Chronic knee pain is a very debilitating issue all across the world. Many people suffer with knee problems, especially as they get older, and if they are left untreated they can become increasingly worse causing pain and even disability in extreme cases. But even though there are problems worldwide, Singapore is actually one of the worst places.
The numbers are especially worrying. Around half of all Singaporeans have been or are affected by chronic knee pain. Of these, only about 50 percent visited the doctor, and even then, they usually waited an average of 13 months before they sought any form of treatment. Healthcare company Sanofi revealed these findings in a survey conducted to mark World Arthritis Day.
Knee osteoarthritis, which is the most common form of arthritis, is a degenerative disease that affects the cartilage of the knee joint. The cartilage in the knee that cushions the bones and allows them to move and bend wears away. When bones rub together it causes inflammation which can cause stiffness, discomfort and pain.
It has also been revealed that around 73 percent of Singaporeans are at risk of having knee osteoarthritis due to certain factors in their lifestyle. These risk factors include taking part in high-impact sports that can put excessive pressure on the joints as well as genetic factors and leading a sedentary lifestyle.
Interestingly, around 78 percent of people from Singapore believe that there is a cure for osteoarthritis. Unfortunately the reality is that there is no cure for this degenerative condition. However, there are ways that you can limit wear and tear which can stop the disease from occurring and slow its progress if you already have it.
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