The month of May is recognized each year as the National Arthritis Awareness Month. In view of this, Shree Gunatit Jyot Mahila Trust, organized a ‘Knee Arthritis Camp’ for 30 days from 1st May to 30th May 2019 and was held at Pappaji Multitherapy Centre, Vallabh Vidyanagar.
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis of the knee. It is a degenerative, “wear-and-tear” type of arthritis that occurs most often in people 50 years of age and older, but can also occur in younger people too. In women, osteoarthritis is rare before the age of 45 years but its incidence increases significantly after the menopause (45-55 years). It is estimated that osteoarthritis, in particular osteoarthritis of the hand or knee, is generally twice as common in women than in men.
The first steps in conquering arthritis are learning the facts, understanding this condition and knowing that we at Pappaji Multitherapy Centre are here to help. Early diagnosis is important to prevent further damage. If not treated early, daily activities would be affected, reducing the quality of peoples’ life and affecting physical abilities. Delay is often due to a lack of awareness.
Walking has been shown to improve arthritis pain, fatigue and quality of life. Walking is a great way for people with arthritis to be physically active and so walking is strongly recommended – all adults, including adults with arthritis, should undertake 2 hours and 30 minutes (150 minutes) of moderate-intensity aerobic activity (i.e. brisk walking) per week and do muscle-strengthening activities two or more days a week.
187 participants were consulted by Dr. Pankajben Shah and Dr. Renukaben Vyas of Pappaji Multitherapy Centre, Vallabh Vidyanagar during this period of 30 days. Among the 187 participants, 145 were females and 42 were males. Among the females, 142 were diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis and 3 had rheumatoid arthritis. All of the males were diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis.
Free treatment comprising of ayurvedic/homeopathic medicine and ‘massage oil’ was given over a period of 10 to 15 days. Allopathic medicines such as calcium, Vitamin D and multivitamin supplements were also given to a few of the patients. Awareness sessions of exercises that patients should undertake on a daily basis were provided – these were shown on a screen continuously each day. The patients were also given advice on regular walking.
Shree Gunatit Jyot Mahila Trust would like to thank Dr. Pankaj Shah and staff of Pappaji Multitherapy Centre for the success and smooth conduction of this programme.