Saina Nehwal has hinted at the possibility of retiring due to arthritis, a condition that has been affecting her mobility and overall athletic performance. Arthritis, particularly when it affects athletes, can be debilitating, impacting not just their professional lives but their day-to-day activities as well. Experts weigh in on how arthritis can affect physical function and how advances in treatment offer hope.
According to Dr Sunil Gurpur Kini, Head of Department and Senior Consultant for Joint Replacement, Manipal Hospitals, Bengaluru, “Arthritis is a condition resulting from the inflammation of the joints, causing pain and stiffness.” This wear and tear of cartilage—the cushioning material between joints—can make even simple movements difficult and uncomfortable. Dr Kini further explains that common symptoms include:
- Pain in the joints, especially during movement.
- Stiffness, which is usually worse after waking up or prolonged inactivity.
- Swelling around the joints, making them tender to the touch.
- Reduced flexibility or range of motion.As the cartilage breaks down, the bones may rub against each other, intensifying the pain and limiting mobility. For individuals like Saina Nehwal, who rely heavily on their physical fitness, this gradual decrease in flexibility and comfort makes even basic tasks seem daunting, let alone competing at the highest level of sport.
Dr. Mahesh Kulkarni, Senior Joint Replacement Surgeon, Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital, Pune, highlights how arthritis impacts daily activities and professional lives, especially for athletes. “For most individuals, arthritis brings about mobility issues that interfere with everyday activities,” Dr. Kulkarni states. Common tasks such as climbing stairs, bending, standing, and even sleeping can become uncomfortable. He adds that athletes face even more significant challenges: “In professions that require physical activity, such as sports, arthritis can severely affect performance, forcing many athletes to consider early retirement.”
In Saina Nehwal’s case, the constant pain and stiffness caused by arthritis have made her reconsider her future in badminton. The condition can hinder not only her performance on the court but also her ability to train and compete effectively. Reduced flexibility, endurance, and overall movement can make it difficult to meet the high physical demands of a sport that requires speed, agility, and precision.
Despite the profound impact arthritis can have on an athlete’s career, advancements in medical technology offer promising solutions. Dr. Kulkarni explains that modern treatment options have improved dramatically. “From conservative treatments like medications, physiotherapy, and lifestyle changes to more advanced options such as minimally invasive meniscal or ligament repairs, or even robotic arm-assisted joint replacement surgeries, patients with arthritis can achieve better outcomes and enjoy a higher quality of life.” These interventions can help alleviate pain and restore mobility, allowing patients to resume many of their normal activities, and in some cases, return to professional sports.
While the potential of an early retirement for Saina Nehwal is heartbreaking for fans and sports enthusiasts, it serves as a reminder of the profound effect arthritis can have on one’s daily life. As Dr. Kini notes, arthritis is not just a physical challenge but also an emotional one, as it often impacts an individual’s sense of independence. Nonetheless, with timely medical intervention and advanced treatments, it is possible to manage the condition and improve the quality of life for those affected by arthritis.
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