Did you know that arthritis affects around 15 per cent of the people in IndiaIJ Not only this, this percentage is higher than diseases like diabetes, AIDS and cancer. And it is the rise in osteoporosis that is the main reason. Doctors tell you that such is the situation that there is need for a national programme on arthritis. The reality of the arthritis virtually cripples you. The patient attending the OPD are mostly from the moderate and severe category and had they come earlier in the mild stage, it could have been possible to prevent the disease and suffering to quiet an extent. Around 45 per cent of male and 55 per cent of female suffer from it,’’ Dr Shushil Sharma, senior orthopedian and chairman, Arthritis Foundation of India, says who has written a book Bones and Breaks which is an easy to understand guide for those with arthritis.
Causes: Obesity is the main cause. Other causatives are knee injury; hypertension; family history; diabetes and thyroid. It is found out that diabetic patient have tendency to develop severe osteoporosis than a person who does not have diabetes.
Who are vulnerable: It is found out that people with low social economic backgrounds have greater tendency of getting arthritis. Also people with busy occupation that involves physical jobs have the danger of having the condition. People who have weak muscles have high chances of suffering from the disease.
Reason: Studies showed that lack of awareness among the citizens leading to a late diagnosis, seeking medical help only at a severe stage. Comparing to male there is a greater incidence among woman suffering from osteoarthritis.
Prevention: Doctors say that intake of antioxidant like vitamin C, calcium and vitamin D should also be taken adequately. Taking adequate rest. Exercise like, swimming are one of the great exercise to build up muscles around joints. Maintain ideal body weight. Yoga and other alternative therapies have been scientifically documented to complement the use of drugs. Avoid over use and prevent any injury to the joints. Pay attention to what your body tells you. If you feel pain, don’t ignore it. Immediately consult a doctor. Maintain blood sugar under control, regular thyroid treatment is must and blood pressure needs full management and monitoring.
(The writer is Gangreiliu Panmei gives you a lowdown on one of the most common ailments — arthritis)