Early treatment of joint and back pain can prevent aggravation

KARACHI: Ignoring back and joint pain can lead to rapid exacerbation of bone diseases and can evolve into a recurring problem if left without diagnosis and treatment.

This was advised by physiotherapy experts speaking at a seminar held at the Jinnah Sindh Medical University (JSMU) to mark the World Physical Therapy Day.

Dr Saeed Akhtar, Head of Physiotherapy at the Dow University of Health Sciences (DUHS), drew attention to the importance of treating knee pain as soon as possible as knee pain prevents the person from walking which in turn leads to weight gain and multiple other health problems. He said that knee pain is treatable, but early intervention is essential for successful treatment and avoiding complications.

Dr Farheen Hasnain, Cardiac Rehabilitation In-charge at the DUHS also stressed on the importance of exercise. Research has proven that light exercise results in a definite reduction in joint pain in elderly patients, she notified.

Dr Ghazala Noor, Principal, Jinnah College of Rehabilitation Sciences, elaborated on the utility of ergonomics. She advised the audience to take a light activity break after every 40 minutes of sedentary work. She also emphasized on the need for maintaining a good posture and providing suitable chairs and workstations in offices to help promote employee health and fitness.

Dr Mohammad Khan, Director, JSMU Institute of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation, shared that the number of patients coming with back pain complaints was on the rise. These patients belong to every age group, he said warning against ignoring the condition, which could lead to more significant damage and can threaten the overall well-being of the patients.

In-charge, Continued Medical Education Programme at JSMU, Dr Rahat Naz, emphasized on how bone health awareness is essential for every human being.

Vice-Chancellor, JSMU, Prof S M Tariq Rafi, said that bones are like pillars for the human body and knowledge about bone and structure ailments must be made widely available to everyone for awareness and early action.