Saina Nehwal revealed on the House of Glory podcast that she has arthritis in her knees. Speaking to the anchor, Saina said, “The knee is not very good. I have arthritis. My cartilage has gone to a very bad state. It is very difficult to push for eight-nine hours.” The 2010 and 2018 Commonwealth Games gold medallist further added that it is becoming challenging for her to train for normal hours – she can’t stop herself from thinking that her career might be in its final stages.
Saina Nehwal hinted at her resignation and said that two hours of training is not enough to challenge the best players in the world. And she has to accept that. This podcast episode draws our attention to how arthritis is spreading among young adults these days.
ALSO READ: Saina Nehwal has arthritis in her knee, ‘thinking about retirement’: ‘How will you challenge the best players in the world?’
arthritis in young adults
Commenting on this in an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Dipti Patel, Consultant Rheumatologist, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central, said, “Arthritis, typically associated with older people, can significantly affect people between the ages of 20 and 40, as well as younger individuals, including children. Inflammatory arthritis, which includes conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis, can affect young adults and often begins in early adulthood. Symptoms in this age group typically include persistent joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, which can particularly affect weight-bearing joints such as the knees, hips, and lower back. The inflammation can cause considerable discomfort and fatigue, potentially affecting work, social activities, and overall quality of life.”
Also read: Living well with arthritis: Strategies for a pain-free life
Arthritis in youth: How to manage?
Speaking on this, Dr. Dipti Patel said that arthritis is managed through a combination of medication, physiotherapy and lifestyle changes. “While arthritis cannot always be prevented, several measures can help manage and reduce its impact. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent long-term joint damage and effectively manage symptoms. Regular low-impact exercises such as swimming or cycling help maintain joint flexibility and strength while reducing stress on the joints. A diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods such as fruits, vegetables and omega-3 fatty acids supports overall joint health. Maintaining a healthy weight is also important to reduce additional stress on the joints,” said Dr. Dipti Patel.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor for any questions about any medical condition.
