Dr Hitendra K. Doshi | April 27, 2018
Healthy bones and joints in the human body allow for pain free mobility. This is why when we suffer from an ache, soreness or discomfort in our joints, our mobility is affected. With our ageing population, there is an increasing number of people suffering from joint pain. There are preventive measure available to eliminate or alleviate the problem in both the young and the old.
Joint Pain a common symptom found in both the young and the old. Many young individuals suffer from chronic pain after participating in particular sport activities, which may be concerning as it can affect their other daily physical activities.
Similarly, the middle aged and the elderly may suffer from chronic pain which can significantly curtail their daily routine activities. As we’re faced with an increasingly aging population with most elderly folks living longer, we also see most of them leading a healthier and more active lifestyle. However, many individuals still suffer from chronic pain involving the joints that limit function and mobility. In today’s society, cultural norms demand every individual to be independent and self-sufficient particularly in carrying out activities of daily living. Although, caregivers may be present to care for the aged in a family unit, the elderly usually hope to remain active and be able to care for him or herself ideally.
Mobility can be significantly affected through the ages as a result of joint degeneration. Though it can be prevented with early diagnosis and intervention with preventive measures, many may require a customised approach of treatment to optimise function with painless mobility. With advancing age, joint degeneration is a common condition however its severity may be influenced by past injuries, previous sports-related activities or due to other compounding factors such as obesity. Orthopaedic concerns in the elderly beyond 60 years of age is also known as Ortho-Geriatrics. Some of these concerns may actually have been present since the younger years due to a sport-related injury, a trauma or simply due to wear and tear. However, it becomes apparent as one ages through symptoms and signs. Therefore, it is very crucial to understand the issue of concern early on and to get treated at the initial stages. This awareness is crucial in all age groups especially for the young active individual.
There are many non-surgical approaches available to reduce the load on the degenerate joint. For example, the use of an off-loader knee brace, visco-supplementation and regular physiotherapy besides pain killers and weight reduction. When the degeneration becomes severe, the quality of life on an individual is significantly compromised. Many may become dependant on pain killers and activities of daily living becomes a challenge. Often in such situations, surgery may be recommended if clinically indicated. The cornerstone of Management is in determining an Early Diagnosis, executing a Holistic Approach in treating the issue of concern and most importantly to practice the Preventive Measures.
Preventing joint pain is imperative to staying mobile and keeping active. Both the young and the old are not exempt from it. As our bones degenerate with age, it’s crucial to get diagnosed early by a professional to ensure proper treatment is administered and to stay active in the long-run.
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