Dr. Manish Kumar Varshney
The global community comes together once again on World Arthritis Day, slated for October 12th, to raise awareness and unite in the fight against this debilitating disease. This year’s theme is “Arthritis: Know More, Live Better,” focusing at promoting enhanced public understanding of arthritis types, early diagnosis, treatment perspectives, encouraging research and development, and improving access to appropriate treatment options for millions of people suffering from various forms of arthritis.
Arthritis, characterized by inflammation (perceived as swelling) of the joints, affects millions worldwide, transcending age, gender, and socio-economic barriers. With over 100 types of arthritis and related conditions, this disease is widespread and a leading cause of disability. The most common forms are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and fibromyalgia.
Despite advancements in modern medicine, the prevalence of arthritis is on the rise due to factors such as an aging population, sedentary lifestyles and obesity. The pain from arthritis may not only be physical but also emotional and psychological as sufferers increasingly find themselves unable to participate in daily activities they once enjoyed.
World Arthritis Day highlights the importance of early intervention in preventing irreversible joint damage; this means taking a proactive approach towards seeking timely medical advice and adhering to prescribed treatments. It encourages self-management among patients by offering tools and resources that empower them to take charge of their condition. While self-care practices like exercise, weight management, and healthy lifestyle choices can help manage arthritis symptoms, it is essential to consult with an orthopedician for proper evaluation and guidance. Orthopedicians possess specialized knowledge and expertise in diagnosing and treating joint-related conditions. Whether it’s prescribing medication, recommending physical therapy exercises or lifestyle modifications, or correcting the joint by replacement surgery orthopedicians offer personalized care tailored to individual needs. For those with severe joint damage total knee or hip replacement surgery can be life-changing. These procedures are highly effective at relieving pain and restoring mobility. Advances in surgical techniques have led to shorter recovery times and improved long-term outcomes for patients.
Advancements in AI technology are fast transforming how arthritis care is managed and delivered. From wearable devices to track symptoms in real time, artificial intelligence-based algorithms for personalized treatment plans, and the use of big data for predicting disease progression. By using machine learning algorithms and predictive analytics, AI can assist healthcare providers in early detection, accurate diagnosis, and customized treatment plans for patients with arthritis.
Public awareness campaigns concerning World Arthritis Day underscore not only the need for increased funding and research but also promote a deeper understanding of the patient’s experience. This global movement transcends borders, bringing together patients, healthcare providers, policymakers, researchers, and even technology experts to advocate for better healthcare systems that cater to these chronic conditions. On World Arthritis Day 2023, let’s come together to raise awareness about arthritis types, diagnosis options, treatment perspectives, the role of orthopedicians in managing arthritis, the transformative potential of AI and robotics in joint replacement surgeries. Remember that seeking professional medical advice is crucial for optimal management of this condition.
Stay informed. Take action. Empower lives!!!
(The writer is Senior Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon SMVD Narayana Superspeciality Hospital).