Knee pain, once considered a problem of the elderly, is now increasingly affecting Indians in their 30s and 40s. Experts attribute this trend to changing lifestyles, sedentary habits, obesity, and traditional cultural practices that put strain on the knees.
Dr. Gaurav Gupta, a leading Knee Replacement Surgeon and Joint Pain Specialist at Jhansi Orthopaedic Hospital, notes, “In India, we are seeing more patients in their 30s and 40s complaining of knee pain and stiffness. This was rare even a decade ago.”
Lifestyle Factors Fueling Knee Problems
In India, everyday activities such as sitting cross-legged or squatting for prayers, meals, or chores exert significant stress on knee joints — nearly three times the body’s weight. For farmers, laborers, and homemakers, repeated bending and lifting accelerate cartilage wear, leading to chronic pain and stiffness. Conversely, urban lifestyles with long hours of sitting, minimal exercise, and excess weight weaken the muscles supporting the knees, further aggravating joint problems.
Weight and Diet: A Hidden Threat
Obesity is a key contributor to knee damage. Each extra kilogram of body weight adds approximately five kilograms of load on the knees during daily activities, eroding cartilage over time. Poor dietary habits, high sugar intake, and insufficient protein or calcium accelerate joint inflammation and degeneration.
Arthritis Is No Longer Age-Dependent
Osteoarthritis, once thought to be an age-related condition, is now increasingly linked to lifestyle factors. Continuous inactivity, improper posture, and obesity can accelerate cartilage wear, resulting in pain and stiffness. Dr. Gupta highlights that Tier-2 cities like Jhansi are witnessing a significant rise in early-onset arthritis.
Prevention Remains Key
Lifestyle modification can prevent or delay knee arthritis. Dr. Gupta recommends:
- Stay active: Walking, cycling, or swimming strengthens muscles and keeps joints flexible.
- Maintain a healthy weight: Even modest weight loss reduces joint pressure significantly.
- Correct posture: Avoid prolonged sitting or squatting; use ergonomic furniture and move every 30 minutes.
- Eat for joint health: Include calcium, protein, and vitamin D-rich foods.
- Manage stress: Yoga and meditation help reduce inflammation.
When Surgery Becomes Necessary
Surgery is required only when pain significantly affects daily life — less than 1% of cases. “Almost 90-95% of patients improve through exercise, weight management, and physical therapy,” says Dr. Gupta.
The Robotic Revolution in Knee Replacement
Robotic-assisted Knee Replacement Surgery is transforming joint care. Using 3D mapping and robotic precision, surgeons can plan and perform procedures with millimetre-level accuracy. Dr. Gupta explains, “Robotics allows personalized surgery, resulting in better implant alignment, less blood loss, faster recovery, and longer implant life — often 25 years or more.” He adds, “With robotics, knee replacement is no longer a last resort but a precise, long-lasting solution.”
A Message of Hope
Knee pain should not be seen as a sign of aging. Regular movement, a balanced diet, and lifestyle management can keep joints strong and pain-free. For those in need, modern robotic surgery provides lasting relief. “Your knees carry your life — treat them with the same care you give your heart,” concludes Dr. Gupta.
