We often associate youth with strength, good health, and agility. Little do we know that even young people can suffer from problems that can compromise the above traits. One such problem that we tend to relate to old age is arthritis. Although common in the older population, arthritis can affect young individuals as well.

World Arthritis Day, observed on 12th October every year, aims to raise awareness about arthritis and its impact on people of all ages at all life stages. This year's theme is "Living with an RMD (Rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases) at all stages of life". It encourages people to take action to manage their arthritis and support others living with the disease. In this blog, let us walk you through the various potential causes of arthritis in young individuals and how it can be prevented.

What is Arthritis?

Arthritis is a condition in which the joints become tender and swollen. This causes severe pain and stiffness in the affected individuals across all age groups. In younger kids, juvenile idiopathic arthritis is the most common type which affects young kids below 16 years. 

What Causes Arthritis in Young People?

There are various reasons why a young person can get arthritis. These are as follows: 

1. Lack of activity leading to muscle weakness: Today, young people live a sedentary lifestyle, mostly because of busy schedules and sedentary jobs. Obesity is also another result of inactive lifestyle. Some people also don’t consider fitness as a priority. Lack of activity causes the muscles to become weak and unable to support the joints, making the joints prone to arthritis.

2. Ignoring joint injuries: Young people tend to ignore injuries. They overestimate the self-healing property of their body as an outcome of their age. However, these injuries can exacerbate their condition and lead to disabling complications. Arthritis can be one such long-term complication of ignored and improperly treated joint injury.

3. Congenital conditions: Some people are born with certain alignment issues of the limbs at birth (congenital defect). If not at birth, these issues can even develop as the child grows old. These structural malalignments of the limbs can cause stress to the joints.

4. Overuse of joints and incorrect posture: Maintaining a proper right posture is very important. Inappropriate posture due to prolonged sitting or standing can strain your joints and cause arthritis. Repeatedly engaging in the same activity can also add to joint injury. 

5. Autoimmune disorder: Your immune system can sometimes mistakenly recognize your joint tissues as foreign bodies and start to attack them. Some autoimmune conditions such as psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis can increase your risk of arthritis. 

6. Hyperuricemia: Increased levels of uric acid in the blood, also called hyperuricemia, can cause GOUT - a type of arthritis that causes pain, inflammation, and redness in joints, mainly the big toe. 

How Can You Prevent Arthritis? 

Early prevention is always better than cure. Following the below-mentioned tips can help you prevent arthritis:

• Eat well and follow a healthy diet: Eat a balanced diet that includes proteins and carbohydrates. Include fruits, grains, veggies, and lean proteins in your diet. 

• Stay fit and manage your weight: Increased weight can add stress to your joints, especially the knees, hips, and spine. So, it’s always better to keep your weight in check.

• Exercise regularly: Working out can not only help you maintain a healthy weight but can increase your muscle strength as well. Plan your exercise regime with moderate aerobic exercises that include – brisk walking, jogging, swimming, or cycling.

• Take short breaks: While at work, ensure you take short breaks for 5-10 minutes to relax your joints and muscles. Also, watch out for your sitting posture.

• Do not ignore injuries or conditions: If you have an injury or you suffer from any problem that affects your joints, see a doctor immediately. Early intervention can save you from a serious and debilitating condition like arthritis. 

This World Arthritis Day, let’s work towards staying healthy and fit - this will not only prevent a disabling condition like arthritis but also guarantee a better quality of life.