy and rest. Some people may also require joint replacement surgery due to their deteriorating condition,” concluded Dr Suryavashi.