Knee replacement surgery is a transformative solution for individuals suffering from chronic knee pain and limited mobility. It is often recommended when conservative treatments—such as medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications—no longer provide relief. But what leads to this stage?

Common Causes of Severe Knee Pain

1. Osteoarthritis (OA) – The Most Common Cause

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that results from the gradual breakdown of cartilage. As the protective cartilage wears away, bones rub against each other, leading to severe pain, stiffness, and swelling. This condition is the primary reason why many people opt for knee replacement surgery.

2. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) – Chronic Joint Inflammation

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes the immune system to attack the joints, leading to persistent inflammation and thickening of the synovial membrane. Over time, this results in joint damage, pain, and deformity, often making knee replacement necessary.

3. Post-Traumatic Arthritis – Arthritis from Old Injuries

Severe knee injuries—such as fractures, ligament tears, or meniscus damage—can lead to long-term joint damage. Over the years, these injuries can cause stiffness, chronic pain, and joint deterioration, eventually requiring surgical intervention.

4. Avascular Necrosis (Osteonecrosis) – Loss of Blood Supply to the Knee

When the blood supply to the knee joint is compromised, the bone tissue weakens and collapses. This condition leads to severe pain and joint instability, making knee replacement the best option for restoring function.

5. Knee Deformities – Structural Issues Leading to Pain

Congenital or acquired knee deformities—such as bowlegs or knock knees—can put excessive strain on the joint. Over time, this leads to pain, dysfunction, and the need for corrective surgery like knee replacement.

Who Is at Risk?

Certain factors increase the likelihood of developing severe knee problems:

✔️ Age: Most common in people over 50, but younger individuals with severe joint damage may also require surgery.
✔️ Obesity: Excess weight puts strain on the knees, accelerating cartilage wear.
✔️ Previous Knee Injuries: Past fractures, ligament tears, or meniscus damage increase arthritis risk.
✔️ Genetics: A family history of osteoarthritis makes joint problems more likely.
✔️ High-Impact Activities: Repetitive stress from sports or demanding jobs can speed up joint degeneration.
✔️ Chronic Inflammation: Conditions like lupus or metabolic disorders can damage knee cartilage over time.

When Should You Consider Knee Replacement?

🔹 Severe pain that affects daily activities, including walking, climbing stairs, or even resting.
🔹 Limited mobility and difficulty performing basic tasks.
🔹 Deformity of the knee that worsens over time.
🔹 Non-surgical treatments (medications, therapy) no longer provide relief.

Many people delay surgery due to fear, only to realize later that they could have avoided years of unnecessary pain by choosing surgery earlier.

Success Story: How Knee Replacement Transformed a Patient’s Life

Meet Mrs. Linda (Name Changed), a 62-Year-Old Retired Teacher

For over a decade, Linda struggled with severe osteoarthritis in both knees. Simple activities—like walking short distances, climbing stairs, or standing for long periods—became unbearable. Despite trying various treatments, her condition worsened, and she relied heavily on pain medications.

The Decision for Knee Replacement

After exhausting all other treatment options, Linda consulted Dr. Arun Kumar, Senior Orthopedic Consultant & Sports Medicine Specialist at Deeksha Hospital, Yelahanka. Given her severe pain and reduced mobility, she decided to undergo total knee replacement in both knees.

Surgery & Recovery

🔹 Surgery: Performed successfully under Dr. Arun Kumar’s expertise.
🔹 Walking: She took her first steps on Day 1 after surgery, discharged on 3 rd day, start cooking on 10 th day, claimed stairs in 2 weeks, actively involved in her daughters marriage after 3 months
🔹 6 months Later: Linda describes her knee replacement as a life-changing experience.
🔹 Today: She walks comfortably, is independent, and no longer relies on painkillers.

Her journey is proof that knee replacement restores not just mobility, but also confidence and quality of life!

Why Choose Knee Replacement?

✅ Proven & Safe Surgery – Millions of successful cases worldwide.
✅ Fast Recovery – Walk within hours and resume daily activities within weeks.
✅ Long-Term Relief – Modern implants last longer 15-20 years.
✅ Improved Quality of Life – No more pain, stiffness, or movement restrictions.

