Joint pain rises sharply amongst millennials: Orthopedic cites THIS reason
Joint pain is now not only the domain of the older population. More and more millennials in their 30s and early 40s are reporting inexplicable joint pains, stiffness, and discomfort, sending alarm signals to medical professionals.
What is causing this
"The prime reason for this trend," says Dr. Srisanat Rao, Orthopaedic Surgeon with Zynova Shalby Hospital, Mumbai, "lies in
vitamin D
deficiency, which is largely brought about by contemporary, indoor-oriented lifestyles." (as told to HT Lifestyle )
Why are millennials at risk
Dr. Rao indicates that the transition to virtual workspaces and increased screen time has resulted in less direct sunlight exposure, the human body's primary source of vitamin D.
Combine this with the sleep disorders, lack of exercise, and poor diets of many millennials, and the end result is a common deficiency of this essential nutrient.
"Numerous young adults are complaining about chronic joint pain, usually without any underlying injury. In the majority of instances, low levels of vitamin D are responsible," explains Dr. Rao.
Vitamin D and its role in joint and
bone health
Vitamin D facilitates calcium absorption, which is imperative for bone health and muscle function. Deficiency can result in:
Joint stiffness
Muscle weakness
Bone pain or a tendency to break easily
Osteoporosis and fracture risk
Without proper vitamin D, bones slowly weaken, and joints can begin to deteriorate sooner than they should.
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Symptoms of
Vitamin D Deficiency
A few of the initial
signs
millennials need to keep an eye on are:
Ongoing tiredness
Pain in the back or joints
Irritability or mood swings
Recurring muscle spasms
By not paying heed to these warning signs, more critical health issues can be harbored later.
How to protect our bones and what precautions should one undertake
Dr. Rao advises the following prevention for millennials to protect their bone health and prevent joint-related problems:
Make sure to get sunlight exposure regularly
By now, we all have encountered several benefits of sunlight and how essential it is for our health and body. Try and strive for a minimum of 15-20 minutes of sun exposure every day, ideally during the morning hours when sunlight is moderate.
Eat vitamin D–rich food
Add protein in the diet, consume foods such as egg yolk, fatty fish, mushrooms and fortified dairy products. Make sure that its not too much, but consuming what is required by the body
Take Vitamin D supplements
If natural consumption is not working and one has been diagnosed with a vitamin D deficiency, supplements may be effective. Always consult a medical health professional before adding any new supplement.
Stay active and exercise
An exercising body will always be healthier than a non-exercising one.
Physical activities such as walking, yoga, and strength training are good for both our body as well as our bone health.
Schedule regular health checks
If one has been diagnosed with any vitamin deficiency, it is imperative to get tested every 3 to 6 months before complications arise and also to check the progress of our vitamin absorption in the body.
What does study say about Vitamin D deficiency and its implications
"Vitamin D deficiency prevails in epidemic proportions all over the Indian subcontinent, with a prevalence of 70%–100% in the general population", as published in the research paper titled
"Vitamin D Deficiency in India:
Prevalence, Causalities and Interventions." This shows that Vitamin D deficiency is a pandemic, yet it is the most underdiagnosed and under-treated nutritional deficiency in the world. The urgent need of the hour is awareness. Routine screening for vitamin D levels, especially among urban populations with limited sun exposure, should be considered a preventive health measure. Public health campaigns must highlight the importance of balanced sun exposure, dietary sources of vitamin D, and professional guidance when using supplements.
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War 2
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