World Arthritis Day 2025 spotlight: Arthritis is no longer an old-age issue
On World Arthritis Day 2025, leading orthopaedic surgeon Dr. Akhilesh Rathi from Dwarka, New Delhi, highlights a troubling shift: arthritis is increasingly affecting younger adults in their 20s and 30s. In a candid interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Rathi, who leads robotic joint replacement programs and spine care, explains how modern lifestyle factors are accelerating joint degeneration and what this means for today’s young professionals, athletes, and students.
Why are younger people at risk?
Dr. Rathi identifies several interlinked factors that contribute to early joint wear and inflammatory conditions among the young. A predominantly sedentary lifestyle, long hours of sitting, poor posture, obesity, and escalating screen time place abnormal stresses on the knees and spine. He notes, “Prolonged sitting, inadequate stretching, and lack of muscle strengthening lead to early degeneration of joints, especially the knees and spine.” Additionally, unhealthy eating habits, including high sugar intake and processed foods, can trigger systemic inflammation that harms joint health.
Beyond lifestyle, injuries from sports or gym workouts, repetitive high-stress activities, and chronic stress or sleep deprivation can disrupt immune balance and accelerate joint inflammation. Dr. Rathi emphasizes that even people who were once active are not immune if they neglect joint care over time.
Early warning signs to watch for
Early detection is crucial. The doctor points to joint stiffness, particularly in the mornings, persistent swelling, redness, and noticeable difficulty in movement as red flags. He cautions that many young people dismiss these symptoms as minor soreness, only to delay care until damage becomes harder to reverse. “Persistent pain or swelling lasting more than a few weeks should not be ignored. Early diagnosis can prevent permanent joint damage,” he explains.
Prevention: practical steps for a younger audience
While arthritis cannot be prevented in every case, risk reduction is highly achievable through lifestyle changes. Dr. Rathi recommends maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active, and following an anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids. He suggests incorporating low-impact exercises such as swimming, cycling, and yoga to strengthen supporting muscles without placing excessive stress on joints.
Practical daily habits can also make a difference: take breaks from prolonged sitting, practice good posture, and ensure adequate vitamin D levels. He stresses that prevention begins with awareness and consistent, small changes that add up over time.
Treatment options: tailoring care to the individual
Dr. Rathi notes that arthritis treatment is highly personalized. Mild cases may respond to physiotherapy, targeted medications, and lifestyle adjustments, while certain autoimmune-related forms may require disease-modifying therapies to slow progression. When arthritis severely limits movement and quality of life, surgical interventions—such as joint replacement—offer meaningful improvement. Modern minimally invasive techniques and durable implants contribute to shorter recovery times and faster return to daily activities.
“Our joints are designed to last a lifetime. With timely care, regular exercise, and a healthy lifestyle, we can ensure that arthritis doesn’t dictate how we move, live, or enjoy life,” he concludes.
Key takeaway for World Arthritis Day 2025
The rising incidence of arthritis among younger adults serves as a reminder that joint health must be nurtured early. By combining preventive practices with early diagnosis and personalized treatment, individuals can maintain mobility and vitality well into later years. World Arthritis Day 2025 highlights a proactive approach—empowering young people to protect their joints today for a healthier tomorrow.
