From news18.com
Once seen as an age-related condition, arthritis is now affecting young Indians. Experts explain the lifestyle, obesity, and nutrition factors driving early-onset arthritis
For decades, arthritis was widely perceived as an inevitable part of ageing, something that crept in with advancing years, bringing along joint pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. But that perception is rapidly changing in India. Doctors across the country are now seeing a worrying rise in arthritis cases among people in their 20s, 30s, and 40s, signalling a significant shift in the nation’s disease burden.
Dr Ashraf Khan, Consultant Orthopaedic and Joint Replacement Surgeon, Ruby Hall Clinic, Wanowrie, believes this trend is closely tied to how modern lifestyles have evolved. “Arthritis has long been associated with older adults, but today, we are diagnosing it in individuals as young as their 20s and 30s. This is an ominous change," he says.
One of the biggest contributors is a sedentary way of life. Long hours spent sitting at desks, excessive screen time, and minimal physical activity weaken the muscles that are meant to support the joints. When muscles fail to absorb everyday stress, the burden shifts directly onto the joints. Over time, even routine activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or standing for long periods accelerate joint wear and inflammation, paving the way for early-onset arthritis.
Dr Vijay Shetty, Director, Orthopaedic and Joint Replacement, Dr L H Hiranandani Hospital, Powai, echoes this concern, noting that he has seen a marked rise in young patients aged 25–45 presenting with early arthritis, particularly in the knees and hips. “Prolonged sitting, reduced activity, and poor muscle conditioning overload the cartilage and hasten degeneration," he explains.
Compounding the problem is India’s growing obesity epidemic among young adults. Excess body weight places disproportionate stress on weight-bearing joints such as the knees and hips. Dr Khan points out that even modest weight gain can significantly accelerate cartilage damage. Diets rich in processed foods, refined sugars, and unhealthy fats further worsen the issue by increasing low-grade inflammation throughout the body, which in turn aggravates joint degeneration.
Dr Shetty adds that obesity often overlaps with metabolic syndrome, intensifying chronic inflammation and speeding up cartilage breakdown. At the same time, he highlights another modern paradox: while many young people are inactive, others are engaging in high-intensity fitness routines without proper conditioning or technique. “Untreated ligament injuries, meniscal tears, and cartilage damage from sports or workouts can accelerate post-traumatic arthritis in young adults," he says.
Nutritional deficiencies are another silent driver. Both specialists underline the widespread lack of vitamin D, calcium, and protein among young Indians, largely due to indoor lifestyles and limited sun exposure. These nutrients are vital for bone strength, muscle function, and cartilage repair. Deficiencies weaken the musculoskeletal system, making joints more vulnerable to early degeneration and pain.
Beyond lifestyle and nutrition, other factors are also at play. Dr Shetty notes that genetic predisposition, autoimmune conditions like early-onset rheumatoid arthritis, smoking, and even post-COVID complications are contributing to the rise. “Post-COVID, we are seeing a sharp increase in avascular necrosis of the hip, which often progresses to hip arthritis at a young age," he explains.
The consequences of arthritis in younger adults extend far beyond physical discomfort. Dr Khan warns that early arthritis can lead to reduced mobility, chronic pain, emotional stress, and long-term dependence on medication significantly affecting productivity and quality of life during the most active years. In severe cases, it may even result in joint replacement surgeries much earlier than previously seen.
Despite the growing concern, both experts stress that arthritis in the young is largely preventable. Early identification, timely medical consultation for persistent joint pain, and proactive lifestyle changes are critical. Strength training to support joints, maintaining a healthy weight, balanced nutrition, ergonomic workspaces, and proper rehabilitation after injuries can all delay or even prevent the progression of the disease.
“Arthritis in the young is no longer rare," Dr Shetty concludes, “but with awareness, early diagnosis, and lifestyle modification, it is a trend we can still reverse."
As India grapples with changing lifestyles and health habits, arthritis has clearly ceased to be just a disease of old age. Preventive care today may be the key to protecting joint health for decades to come.
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