World Arthritis Day 2024: Arthritis, a condition characterised by joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation, has become a silent epidemic worldwide. It is the leading cause of pain and disability across the globe affecting mostly adults aged 50 years or more. From hands and wrists to knees, hips, lower backs, and shoulders, arthritis can strike any joint in the body. The most common arthritis symptoms and causes that one can look out for are:

Symptoms Of Arthritis

  • Swelling or inflammation
  • Skin discoloration
  • Sensitivity to touch around any joint
  • Joint pain
  • Reduced movement or motion
  • Heat or warmth is felt near the joints

In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. Paramjit Singh Chahal, Senior Consultant - Orthopedics & Joint Replacement Surgery, Manipal Hospital Patiala explained that arthritis is more than just a single disease it encompasses different types, with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis being the most common. While it typically affects older adults, it can strike at any age, and the discomfort it brings can have a significant impact on daily activities. Many factors, such as genetics and ageing, contribute to the development of arthritis, but certain lifestyle choices can make it worse. 

Habits That Worsen Arthritis

Neglecting Balanced Diet

Consuming an inflammatory diet high in processed foods, sugars, and unhealthy fats can worsen arthritis by promoting inflammation in the body. One should consume fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and nuts, which can help reduce joint pain and inflammation. Staying hydrated and incorporating foods with anti-inflammatory properties, like turmeric, garlic, and green leafy vegetables, can further support joint health and overall well-being.

Not Engaging In Any Physical Activities

Regular exercise is essential for maintaining joint mobility and strengthening the muscles around the joints, which helps reduce the stress on them. A sedentary lifestyle can lead to stiffness, increased pain, and muscle weakness, making arthritis symptoms even harder to manage.

Not Keeping Check On Your Weight

weight-management-in-arthritis

Habits That Worsen Arthritis (Image Credits: Canva)

Gaining excessive weight or obesity is bad for the joints. This can lead to joint degradation due to excessive pressure on the joints. That's why it is advised to maintain normal weight so that the joints are not overloaded.

You Should Stop Ignoring The Pain

One of the worst habits that can worsen arthritis and can cause lifelong issues is to ignore the pain in the initial stages and even after the diagnosis. Many people just prefer to work along with the pain thinking that it will go away on its own. You should always consult a doctor if the pain is moderate to severe. 

Poor Posture

Maintaining poor posture, whether sitting, standing, or sleeping, can worsen arthritis symptoms by increasing the stress placed on certain joints. The improper alignment can contribute to joint damage and exacerbate inflammation. 

If arthritis pain becomes severe and begins to interfere with daily activities, surgeries like joint replacement (arthroplasty), joint fusion (arthrodesis), or minimally invasive procedures like arthroscopy can provide relief by reducing pain, restoring mobility, and preventing further joint damage. 

ALSO READ: Hip Arthritis: Expert Explains Different Types And Their Impact On General Health

ALSO READ: World Arthritis Day 2024: Doctor Explains Causes And Management Of Arthritis In Young Adults