If knee pain is stopping you from enjoying life, don’t wait! Modern knee replacement surgery is safe, effective, and life-changing.

📞 Book a Consultation Today
🔹 Dr. Arun Kumar M.S.
🔹 Senior Orthopedic Consultant & Sports Medicine Specialist
🔹 Deeksha Hospital, Yelahanka, Bengaluru
📍 Address: 387/347, B.B. Road, Next to Post Office, Yelahanka Old Town, Bengaluru – 560064
📞 Call: [8050010851/ 080 28561228]

The post Why Do People Need Knee Replacement surgery? appeared first on Health Vision.

Significance of World Physiotherapy Day – World PT Day
Everyone values the ability to function as independently as possible during everyday life. Patients and fitness enthusiasts typically seek out physical therapy services for physical impairments associated with movement disorders caused by injury, disease, or health-related conditions that interfere with their ability to perform or pursue any number of activities that are necessary or important to them.

Of the many procedures employed by healthcare, therapeutic exercise takes its place as one of the key elements that lies at the centre of programs designed to improve or restore an individual’s function or to prevent dysfunction.

The multidimensional aspects of physical function encompass the diverse yet interrelated areas of performance, such as Improving balance, Cardiopulmonary endurance, Developing co-ordination, Progressing flexibility, Improving mobility, Muscle performance, Neuromuscular control, Postural control, Postural stability and Equilibrium

This year, 2023, the World Physiotherapy Day Theme is “Prevention and Management of Osteoarthritis”. Every year, the World Physiotherapy puts up a specific theme on debilitating health issues concerned with movement. Although this year’s theme is a continuation of yesteryear’s theme, the present year’s theme focuses on inflammatory arthritis, including axial spondylarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

With informational toolkits combined with guidelines intended for the public, various physiotherapy-related health campaigns are organised each year with an aim to deliver awareness information across the world, appealing to local and global decision-makers for the providence of better facilities and support to tackle the same.

As a curtain raiser Physiotherapy in addition to other Medical professions has become a crucial part in improving better living. From ancient times as discussed by Apollo and Asclepius, The Greek Gods of Medicine, Exercise and Medicine are equally important for the wellness of patients. Evolved last three decades Physio is playing a crucial role in Ortho Cardio Neuro Sports Oncho Women and Child Health as a collaborative practice. Physiotherapists help in early recovery, reduce hospital stay, improve ergonomics and living standards. From simple Sprains to Stroke rehabilitation physiotherapy proved its vital significance and became a prime medical facility. Physios are maintaining core values of profession by improving standards of individuals organizations and society.

1. Physical therapy can help people of all ages. It is beneficial for children as well as seniors.
2. There are many different types of physical therapy such as sports therapy, pediatric therapy, aquatic therapy, etc.
3. Physical therapists work best in conjunction with doctors and chiropractors.
4. It is true that physical therapy is commonly used to treat physical injuries. However, it is also helpful for people dealing with issues like balance problems, vertigo, etc.
5. Physical therapy can also be helpful in dealing with mental health conditions.
6. Many athletes use physical therapy to avoid injuries.
7. Physical therapy is more than just exercise. In fact, it involves a lot of other treatments.

Dr Narender Reddy
Physiotherapist,
Apollo Hospitals, Hyderguda.

The post Physios Ignite the better future of patient’s lifestyle appeared first on Health Vision.

Back pain today and especially lower back pain have become a chronic ailment in India. The disease is no longer limited to the elderly but is also increasing among the youth. Long working hours along with a sedentary lifestyle is putting too much strain on our spinal discs and back muscles and has highlighted the need for us to take steps and prevent any long-term complications.

Several reasons like sports injuries, excessive stress over flexible joints and congenital spinal problems can cause chronic back pain among children and teenagers. Additionally, substance abuse too can cause adolescents to experience back pain. According to several recent studies, it has been found that adolescents who smoke cigarettes, drink alcohol and are suffering from mental health conditions like depression and anxiety are likely to suffer from back pain more frequently. For instance, 14-15-year-olds who consume alcohol and smoke tobacco experience back pain more than once a week than those who rarely or never had pain.

