Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common joint problem in adults. It causes pain in the hands, knees, hips, back, and neck. While it's not entirely clear how excess weight influences OA, being overweight puts more stress on the knees and joints. Cartilage breakdown can occur due to extra stress. Breakdown of cartilage leads to more pain and discomfort. Overweight women carry the risk of Osteoarthritis four times, while overweight men carry the risk five times more.
How Weight Loss Can Impact Knee Pain
According to the Framingham study, lowering weight can lower the risk of Osteoarthritis. It helps those who have a higher body mass index. (BMI). Weight loss can also help individuals who are already suffering from knee OA. Weight loss helps in reducing pain and improve knee function. Also, weight management slows down cartilage breakdown and reduces inflammation, leading to maintaining good joint health.
How Weight Loss Helps the Joints
The pressure on the knees reduces with the reduction in weight. Suppose if you lose just 10 pounds (about 4.5 kg) then you can take 40 pounds (about 18 kg) of pressure off your knees with every step you take. This reduction in pressure can lead to less wear and tear on your knees. It lowers the risk of developing OA or worsening existing knee pain. It is important to maintain a healthy weight to prevent further joint damage and improve mobility.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Knee Pain
Apart from weight loss management, other non-surgical treatments are available, like Core Concept in Deccan Gymkhana, an advanced spine and joint development rehab that provides physical therapy, injections, bracing, and lifestyle changes. As non-surgical options are less invasive, pain is less, and flexibility improves considerably.
Non-invasive treatment at Core Concept
At Core Concept in Deccan Gymkhana, you can find advanced non-surgical treatments to relieve knee pain. These treatments offer many benefits, such as no stitches or scars and a lower risk of complications.