Joint Pain Surge in Working Professionals: Orthopedics Recommend Lifestyle Changes

Pune: There has been a noticeable increase in joint pain cases among individuals aged 30 to 50 who visit medical facilities each month for treatment.

According to experts, the major contributing factors are prolonged work-from-home arrangements and excessive use of electronic devices such as computers, laptops, and mobile phones.

Orthopedic specialists have noted that many patients are experiencing joint stiffness and muscle tension due to long hours of sitting in a fixed posture while working from home.

Improper working postures can further aggravate joint damage, and neglecting these issues could lead to severe complications over time.

In Pune, medical professionals are seeing an influx of 10 arthritis patients every month within the 30-50 age bracket, of which around 3-4 report significant joint pain.

The lack of physical movement during work-from-home routines and the overuse of digital devices are seen as key reasons behind this rising trend.

To mitigate the risk of arthritis and joint pain, doctors recommend that individuals working from home engage in regular exercise, take frequent breaks during work, and follow a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods like berries, broccoli, and spinach.

Orthopedic specialist Dr. Ashish Arbat emphasized the need for adopting preventive measures such as setting reminders to stand and stretch every 45 minutes, practicing yoga, using chairs with proper back support, and keeping computer screens at eye level to avoid neck and back strain.

In addition, maintaining a balanced diet and seeking physiotherapy can help reduce the onset of joint pain and related issues.

Reasons for the Increase in Joint Pain:

• Prolonged video calls and meetings cause strain on the neck, shoulders, and spine.

• The sedentary nature of working from home leads to weight gain, increasing pressure on joints.

• The work-from-home lifestyle has contributed to joint pain and arthritis among professionals.

Suggested Preventive Measures:

• Incorporate regular exercise into your routine.

• Stand up and stretch every 45 minutes to relieve muscle tension. Set reminders on your phone to do this.

• Engage in yoga to relieve joint pain.

• Use ergonomically designed chairs for back support and ensure your feet are flat on the ground while working.

• Adjust your screen to eye level to reduce neck strain.

• Follow a balanced diet to prevent joint issues and maintain overall health.