This combination of back pain along with unhealthy habits also creates long-term complications in adulthood. The use of toxic substances in early adolescence increases the risk of substance abuse and mental health problems in adulthood and makes the developing brain more susceptible to the negative influences of these substances which also has consequences on our spine.

Chronically poor posture during adolescence in rare cases can stretch the ligaments and can give rise to curved or slightly humped back called kyphosis. In a few cases, back pain can also indicate the emergence of unrelated problems to the spine such as Kidney problems that can cause lower back pain problems on either side of the spine. In certain rare cases, back pain can also be caused by a tumour. Therefore, on this world spine day, we share a few tips that can help you maintain spinal health and can prevent back pain.

Maintain a good posture

People who work long hours on their computers usually slouch a lot which puts pressure on their back muscles, spine and neck and causes pain. Similarly, the ones who are on their mobile phones, often lie on their stomachs with their necks arched upwards which can lead to spine damage. Hence, maintaining an upright posture in alignment with the neck and the lower back and following the correct desktop monitor or laptop level can prevent damage to their spines.

Taking short breaks

Taking short and frequent breaks can help in reducing both work-related mental stress, as well as the physical stress on our spines. Sitting in one position for extended hours is unhealthy and can worsen back pain. Thus, movement while working for longer periods is recommended as it can strengthen the muscles and nerves.

Exercise

Our sedentary jobs weaken our trunk, core and lumbar muscles, and spine and cause back pain. Exercises like partial crunches, bridge, hamstring stretches, knee-to-chest, cat stretch, and shoulder and neck rolls can help restore the fluidity of our muscles, joints, and spinal discs and can alleviate the pain.

Regular brisk walking too is an easy-to-do and effective way to relieve back and spine pain. Walking and exercising can also help in reducing weight, increasing blood flow to the muscles of the spine and raising the oxygen and nutrient levels in the blood which rejuvenates the muscles and relieves pain.

Adopting a balanced diet

Avoid fatty foods and consuming plenty of water can also help you avoid back and spine problems. Consuming low-fat, calcium and protein-rich diets that are filled with essential minerals can help you in keeping your weight in check and can reduce the overall pressure on your spine.

Our spine is a marvel of engineering that consists of a series of vertebrae which extend from the skull to the small back, enclosing the spinal cord and providing support for our thorax and abdomen. It comprises basic structures such as vertebrae, disks, cervical spine, thoracic spine, lumbar spine and coccyx which are held erect to provide balance to our body.

Living in constant pain for a longer period can have a debilitating impact on the quality of life for many patients. Even the simple daily chores will seem like a huge task When the pain becomes persistent even after months of conventional treatments. So, let us pledge this world spine day, that we will take care of our spine and take steps that can help us in leading a healthy life.

Dr. Umesh Srikantha

Consultant – Neurosurgery

Bengalururu

The post Chronic back pain: A common health condition among youngsters appeared first on Health Vision.

People of all age groups develop symptoms of Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS). RLS is a neurological condition that causes an irresistible urge to move the legs. It is a chronic condition, that can last for years or be lifelong. The symptoms may begin in childhood or adulthood, however, older adults tend to suffer severely. It is one of the common disorders affecting more than 10 million cases per year in India. According to research, the prevalence of RLS in a South Indian urban population is 2.1%.

How does it interfere with quality of life (sleep and fatigue)?
People usually experience pulling, tingling and pain feelings while sitting or lying down which get worst at night. Sometimes, the symptoms become unbearable and in severe cases, it can affect the arms or other parts of the body in addition to the legs. The unpleasant feelings and the resulting need to move the legs often make it difficult for a person with RLS to fall asleep or stay asleep. Over time, it can affect the quality and amount of sleep which can lead to the development of mood swings, depression, or other health problems hindering the quality of life as well.

RLS is a partially heritable disorder more prevalent in women than in men. The presence of low iron content despite a normal hemoglobin, having high estrogen levels in women can influence dopamine and glutamate transmission, making them more vulnerable to this condition. Women are also more prone to have migraine, depression, and anxiety. These conditions can contribute to the development of RLS in women.

