Knee Pain? Weight Could Be the Hidden Culprit
Knee pain is often dismissed as a natural part of aging, but a closer look reveals that excess weight can be a significant contributor. In India, where obesity rates are rising, many individuals may not realize that the extra pounds they carry can lead to serious knee issues. According to Dr. Amyn Rajani, an orthopedic surgeon based in Mumbai, the knee joint is not designed to endure the strain of excess weight for prolonged periods.
Most people believe that their knees only support their actual body weight. However, everyday activities like climbing stairs or even sitting down put three to six times more pressure on the knees. When individuals gain weight, this constant overload can accelerate cartilage damage, leading to chronic pain. This is particularly alarming as knee pain often starts subtly, with mild discomfort that can quickly escalate.
Osteoarthritis, often perceived as an "old age" issue, is actually prevalent among overweight individuals. Dr. Rajani explains that excess weight can cause this condition to appear earlier and progress more rapidly. As the cartilage wears down, the knee becomes stiff and painful, affecting mobility and quality of life.
There's a common misconception that body fat is harmless. In reality, fat tissue releases chemicals that promote inflammation, weakening the cartilage and worsening joint pain. This means that even a slight weight increase can further harm joint health, especially for those already experiencing knee pain.
Additionally, being overweight can alter the alignment of the legs, leading to bow-leg or knock-knee patterns. This misalignment creates uneven pressure on the knee, accelerating damage on one side. Once this occurs, localized pain can become more challenging to treat without medical intervention.
As knees struggle under excess weight, surrounding muscles can weaken due to constant stress. Dr. Rajani notes that this not only reduces knee stability but also increases the risk of further joint damage. The meniscus, which acts as a natural shock absorber, is also at risk, making it prone to tears that can cause sharp pain.
The journey to better knee health is cumulative; excess weight quietly compounds the damage with each step. However, the silver lining is that even modest weight loss can significantly reduce stress on the joints and slow cartilage breakdown. Therefore, treating your knees with care is essential, as they bear more weight than we often acknowledge.
