As of today, back, knee, and other joint pains are one of the main reasons people seek specialists. These ailments affect not only the elderly but also the youth. The main factors contributing to these problems include a sedentary lifestyle, prolonged computer work, excess weight, and improper self-treatment, which can ultimately lead to serious pathologies. Orthopedist of the highest category Sovetbek Kazakov shared insights on the causes of the rise in musculoskeletal disorders, the dangers of self-treatment, and ways to maintain joint health in an interview with VB.KG.
- Why has the number of people with back and joint pain increased lately?
- Musculoskeletal disorders have been known since ancient times. Archaeological findings show that even in ancient times, people tried to treat bone injuries. I have been working in this field for about 40 years and can say that such problems have always existed. However, today patients are becoming more informed and are visiting doctors more often, as medicine has become more accessible.
Nevertheless, most of them initially try to cope with problems on their own, using massage, stretching, and anti-inflammatory medications. Only when the disease takes a severe form, with nerve compression and severe pain, do they seek help from an orthopedist.
- So, is self-treatment not a solution?
- Absolutely. Self-treatment can lead to serious consequences. Many patients come to us after visiting chiropractors, and their condition worsens. In some cases, surgical intervention is required, which might not have been necessary if they had consulted a doctor in a timely manner.
- What factors do specialists most often point to in spinal and joint diseases?
- There are many reasons, but the most common are excess weight, heavy physical labor, and an unhealthy lifestyle. Excess weight creates additional stress on the joints and spine, accelerating cartilage wear and leading to osteoarthritis and herniated discs.
Additionally, constant heavy loads on the spine also negatively affect its health.
- How does prolonged sitting at a computer affect spinal health?
- This is a serious problem. Long periods at the computer disrupt posture, increase the load on the spine, and can lead to back pain. Vision and overall health also deteriorate, so it is important to properly arrange the workspace and take regular breaks. Even 5-10 minutes of activity throughout the day can significantly reduce the load on the spine.
- What orthopedic problems are most common in children?
- In children, congenital pathologies are common, such as hip dysplasia, which is more often seen in girls. Thanks to modern diagnostic methods, newborns undergo regular check-ups. If a pathology is detected at an early stage, it can be successfully treated. Otherwise, if parents seek help too late, it can lead to serious joint deformities.
- What should parents pay attention to?
- Any deviations in a child's development should raise concerns: improper gait, asymmetry of skin folds on the legs, or limb shortening. In such cases, it is necessary to consult an orthopedist.
- What is your opinion on independently purchasing orthopedic insoles?
- This is not always the right decision. Many choose insoles based on recommendations from friends or acquaintances. However, if there is flatfoot or other deformities, insoles should be selected individually using special examinations, such as plantography.
- Can excess weight be a cause of joint and spinal diseases?
- Yes, it is one of the main risk factors. Excess weight increases the load on the joints and spine, leading to cartilage destruction and the development of osteoarthritis.
- But sometimes even slender people suffer from joint problems. Why does this happen?
- This may be related to excessive physical loads or professional sports. I always emphasize: sports are for athletes, while physical education is for health. Professional athletes are subjected to significant loads, and after 40-50 years, many of them face health issues.
Therefore, for ordinary people, it is better to engage in physical education than to overload the body.
- What modern treatment methods are used in orthopedics?
- Medicine is rapidly advancing, and today modern technologies and implants are used. We can perform replacements of hip, knee, shoulder, and ankle joints. After such operations, patients return to an active life and can move without pain.
- What role does heredity play in the development of joint diseases?
- Heredity is also very important. There are genetic diseases of the joints and bones, and young people aged 18-20 can face serious problems related to hereditary factors, which require more complex treatment.
- What habits contribute to maintaining joint health?
- The main thing is movement. It is necessary to walk more, engage in physical activity, and do morning exercises. Even 10-15 minutes of exercise a day can significantly improve the condition of the spine and joints. Unfortunately, many lead a sedentary lifestyle, which also negatively affects health.
- Should one consult an orthopedist if nothing bothers them?
- A preventive check-up can be very useful. Sometimes a doctor can identify a problem at an early stage when the patient does not yet feel pain. Early diagnosis allows avoiding serious diseases and maintaining joint health for many years.