Pregnant women more likely to get RLS
Pregnant women are at the risk. This may be contributed to the low serum iron and ferritin level, and high estrogen level during pregnancy. Studies have found that the prevalence of RLS among pregnant women ranged from 10 to 34%. It is RLS usually associated with a number of pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia and increased incidence of Cesarean sections. RLS is also more commonly in people with chronic kidney disease (CKD), especially those on haemodialysis. Anaemia, iron deficiency or high calcium levels in the blood are some of the factors that can cause RLS or worsen the symptoms.

Treatment:
RLS is a lifelong condition. The condition can be managed effectively with proper treatment. Self-care steps, lifestyle changes or medication may help. Movement, such as kicking, stretching, rubbing, or pacing, make the discomfort go away, at least temporarily. In severe conditions, medicines are prescribed. Basis your condition and severity, the doctor will be able to diagnose and provide a proper treatment plan.

A simple change in lifestyle works for those with mild symptoms.
• Getting moderate, regular exercise may relieve symptoms of RLS.
• One can also use soak the legs in warm water and give massages.
• Establish good sleep hygiene;
• have a regular sleep time and sleep in a cool, quiet, comfortable sleeping environment
• avoid caffeine.

Dr. Anuradha H K
Consultant Neurology
Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore

The post Did you feel irresistible urge to move legs -Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) appeared first on Health Vision.

Our bones, muscles and joints start becoming prone to various injuries as we grow older. Orthopedic problems are majorly seen in senior citizens. The problems start worsening as the temperature starts dropping during the winters. You should start taking self-care measures at home if you are already suffering from orthopedic problems. This will help in providing relief and lead you to a healthy lifestyle this winter.

You should always stay active and ensure that you are not sitting for a long period. Instead, you should get up and take a walk while continuously working in a sitting position and even stretch your body parts which will help in increasing the blood circulation in your body and you will feel more energetic.

Regular exercise is very important

Regular exercise is very important, especially for patients suffering from Orthopedic problems. You should at least exercise for 30 -40 mins or practice yoga on daily basis. This will help you in maintaining your body weight and preventing you from various injuries. Your eating habits also play a very important role in preventing you from various muscle and joint injuries. You should ensure that you have a healthy diet plan where you are consuming all the necessary vitamins.

Strictly avoid junk food

Try spending some time in the sun which will help you in increasing your vitamin D and provide you relief from your Ortho problems. As healthy eating helps you with your Ortho problems, similarly consuming junk food and alcohol can worsen your pain. You should strictly avoid junk food as they contain fats which may result in swelling in your joints and muscles. Try staying away from salty foods during winter.

Ensure that you are having your regular checkups done which will help you in knowing your medical condition status.

Also Read: Well-being of seniors citizens – how can you contribute? 

Dr. Umesh Shetty

Senior Orthopedic Surgeon, Mumbai

The post Ortho problems in winter : How to tackle? appeared first on Health Vision.

Avascular necrosis is the death of bone tissue due to a lack of blood supply. Also called osteonecrosis, it can lead to tiny breaks in the bone and cause the bone to collapse. The process usually takes months to years. A broken bone or dislocated joint can stop the blood flow to a section of bone. The causes include broken bones, dislocated hips, radiation therapy, patients on steroids for medical use and alcohol misuse. Off late, steroids administered during covid has resulted in more such cases.

Normally in precovid times, we used to see only 3 to 4 patients every year with this condition. But in post covid times, the numbers have quadrupled. Covid patients given high doses of prescribed corticosteroids to save their lives are now at risk of avascular necrosis. Usually, avascular necrosis is a condition affecting the elderly patients suffering from uncontrolled diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis, among other conditions. Since covid we are getting healthy, young individuals in their 20s and 30s with AVN of the hip. Patient history and detailed examination disclose one common link-steroid use for Covid.

In the beginning stages of the disease, the symptoms are usually nonexistent and negligible. As the condition worsens, affected joints might hurt only when putting weight on them. But those who suffered with covid and steroids were noted to have advanced stages of AVN by the time they have been diagnosed. Initially the implications include Intermittent pain that appears and eases when you put pressure on your bone and then remove the pressure, Increasing pain and stiff joints and limited range of motion. When untreated, avascular necrosis worsens.

