While all body types and every individual’s right to maintain their own healthy journey is celebrated by society, however, research shows that obesity and excessive weight can increase your chances of developing chronic illnesses like arthritis.
Research by reputed organizations have shown that 1 in every 3 obese people have been diagnosed with arthritis.
At 1 Health Medical Centre, our team of expert orthopaedics are dedicated to providing you with the best in town treatment for your arthritis care and prevention. Now, let’s try to dive deeper into the ways that obesity and excess weight can contribute to developing and/or worsening arthritis.
How Fat can Contribute to Osteoarthritis
The two types of Arthritis are osteoarthritis, which involves a physical deterioration of joint cartilage, and rheumatoid arthritis, which is an inflammatory disease.
The most common type of arthritis is Osteoarthritis, affecting millions of people around the world! Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage that supports or cushions your joints breaks down due to impact or excess pressure.
Carrying excess weight can result in putting extra pressure on your joints, resulting in eventual wear and tear on the cartilage because of increased pressure. This becomes an issue as it is a door to other issues like nerve damage, bone rubbing, pain, and decreased mobility.
The sad truth is that every 500 gms of additional weight adds about 2 kgs of extra pressure on your joints! For example, although you may be only around 5 kgs overweight, you’re actually putting close to 18 kgs of extra pressure on your joints, which can be seriously damaging.
How Fat can Contribute to Rheumatoid Arthritis
Not only does excess fat increase your chances of developing osteoarthritis, but it can also cause another type of arthritis called rheumatoid arthritis. Extra fat in your body releases inflammatory chemicals in your body. This type of inflammation increases your chances of developing rheumatoid arthritis.
The Advantages of Maintaining a Healthy Weight
Every individual’s body is different, our experts at 1 Health Medical Centre can help you figure out the healthy weight range for your unique body type. However, if you are obese or overweight, there are some amazing benefits to losing excess fat and maintaining a healthy weight, whether you already are dealing with arthritis or feel concerned about developing it.
These benefits include:
Reduction in pain (especially if you’re already dealing with arthritis)
Reduction in inflammation
Better joint function and mobility
Better overall health
If you are dealing with pain related to Arthritis, or if you are worried about developing it, especially if you’re obese or overweight, our team of experienced Rheumatologists at 1 Health Medical Centre can help you get through your suffering.
Stop procrastinating and get started on your journey to achieving a healthier weight and better overall health. Call 1 Health Medical Centre, today!
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