Are you stressed out about aching joints? Arthritis is a common disorder that affects the joints and surrounding tissues. It can be due to several factors, including the nature of one’s job, age, routine, and posture during work. The condition is more in women than in men, and the risk of developing arthritis increases with age.
There are different types of arthritis, and the symptoms can vary depending on the style. The most common symptoms are pain, stiffness, and inflammation. Arthritis can lead to joint damage and disability, a significant cause of pain and disability worldwide.
The new generation’s lifestyle may be causing arthritis. The factors contributing to the condition are the amount of time spent sitting, the use of computers and mobile phones, and the way we walk. All of these factors can lead to changes in our posture and joint movements. In addition, the increased use of social media and the sedentary nature of many jobs may be contributing to the development of arthritis.
How Does Modern Lifestyle Causes Arthritis
It’s no secret that the world is changing, and so is the new generation’s lifestyle.
We now spend more time inside, using gadgets and being enticed by overly processed, unhealthy foods. This kind of lifestyle is linked to various medical conditions, including arthritis.
Sedentary Lifestyle
The sedentary lifestyle of the new generation is a strong risk factor for developing arthritis.
Spending too much time in front of tablets and video games or watching TV is associated with an increased risk of arthritis.
This is because engaging in physical activities helps to prevent joint damage and the development of arthritis. And the new generation’s increasing attachment to electronic devices means they spend less time doing physical activity.
They’re spending less time physically active but also need more exercise and muscle development to protect against arthritic conditions.
A recent study by the University of Bath, UK, and the University of Washington, USA, has linked the “modern living” lifestyle to an increased risk of developing arthritis.
The researchers studied over 4000 adults aged 18-90 to explore the link between lifestyle, body weight, physical activity, and the prevalence and severity of arthritis.
The results showed that those exposed to “modern living,” such as using computers and mobile phones, had a much higher risk of developing and experiencing the more severe symptoms of arthritis.
The study also found that people who engaged in less frequent physical activity had a higher risk of developing arthritis.
Why are more young people getting arthritis?
The study showed that the prevalence of arthritis was higher in younger people, particularly those in their twenties and thirties. This is because younger generations engage in more sedentary activities and have more regularly used less-ergonomic occupations. There is also a suggestion that younger generations are more exposed to increased levels of stress and depression. This could lead to an increased risk of contracting arthritis.
The implications of this study are far-reaching. It suggests that if young generations don’t modify their lifestyle to reduce the risk of developing arthritis, then the prevalence and severity of the condition will continue to increase in the coming years. This could have a major societal impact due to the burden of arthritis-related healthcare costs, disability, and the pain and suffering associated with the condition.
Major types of arthritis due to lifestyle
The most common type of arthritis due to lifestyle is osteoarthritis. This type of arthritis occurs when the cartilage in the joints has worn away over time due to excessive strain, stress, overuse, or injury.
Other types of arthritis that may be due to lifestyle are
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Psoriatic arthritis
- Gout
- Ankylosing spondylitis
Role of modern bikes in developing arthritis
Modern bikes are becoming more popular, especially among the new generation. But these bikes can be a cause of arthritis as well. The thin cushioning on the saddle of these bikes can cause direct pressure on the hips, leading to the development of arthritis in the hip joint.
Three fundamental riding positions are Standard, Sport, and Cruiser.
In standard positioning, the neck is neutral, and the back is straight. The grips are comfortable for the shoulders and elbows.
Sport positioning causes injury because the body is always bending forward. The head is raised, while the feet are positioned behind the knees. Less comfort is provided.
The position of a cruiser is slightly reclined. The head is typically held high, the hips and pelvis are relaxed, and the feet are typically in front of the knee. This position is flexible.
Lack of a motorcycle fairing forces the rider to lean forward at faster speeds to keep control of the motorcycle, which wears the rider out.
Choose your mode of biking for a pain-free living!
