For years, people thought arthritis was just something that happened when you got older. But that view is changing fast in India. Doctors now report a concerning increase in arthritis cases among younger adults in their 20s, 30s, and 40s.
Dr. Ashraf Khan, an orthopaedic surgeon, shares that this trend is closely related to our evolving lifestyles. “Arthritis is no longer just for older folks. We’re now diagnosing it much earlier, and that’s worrying,” he says.
One major issue is how sedentary our lives have become. Many of us spend long hours sitting at desks or scrolling on devices, which weakens the muscles that protect our joints. When these muscles are not strong enough, the joints take the extra strain. Simple activities like walking or climbing stairs can then cause wear and tear, leading to arthritis much earlier in life.
Dr. Vijay Shetty, another orthopaedic expert, has noticed a rise in early arthritis cases, especially in knees and hips among younger patients. He explains, “Sitting for long periods and not exercising enough puts too much strain on the cartilage, speeding up its breakdown.”
Obesity also plays a significant role. As more young people struggle with their weight, the extra pounds stress weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips. Dr. Khan notes that even slight weight gain can lead to serious cartilage damage. Poor diets filled with processed foods and unhealthy fats only make matters worse, as they contribute to inflammation in the body.
Interestingly, while some young people are inactive, others push themselves with intense workouts, often without proper training. This can lead to injuries that may turn into arthritis later on. “Injuries from sports can lead to post-traumatic arthritis in young adults,” Dr. Shetty points out.
Nutritional deficiencies are another hidden factor. Many young Indians lack essential nutrients like vitamin D and calcium, often due to indoor lifestyles. These nutrients are crucial for bone health and joint support. Without them, joints can become more vulnerable to pain and damage.
Genetic factors and autoimmune conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, are also on the rise. Dr. Shetty mentions the increase in hip arthritis linked to post-COVID complications; this is a new concern as we learn more about the long-term effects of the virus.
The impact of early arthritis doesn’t stop at physical pain. Dr. Khan warns that it can lead to chronic discomfort and emotional stress, affecting productivity and overall quality of life. In severe cases, it may lead to joint surgeries much earlier than in the past.
The good news? Early arthritis is mostly preventable. Doctors stress the importance of recognizing persistent joint pain early. Simple lifestyle changes—like regular strength training, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, and having ergonomic workspaces—can delay or even prevent arthritis.
“Arthritis in the young is no longer rare,” Dr. Shetty concludes. “But with awareness and proactive steps, we can still change this trend.”
As India faces these shifting health patterns, taking care of our joints today can help safeguard our health for the future.
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