Eventually, the bone can collapse. Avascular necrosis also causes bone to lose its smooth shape, possibly leading to severe arthritis. Managing a healthy lifestyle helps in keeping the avascular necrosis at bay.  Limited use of alcohol, monitoring the use of steroids, healthy diet and cutting down cholesterol, quitting smoking can reduce the risk.

Dr. J V Srinivas
Lead Consultant – Orthopedics & Joint Surgery
Aster RV Hospital, Bengaluru

The post Steroid use in managing COVID leads to a surge in Avascular Necrosis appeared first on Health Vision.

Bengaluru : Dr B H Banarji, Senior Consultant, Department of Orthopedics of Sakra World Hospital has created a milestone in arthroscopy by inventing a new form of effective, simple and durable method of knotting, known as the Banarji Knot. This knotting method is a low profile, non-bulky, more secure, double slide locking knot which can be utilized in arthroscopic surgeries. It has been used in more than 250 surgeries till date and has been found to be very effective. The analytical research study on the Banarji’s Knot is published in the Journal of Arthroscopic Surgery and Sports Medicine in October, 2021.

Banarji Knot, an idea initiated to benefit the patient’s surgical outcome, is specifically used for arthroscopic surgeries – knee or shoulder repair, where tendon repair or ligament repair is needed. This knot was aggressively tested by a bio medical testing lab at the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore and approved by the authorities for surgical procedures and proves to be better than other existing prevalent knots.

Arthroscopic knot tying is a crucial component for a successful arthroscopic surgery. For an effective knot in the arthroscopic procedures, it is important for a knot to possess the following characteristics such as, ease of application, reproducibility, ability to slide through arthroscopic cannulas, ease of setting the lock, knot profile, and reliable initial security. Banarji knot effectively qualifies all the above characteristics and it is easy to learn, master, and reproduce.

Speaking of the advantages of the Banarji Knot, Dr. B H Banarji said, “It is my pleasure to introduce you to Banarji Knot, an easy, reproducible knot that can be beneficiary for patients undergoing keyhole surgeries of shoulder and knee. This knot was invented and innovated during this pandemic, After a extensive research process, 5-6 knots were brought in form and this knot was finalized. Compared to other knots, Banarji Knot consists of simple procedures that can be learnt and implemented in a very short span. The loop strand passes through two loops once it’s tightened and locked at different points, thus making it stronger and increasing its tensile strength. The knot also is designed with a low profile, thereby it doesn’t create any bulky knot, which leads to impingement.”

Dr Banarji B.H is a renowned Orthopaedic Surgeon specialised in the field of Shoulder and Upperlimb disorders and Arthroscopy & Sports medicine. He is one of the most renowned surgeons in the shoulder & Upper limb sector. He was one of the first surgeons to perform key hole surgeries of Shoulder and Elbow joint in Karnataka and since then, has performed a huge number of keyhole surgeries which includes, Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair, Arthroscopic Bankart repair, Arthroscopic Frozen Shoulder Release, Arthroscopic Shoulder Decompression, Arthroscopic Nerve Release, Arthroscopic Bone-block Reconstruction and Shoulder replacement Surgeries like Total Shoulder Replacement, Reverse Shoulder Replacement and Total Elbow Replacement.

Also Read: Summer and Arthritis: How heat can make the joints inflamed? 

The post The Banarji’s Knot – Doctor at Sakra World Hospital invents a new form of Arthroscopy knot appeared first on Health Vision.

With prevalence higher than that of diabetes or cancer, arthritis has emerged as one of the widely spreading diseases in India, currently affecting nearly 200 million or about 15% of the population. Preventive measures and proper self-care are important for the country to bring down the burden from the disease, and to make a big difference to patients especially during the ongoing pandemic, when getting in-person consultation or medical intervention is proving to be difficult.

In connection with the Arthritis Awareness Month, being observed in May every year, across the world, arthritis is a swelling or tenderness in one (or more) of joints. It can affect many different parts of the joint and nearly every joint in the body. The most common forms of arthritis are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and ankylosing spondylitis. Arthritis affects people in different ways. But the most common symptoms are pain, stiffness or reduced movement, swelling, redness, and warmth of joints. Also, the general symptoms include tiredness, weight loss, and feeling unwell.

People think arthritis is a normal part of getting older. However, this is not true. It can affect people of all backgrounds and age groups. Anyone including children and young people can get arthritis. Two out of every three people with arthritis are in the age group of 15 to 60 years.

