Bangalore: With the onset of monsoon and decreasing night temperatures, those with arthritis are in for a difficult time. "Some kinds of arthritis can be prevented or delayed. They need not cause undue loss of mobility," Manish Samson, surgeon at HOSMAT Joint Replacement Centre said.

Inflammation or swelling of joints can occur either due to injury, infection, disease and degeneration, or wearing out of joints. Age is not always the cause, as infants and middle-aged people are also affected. It can affect any joint in the body and if not treated, can make an active person wheelchair bound, depressed, and disabled.

"Osteoarthritis (OA) or degenerative arthritis is what affects most people. This is usually found in old people and is directly related to the natural wear and tear of the primary joints of the body, forcing patients to use walking aids, pain killers, as mobility is steadily reduced," Dr. Samson said. While OA cannot be prevented, it can be postponed. The course of arthritis can be slowed down by lifestyle modifications, weight reduction programmes and physiotherapy.

Where no other complications exist, surgery promises almost complete relief from pain, deformity and disability. Surgery for the hip ranges from partial joint replacement through surface replacement to total hip replacement. Knee surgery ranges from half knee replacement to complete knee replacement.

"Joint replacement is a surgery of precision where the margin of error has to be zero," Thomas Chandy, Director of HOSMAT, said.

These procedures require special modular implants and with the help computer navigation, even a grossly damaged and or deformed joint can be restored with precision. A free check-up camp is being organised by the Rotary Club of Bangalore on Sunday and those interested can call 22353202 or 22352961.

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