World Arthritis Day: Early diagnosis of joint pain and arthritis stressed

World Arthritis Day is observed across the world on October 12 every year. The aim of the day is to give people correct information about arthritis and the hundreds of related conditions, and to make them aware of them.

Arthritis is not a disease of any particular age or section of society. It is a highly painful disorder of the joints. When joints become inflamed, painful and swollen, and the bones turn stiff, it is called arthritis. The disease can leave a person physically helpless, and even walking upright or making light movements can become painful.

The World Health Organization (WHO) and major medical institutions across the world hold health camps and special programmes on this day, to explain the importance of early diagnosis and proper treatment. The two most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. According to the message of the day, if the disease is ignored in the early stage, there is a risk of the joints being damaged completely. It is therefore considered very important to recognise the symptoms and consult a doctor in time.

In today's hectic life, the number of patients with joint pain is rising rapidly because of poor diet, lack of exercise and stress. According to experts, including calcium, vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids and green leafy vegetables in the daily diet helps keep joints strong.

Experts also say that light daily exercise, walking, yoga and stretching help keep the joints flexible. For arthritis patients, keeping weight under control is considered the best medicine, because excess body weight puts direct strain on the joints of the knees and legs. On this day, doctors, medical experts and patients come together to look for ways to fight the disease and also give one another emotional support.

World Arthritis Day is not merely a reminder of one disease; it also carries a message about taking care of the body. The message is that joint pain should not be brushed aside by saying, "I have grown old, so it must be aching". Those who themselves, or someone they know, feel persistent stiffness or pain in the joints are advised to consult a specialist doctor at once. The message of the day also says that the body is our greatest temple and keeping it healthy is our first responsibility.