Muscle, Bone and Joint (earlier named Arthritis)

Rheumatologist Dr Pravin Patil sheds light on the complications of Rheumatoid Arthritis, the damage caused to various organs and joints and what you can do to prevent complications of RA. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) has very little identity of its own. Anything with “arthritis” is considered to be linked with old age, even though RA affects people in middle ages typically. Adding the prefix “rheumatoid” frequently adds little additional impact. The average individual has very little knowledge of…

Pallavi is a Bangalore-based ecommerce professional who was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis 4 years ago. She shares how she made diet and lifestyle changes to manage the condition. Last month, I went to my friend's son's birthday party; he was turning 8. After the cake was cut, when we all sat down to eat, all the kids were served pizza and garlic bread with cheese dip. I sat among the kids and took out my tiffin from my bag and started eating my millets upma. All the kids stared at me as…

Sanjeev Agrawal, 60, a Professor of Mathematics has been battling invisible illnesses all his life.  He reflects on how his responses to his daughter's challenges due to her invisible illnesses have been shaped by his experiences. #FathersDay series. Asked to write something for Father’s day for PatientsEngage, I go to the site and start wondering – do I write as a caregiver or as a patient? Rather than work out a theme, I decide to write about whatever comes, at this time, to my mind.…

An insightful and illuminating conversation with Kirtida Oza, who has lived with Sjogren's Syndrome for 30 years and is founder of Sjogren's India on the challenging symptoms of Sjogren's Syndrome and her experience in managing these symptoms. Click below to listen to Kirtida cover a wide range of topics:  What is Sjogren's Syndrome Her journey that led to a getting a diagnosis of Sjogren's Syndrome.  The challenges and complexities that relate specifically to managing Sjogrens…

Dr. Pravin Patil, Rheumatologist gives a comprehensive overview of Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and how it is different from spondylosis and regular back pain, tips on managing this condition and the role of exercise.   Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a disease of young adults. Regrettably, ankylosing spondylitis has very little identity unto its own. Anything with “spondylitis” is considered to be linked with old age or simple ‘wear and tear’. Adding the prefix “ankylosing”…

Dr Pravin Patil, Rheumatologist from Pune, Maharasthtra shares the top 7 mistakes that people with Rheumatoid Arthritis with respect to their medications. People with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are commonly prescribed several medications. It is very important to take medications regularly and follow correct instructions. It is the responsibility of the patients to know their medications well and avoid making mistakes, which can have serious consequences. Mistake No. 1: You take Methotrexate…

The patient-led Lupus Trust India is creating a holistic support network for Lupus patients in India. As they prepare for awareness campaigns for World Lupus Day,  watch this space for the resources they are putting together.  Contributed by Suzanne Sangi Ask any Lupus patient in India how they felt right after their diagnosis, and you’re sure to hear them say “It’s the first time I heard about Lupus” or “It felt like I was the only one”. Why? Because in India, nobody talks about this…

What is a Bone Scan? What do the results of the scan indicate? When do you need a Bone Scan? How often should you get a Bone Scan? We give you information that will help you discuss your options with your doctor. What is a Bone Scan  A Bone scan is done to check the bone mineral density (BMD) so as to assess strength of the bones and probability of any fractures. The scan helps identify any mild (osteopenia) or serious bone loss (osteoporosis). The most common bone density test is the DEXA…

People with type 2 diabetes are at an increased risk of developing frozen shoulder,  a sometimes severely painful condition in which there is reduced mobility of the shoulders, says Dr Girish Parmar, Consultant Endocrinologist, Nanavati Super Speciality Hospital. Is there a link between diabetes and muscle joint disorders? Yes there is a link between diabetes and musculoskeletal system. Diabetes is a metabolic disorder wherein the extra glucose in circulation sticks to the tissues.…

Coping with Arthritis? Stiffness in hips and knees? Stiff toes or stiff ankles? Upper body aches and pains? Stiffness in waist, back, hips, shoulders, neck? How can you ease the stiffness in your joints? Yoga is effective in managing arthritis. It reduces pain, increases flexibility, and lowers stress. It brings harmony to body and mind. We have worked with Divyayog to create a set of asanas for you to do in the comfort of your own home.  The asanas are organised in 2 ebooks. Please…