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Are you experiencing nagging knee pain that you're just trying to ignore? Leading South African orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Sujoy Bhattacharjee, Chairman of Robotic Joint Replacement at Max Super Speciality Hospital, is sounding the alarm: dismissing knee pain or relying solely on medication is a recipe for long-term problems. He stresses that our lifestyle choices play a *critical* role in the health and longevity of our knees.

In an increasingly sedentary world, many South Africans are unwittingly contributing to knee degeneration. Prolonged sitting, lack of exercise, and even poor posture can all put undue stress on these vital joints. Dr. Bhattacharjee emphasizes that knee pain isn't just a sign of aging; it's often a consequence of how we live.

Why Ignoring Knee Pain is a Big Mistake

Many people brush off knee pain as a minor inconvenience, hoping it will disappear on its own. Or they reach for painkillers to mask the discomfort, allowing them to continue their daily routines. However, this approach can be detrimental. Ignoring knee pain allows underlying issues, such as cartilage damage or inflammation, to worsen over time. This can lead to more serious conditions like osteoarthritis, requiring more invasive treatments down the line.

The Lifestyle Link: How Inactivity Impacts Your Knees

Dr. Bhattacharjee explains that our knees need movement and support. A lack of physical activity weakens the muscles surrounding the knee joint – the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles. These muscles act as shock absorbers, protecting the knee from impact. When they're weak, the knee bears a greater burden, accelerating wear and tear.

Here's a breakdown of how inactivity contributes to knee problems:

• Muscle Weakness: As mentioned, weak muscles fail to adequately support the knee.
• Weight Gain: Excess weight places additional pressure on the knee joints.
• Poor Posture: Incorrect posture can misalign the body, putting stress on the knees.
• Lack of Lubrication: Movement helps stimulate the production of synovial fluid, which lubricates the knee joint. Inactivity reduces this lubrication, leading to friction and pain.

What Can You Do? Simple Steps for Knee Health

The good news is that it's *never* too late to take control of your knee health. Dr. Bhattacharjee recommends incorporating these lifestyle changes:

• Regular Exercise: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week. This could include walking, swimming, cycling, or yoga.
• Strength Training: Focus on strengthening the muscles around your knees. Squats, lunges, and leg presses are excellent choices (consult a physiotherapist for proper form).
• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Losing even a small amount of weight can significantly reduce the stress on your knees.
• Improve Posture: Be mindful of your posture throughout the day.
• Listen to Your Body: Don't push through pain. Rest and seek professional advice if needed.

Advanced Treatments: Robotic Joint Replacement

For those with severe knee damage, robotic joint replacement surgery may be an option. Dr. Bhattacharjee is a leading expert in this advanced technique, which uses robotic assistance to ensure precise implant placement and improved outcomes. However, he emphasizes that lifestyle modifications should be the first line of defense.

Don't let knee pain hold you back. Take proactive steps to protect your knees and enjoy an active, pain-free life. Consult with your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional for personalized advice.