BONE And JOINT DAY On 4th August 2021 Aftermath of Covid on Bone and Joint Health

Covid had a significant impact on bone and joint health and has resulted in increased complications in the joints. In general bone health has been neglected in the Indian healthcare system.

According to many studies more than 80% of Indian population are vit-d deficient. During the pandemic, due to lockdowns people have been confined to their houses and were not properly exposed to sunlight and it further aggravated Vit D deficiency.Lack of physical exercises has led to increased obesity issues in people which in turn raised joint problems. Due to decreased mobility during lockdowns, there were increased complaints about muscle and bone pains says "Dr Gopi Krishna Reddy, Orthopaedic Joint Replacement Surgeon, SLG Hospitals

On the other side due to over usage of steroids during covid, there was a raise in incidence of conditions like Osteoporosis and Avascular necrosis of joints. Steroids decrease bone mineral density and predisposes for weak bones. Along with that steroid decrease blood supply to bone and joints and results in development of Avascular necrosis in joints. Hip is most commonly affected with this condition.On alarming side there has been surge in bone and joint infections during post covid time. Immunity is at compromise with high steroid usage; thus, patients are more prone for infections.

How to tackle bone and joint issues and keep ourselves fit:

Healthy Diet:  Diet rich in calcium, vit D& C and proteins are important for maintaining good bone and joint health. Calcium rich foods like milk, cheese and other dairy products are key for bone health. If you are not exposed to sunlight properly then we need to supplement with Vit-d tablets/syrups. Regular Exercise: Exercise is most key factor in keeping our bones and joint healthy. Exercising at least 4 days week will improve strength and overall fitness. Regular exercises will improve joint movement, strength and flexibility of muscles. Strength training and weight bearing exercises are the best ways to build healthy bones and muscles.

Maintaining Healthy Weight: Keeping our weight with in normal range of BMI( body mass index) is very important for preventing joint damage. Overweight puts joints at high risk for early arthritis, as over weight will increase stress over joints. Avoid Smoking: Smoking decreases blood supply to bones and make them weak.Avoid excessive alcohol use: Heavy alcohol decreases bone density and it also interferes with adsorption and regulation of calcium and vitamin D, thus increasing risk of osteoporosis.