The peril of an unhealthy diet
The new generation’s diet is also important. Inflammatory foods – like processed snacks, refined sugar, and unhealthy fats – can lead to inflammation in the body, worsening existing arthritis symptoms. It’s also important to remember that imbalanced diets can lead to deficiencies in vital nutrients, including calcium, which is necessary for healthy bones and joints.
A lack of calcium can lead to softer bones, meaning they may be more prone to cracking and damage –befalling joints closer to the risk of deterioration and arthritis.
Conversely, a healthy diet that includes whole grains, fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats, including omega-3 fatty acids, can help reduce the risk of developing arthritis. Supplementing vitamin D, vitamin C, and antioxidants in your diet may decrease your risk of developing arthritis.
Intake of sugar-sweetened beverages, red/processed meats, trans fats, and sodium intake. It has the largest impact on arthritis risk.
Role of alcohol consumption and Smoking
Excessive use of alcohol has been linked to an increased risk of developing arthritis. It is due to the inflammation caused by alcohol in the body, which can lead to joint damage. Therefore, those who drink should do so in moderation.
Cigarette smoking has the strongest evidence base that increases the risk for arthritis. Smoking may increase seropositive rheumatoid arthritis risk through gene-environment interactions, increasing inflammation and citrullination locally in pulmonary/oral mucosa or systemically, thereby inducing RA-related autoimmunity.
Inactiveness
Being physically inactive can enhance the risk of developing arthritis. Regular exercise can help reduce the risk by strengthening the muscles that support the joints and keeping them flexible. Exercise can also help reduce stress and improve overall health.
Stress
Stress is thought to be a major contributing factor to the development of arthritis. It can lead to inflammation in the body, increasing the risk of joint damage. Therefore, it is important to manage stress levels to help reduce the risk of arthritis.
Your Posture
Poor posture can have serious effects on your health.
Poor posture increases the pressure on your spine and can speed up osteoarthritis. It was noted that while an average person’s head weighs about twelve pounds, for every inch, the head is thrust forward from the shoulders, and an extra ten pounds of pressure is added to the lower back. In severe slouching, where the head is extended forward just three inches, 42 pounds of force are added to the lower back. Not only is this uncomfortable and even painful, but it can also speed up osteoarthritis.
A 2009 study showed that poor posture, especially the forward head position, can significantly increase the speed of joint damage in the spine, leading to health concerns like degenerative joint disease and osteoarthritis.
Overuse of Gadgets
Cell phones, as you know, can cause neck stiffness and end up in spinal degeneration. However, it is not possible to completely restrain from its use, but here are some tips for pain-free texting; let’s follow!
- Get a phone grip
- Don’t hold the phone while texting.
- Use a stylus
- Use smartphone features to minimize typing: Today’s smartphones provide many features that make it easier to text if you live with arthritis. Consider taking advantage of these features such as Voice dictation, Predictive text, Horizontal screens, etc.
- Use a ‘pencil test’ to check your wrist alignment.
- Use accessories to help your wrist stay neutral.
- Consider the height of your desk or typing surface.
- Avoid using a too-small keyboard.
- Remember to take frequent breaks.
How to prevent Arthritis due to Modern Lifestyle
The best way to prevent arthritis is to adopt a healthy lifestyle. This includes exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, managing stress levels, maintaining healthy body weight, and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption. Having a normal posture and taking frequent breaks from sitting can also help to reduce the risk.
In addition, it is important to manage stress levels and maintain a healthy body weight.
Conclusion
Arthritis is rising, and the new generation’s lifestyles are a major contributing factor.
Spending too much time indoors, using gadgets, and not getting enough exercise, as well as overeating and eating an unhealthy diet, are all contributing to the problem.
It’s important for the new generation to become more active and to eat a healthy, balanced diet.
Regular exercise and getting enough vitamin D and calcium are also essential.
Awareness of the risk factors, such as the use of electronics, and understanding how modern bikes can impact hip joints is also important. By taking steps to reduce their risk of developing arthritis, the new generation can help ensure healthier bones and joints for life.