Important for early detection.

Not many think that it’s a serious medical condition, and it needs timely medication and care so that it doesn’t aggravate further. Delay is often due to lack of awareness. Talk to your doctor if you have pain and stiffness associated with swelling, redness and warmth of your joints that begins with no apparent reason and lasts for more than a few days.

On useful preventive measures, diet and exercise can help prevent the incidence and progression of arthritis. Maintaining a healthy weight and engaging in physical activity reduces the risk of developing arthritis, especially osteoarthritis. Overweight women are almost four times more likely to get knee osteoarthritis than women with normal body weight.

Physical activity can ease arthritic pain, improve function and mood, and delay the onset of disability. Even small amounts of weight loss have proven to reduce pressure on the joints significantly. Consult your doctor or physiotherapist about the type of activity such as cycling, dancing, walking, gardening, swimming, and yoga that would be most appropriate for your condition. Exercise is crucial. Just 30 minutes of exercise five times a week helps joints stay mobile and strengthens the muscles that support your knees and hips. It’s essential to focus on low-impact activities like walking, cycling or swimming. Gentle stretching can improve your range of motion and keep your joints healthy. Try to work on simple stretches every day.

Role of a healthy and balanced diet in prevention of arthritis

A Various nutrients may help boost joint health and reduce inflammation. Foods that may help delay the onset or progression of arthritis are fruits and vegetables that provide antioxidants, low-fat dairy foods that contain calcium and vitamin D, and healthy oils such as extra virgin olive oil. These foods are a part of an anti-inflammatory diet. In contrast, foods that can increase the risk of oxidative stress, and inflammation are highly processed foods and foods that contain added sugar or salt, unhealthy fats such as trans fats and saturated fats, and red meat. Hence these foods should be avoided. Keeping blood sugar under control is also important, as high blood sugar can stiffen the tissue that supports joints and make them more sensitive to stress.

The need for avoiding injuries

An injured joint is more likely to develop arthritis than one that is never injured. Wear protective gear when playing sports and protect your joints from everyday strain using the correct technique when sitting, working, and lifting. For example, lift with your knees and hips, not your back – when picking up objects.

There is need for the public to have healthy lifestyle choices such as not smoking, avoiding stress, getting adequate sleep, and reducing alcohol intake can improve your well-being by keeping you high on emotional wellness, self-management and motivation.

Dr. Chirag Thonse
Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon
Vikram Hospital

The post Prevention and self care of Arthritis key to healthcare appeared first on Health Vision.

 In a tropical country like India, the summers are too harsh. The heat and humidity increases exponentially as the temperature soars high in the month of April and May. The heat wave during this time worsens the condition of people who are suffering from arthritis and chronic joint pain. Joints in the human body have sensory nerves that have the ability to sense the change in temperature and weather. The change in the temperature and humidity tends to change the fluid level that is found in the joints and results in inflammation and pain. It can also affect the movement of the joints as it causes laxity in the ligaments, tendons and muscles.

Arthritis is one such disease which has multiple triggers such as autoimmune diseases, trauma to the joints, a viral infection and sudden weight gain. But the temperature variations are one of the main triggers for inflammation as the joints have the tendency to swell and cause extreme pain.

Ways to manage arthritis during summer

Summer is considered to be one of the main seasons for increased pain in the joints and it is difficult to manage because of the increased levels of heat and humidity. The below mentioned ways can be followed to ease the arthritis in summer.

1. Plan your activities in tandem with the temperature – Although the summer is a time for activities, people who suffer from arthritis need to plan them keeping in mind the temperature. It is imperative to do stretches before planning any physical activity. It is also important to plan outdoor activities that will not stress muscles. As the humidity and heat outdoors tend to flare up pain. Arthritis can be alleviated by understanding the limitations and acquiring them can bring a difference between a healthy summer day and a joint swelling.

