Arthritis in Women – Dr. Amyn Rajani, an Expert in Joint Replacement & Arthroscopy, sheds light on the prevalent issue of arthritis among women.

Arthritis, characterized by joint inflammation, pain, and stiffness, affects millions of women worldwide. Dr. Rajani emphasizes the multifactorial nature of arthritis, including hormonal, genetic, and lifestyle factors that contribute to its higher prevalence in women.

Hormonal fluctuations, particularly changes in estrogen levels during menopause, can lead to increased inflammation and joint discomfort in women, as Dr. Rajani explains.

 Additionally, certain types of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, are more common in women due to hormonal influences.

Genetic predisposition is another aspect highlighted by Dr. Rajani, indicating that women with a family history of arthritis are at a higher risk of developing the condition. Lifestyle factors, including obesity and sedentary habits prevalent among women, further contribute to arthritis risk by exerting stress on weight-bearing joints.

Symptoms of arthritis, as outlined by Dr. Rajani, include joint pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced mobility. These symptoms can significantly impact daily activities and diminish quality of life for women living with arthritis.

Dr. Rajani emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive approach to managing arthritis in women. This includes medication such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) to alleviate pain and inflammation, physical therapy to improve joint function, and lifestyle modifications like weight management and regular exercise.

Complementary therapies such as acupuncture, massage, and heat/cold therapy are also recommended to provide additional relief. Psychological support is highlighted as essential, as chronic pain can have a profound impact on mental well-being.

As per Dr Rajani, if surgery in inevitable then one should opt for a Unicompartmental knee replacement (UKR), as it plays a crucial role in treating arthritis in women by specifically addressing localized joint damage.

Unlike total knee replacement, which replaces the entire knee joint, UKR targets only the affected compartment, preserving healthy tissue and promoting faster recovery. This approach is particularly beneficial for women with isolated knee arthritis, offering reduced pain, improved function, and better long-term outcomes compared to traditional Total Knee Replacement.