Approximately 220,000 US children and adolescents had arthritis during 2017–2021. Isn’t it shocking? A disease that was earlier associated with an ageing population is now prevalent among young adults. It usually occurred in children suffering from stress, anxiety, poor mental health, obesity, or those facing food insecurity and a smoking household. Now the question arises: Is there a link between lifestyle and arthritis? Let’s examine all the present facts and reports to answer this question. In this blog, we will discuss the cause, prevention, and treatment of arthritis in young adults.
Arthritis in Young Adults
Arthritis is a condition of chronic inflammation of joints. This inflammation can cause severe pain, restricted motion, and decrease the quality of life. There are many types of arthritis; however, all fall under three main categories: osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis. Arthritis can be triggered by accidents, unhealed injuries, viral infections, and autoimmunity.
One of the most prominent symptoms of arthritis is morning stiffness in the joints of the hands that lasts upto 30 minutes, but can take hours to improve sometimes, so immediately visit a trusted medical adviser. If you are looking for the best arthritis doctor, visit Dr Uday Meghnathi. He is the best knee replacement surgeon in Vadodara with years of experience in managing arthritis. His clinic is full of advanced and modern treatment equipment. He ensures all his patients are attended to well and treated compassionately. Call us and book your appointment.
Causes of Arthritis
Some causes of arthritis are out of your control, but focus on what you can control. Take a look at all the causes of arthritis and make the necessary lifestyle changes.
- Genetics: A primary cause for arthritis in young adults is genetics. Children inherit it from parents or ancestors and cannot help its progression. It can be managed well with medications.
- Injury: Sports injuries or injuries from accidents are capable of triggering arthritis in young adults.
- Obesity: Abnormally excessive weight can put a lot of stress on the weight-bearing joints, such as the knee joint and hip joint. This increases the inflammation and wear of the joints. Arthritis, in this case, can be managed by living a healthy lifestyle.
- Poor Physical Health: Being in the same pose for a long time can cause stiffness, degeneration of cartilage, and poor body mechanics. Staying physically active and improving ergonomics can reduce the chances of arthritis.
- Autoimmunity: Autoimmunity is triggered by genetics and can cause arthritis. Other disorders like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis can also trigger it.
- Smoking and Alcohol Abuse: These substances are directly linked, causing inflammation and disrupting normal organ functions. Quitting these substances is beneficial at all costs.
Also Check: Importance of Calcium For Bone Health
Prevention of Arthritis
- Get involved in regular low-impact exercises such as swimming and walking, which can help build strength in the body.
- Avoid putting the body in situations of repetitive motions and intense wear.
- Take a healthy diet and stay hydrated as much as possible. Eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, and avoid refined sugars and processed foods.
- Avoid pushing the body beyond its limits and take rest when necessary.
Treatment of Arthritis
Each patient who walks in with a complaint of arthritis needs a special evaluation. The treatment of arthritis is composed of various medications, therapies, and surgery as a last resort. Therefore, Dr Uday makes sure all the patients are evaluated, and then a custom treatment plan is made for them. Some of the treatments to manage arthritis are:
- Medications:
- NSAIDs: These non-steroidal drugs can help ease pain and inflammation.
- DMARDs: This class of drugs can slow the progression of the disease.
- Corticosteroids: Used for short-term relief from pain.
- Physiotherapy: A physiotherapist evaluates the intensity of the ailment and makes a set of exercises which can improve the flexibility and build strength.
- Injections: In some cases, injections like corticosteroids, lubricants, and stem cells can be injected to manage swelling and pain.
- Lifestyle Changes: Exercise, weight management, diet, stress management, and hot and cold therapy can help with aggressive symptoms of arthritis.
- Surgery: Arthroscopy, joint replacement, and joint fusion can reduce arthritis-associated issues to a great extent.
Conclusion
Arthritis might be an aggressive and progressive disease, but Dr Uday believes it can be managed with modern treatment methods and strong willpower. He is the best orthopedic surgeon in Vadodara. With a proven track record, he has a strong reputation for performing complex surgeries like knee replacement. His clinic is a testament to his dedication and ultra-modern treatment techniques. Book your consultation now.
Also Read: Knee Ligament Injuries