2. Frequent Hydration – Temperature variation has a direct effect on the fluid content in the body, this decreases the lubrication of the joints and induces the pain and inflammation. As the mercury soars, the heat depletes the fluid levels and dehydrates the body. This leads to pain and inflammation in the joints because of the increased friction between the bones. Sufficient hydration helps in keeping the cartilage soft and it facilitates healthy blood flow. Hence, hydration becomes very crucial to arthritis management in summer. Hydration levels can be maintained by consuming plenty of fruits and veggies in addition to regular water intake. Some fruits and vegetables that are rich in water content include celery, spinach, oranges, tomatoes, cucumbers, orange and watermelon.

3. Dressing in comfortable clothes and footwear – As the temperature outside rises, it is essential to dress comfortably and preferably in clothes which allows easy flow of blood. Footwear is also an integral part in order to prevent over exertion of pressure on joints like toe and ankle.

4. Visit to physiotherapist – Physiotherapist is the best person to design a low impact exercise routine for easing of pain in the summer. Therefore, the physiotherapist consultation can be very helpful.

These steps can help in preventing or easing the artritis pain during the summer season. It is always a good option to seek advice from a medical expert when the pain becomes unbearable.

Dr. Pavan Chebbi
Consultant, Orthopaedic Surgeon
Apollo Spectra Hospital, Bangalore

The post Summer and Arthritis: How heat can make the joints inflamed? appeared first on Health Vision.

Work from home has lasted for almost a year now. Many companies have already decided to continue this concept either permanently or for few more months.  The biggest concern here is the working style which has been adopted by us. How many of us really think about our posture or the sitting position while working from home? Most of us are comfortable sitting on the sofa or on the couch, usually with the slouching back while working.

Spine related complaints on rise

Though many of us welcome the work from home option, there is a significant part of the workforce which is suffering from spine and neck related complaints and have been approaching doctors and physiotherapists for help. Also, with the schools and colleges yet to open in many parts of the country, online classes have become an integral part of the new normal. It is not only the professional who are suffering from spine complaints, but the students too.

The routine for the workers and the students is such that they get up late, grab something for breakfast, pick up the laptop, tab or the smartphone and then sit wherever they feel comfortable. It can be over the bed, recliner, coffee table, balcony, steps, dining table etc. More or less, the same routine is being followed every day. Sooner or later, they are sure to develop discomfort in the back, neck and shoulder region.

What are the major causes of spine-related problems?

At home, many do not have ergonomically designed work-stations. Poor ergonomics is one of the major causes of back pain as it puts a lot of pressure on the spine and neck. When we use the laptops with a slouched back for long hours, the spinal ligaments are strained. The furniture at home are not designed to sit for long hours. To the already existing sedentary lifestyle and lack of exercises, a wrong posture can significantly increase the risk factor of spine-related pain.

Some might dismiss that this back pain as temporary and will ease out. But what they fail to realize is that the damage is slow but steady and has all possibilities to hinder our movement in the long run and can even permanently damage the spine.

What are the right postures and steps to reduce back pain?

There is no single perfect posture as even the most upright posture can also lead to stiffness in the back region and lead to back pain. Do not lounge on your back and cross your legs while sitting.

1. Change positions : Do not sit for prolonged hours in one position. Change your positions so that you are shifting your weight. Stand up, relax and stretch by taking frequent breaks. If possible, walk for a minute or two. This way you can reduce the muscle fatigue and ensure that the blood circulation is not restricted.

2. Use pillows:  We cannot sit on firm chairs for long hours. You can use pillows to sit comfortably for long hours. Keep pillows behind the back and glutes region to sit better and give correct lumbar support.

3. Adjust workstation: Till the time you get an ergonomically designed furniture, you can follow some steps and adjust with whatever you have. Take help of your old books and raise the laptop just below your eye level. Use a small stool as a footrest and give relief to your aching feet.

4. Exercise regularly: Along with all these, exercise regularly to keep you healthy. Drink ample quantity of water and have a balanced diet. There are simple exercises for the back and neck one can do at the desk to prevent spine-related complaints.

5. visit the doctor: It is suggested to visit the doctor when you sense any discomfort in the spinal region. It is safe to visit the hospitals as all necessary precautions are taken to ensure the safety of the patients.

Dr Ravichandra Kelkar
Consultant – Orthopedics
Columbia Asia Hospital
Hebbal, Bengaluru

The post Work from home causing Spine and neck related problems? Here’s what you can do appeared first on Health Vision.