Doctors at orthopaedic clinics and OPDs in hospitals are highly concerned about the increasing cases of arthritis among the young population. 

According to experts, 15 to 20% of orthopaedic patients are 35 or younger. They said a sedentary lifestyle with prolonged sitting hours, a poor diet, no exercise, heavy smoking, and alcohol consumption were factors behind the increase. Inflammatory arthritis is most frequently observed in juvenile people with arthritis. In addition to neck stiffness, it leads to an autoimmune disorder in which patients have swelling and discomfort in their fingers, wrists, and other minor joints.

Previously, 5 to 7 years ago, most arthritis cases were seen among people aged 45 and above. But currently, a patient might be as young as 16 years old.

Dr. Akhilesh Yadav, the head of the orthopaedic division at Max Hospital in Vaishali, stated that younger people′s cartilage begins to deteriorate due to poor nutrition and calcium and Vitamin B12 deficiency, which, if untreated for a long time, might even result in joint deformities. Additionally, a major issue for young people who are studying or working is weight management. If someone is overweight, their knees must take the load.

Dr. Suvrat Arya, a senior physician in the rheumatology division at the Jaypee Hospital in Noida, emphasized lifestyle as the main factor contributing to the diagnosis of arthritis in children. He said the best course of treatment for people in the early stages of the ailment is a combination of medicine, targeted exercises, and nutrition management. Additionally, physiotherapy showed significant outcomes. But he warned that joint replacement might be necessary if left untreated for a long time.

(Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/noida/arthritis-among-teens-youngsters-too-lifestyle-a-big-factor-say-doctors/articleshow/94822371.cms)