Nearly 200 million Indians are affected by arthritis-related pain, as nutritional gaps and sedentary lifestyles impact bone health at younger ages. According to experts, the daily Indian dietary pattern centered around tea, roti, and dal is increasingly contributing to declining bone health and early joint problems across age groups. “Hospitals are witnessing a growing number of patients in their 30s and 40s reporting knee pain, backache, and stiffness, conditions previously more common among the elderly,” cautioned Dr. Simon Thomas, Senior Director – Robotic Joint Replacements & Orthopedics at Max Super Speciality Hospital.
Studies say one in six Indians suffers from arthritis-related pain, with women accounting for almost two-thirds of cases, reflecting a widening national burden. Long-standing nutritional deficiencies are emerging as a significant contributor. Diets lacking adequate calcium, vitamin D, high-quality protein, and essential micronutrients gradually weaken bones and cartilage.
According to Dr Thomas, it is popularly assumed that regular home-cooked meals automatically meet all nutritional requirements. However, repeated patterns low in bone-supporting nutrients create gradual deficiencies. “Increasingly, younger patients are presenting with early cartilage thinning and reduced bone density that could have been prevented with timely correction,” Dr. Thomas noted.
Excessive tea consumption can further interfere with calcium absorption. At the same time, limited sunlight exposure worsens vitamin D deficiency, both of which are critical for bone strength.
Long hours of sitting and minimal physical activity reduce bone stimulation
Modern sedentary routines accelerate the problem. Long hours of sitting, minimal physical activity, and lack of weight-bearing exercise reduce bone stimulation, a key factor in maintaining bone density. Women are particularly vulnerable due to:
He emphasises that preventive orthopedic care must begin as early as the 30s. “Many young patients are unaware that everyday dietary habits, if not balanced properly, can silently compromise bone strength over the years. Preventive orthopaedics must begin in the 30s itself, focusing on nutritional correction, structured physical activity, and timely screening. Addressing these gaps early can significantly reduce the future burden of osteoarthritis and fragility fractures,” he said.
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According to Dr Mehra, early screening and lifestyle changes can prevent long-term damage. A few simple steps include:
(Inputs by: Dr. Arvind Mehra, Senior Director & Head of Orthopedics & Trauma at Paras Health)
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