The burden of obesity on joints
Carrying too much weight on one’s body directly puts more stress on their joints especially their weight-bearing joints like the knees and the hips. When you put more force on the cartilage, it\'s going to wear out quicker. A variety of studies have found connections between carrying extra body weight and having knee pain. Osteoarthritis,
Carrying too much weight on one’s body directly puts more stress on their joints especially their weight-bearing joints like the knees and the hips. When you put more force on the cartilage, it's going to wear out quicker. A variety of studies have found connections between carrying extra body weight and having knee pain. Osteoarthritis, which is the most prevalent form of arthritis and the leading cause of disability in India, affects over 15 million Indians each year.
The good news is that small changes can make a big difference. In a recent study of overweight and obese people with knee osteoarthritis, those who lost weight with diet and exercise reduced their knee pain by about half. Losing weight is an important part of keeping your knees healthy.Let's look at tips that can help you to keep obesity in check and consequently reducing your chance of joint
problems:
Consult your doctor: Gaining a few pounds here and there is one thing but more than 20 kilos than your normal weight is unhealthy. Before you start heavy workouts you need to consult an expert. If you already have knee pain, discuss types of activities with your doctor that might be safe for you.
Be well informed: For patients who are not willing to live a compromised life can opt for total knee replacement surgery. Technologically advanced, Oxidized Zirconium has lately been successful in offering long lasting knee. The material has proven to be a superior metal for use in the production of knee implants because of its hardness, smoothness and resistance to scratching.
Exercise: Good types of exercises for heavier people include walking, even for just a few minutes when you're starting out, bicycling indoors or outside and strength training to build stronger muscles. Maintain your weight: Obesity is a product of unhealthy eating and lack of exercise. You must work out every day for at least 30 min in order to combat this disease.
This reduces your risk of developing osteoarthritis making you more flexible. Keep your BMI, cholesterol and weight in check. Eat what is right for you: It is advisable to eat a balanced meal and not switch to yo-yo diet plans. This helps in avoiding muscle tears and maintains your muscle weight. Thus provides you a holistic and healthy life.
(The author is orthopaedic surgeon at Srikara Hospital in Secunderabad)
