Dr explains: How modern lifestyles are fuelling the 'tech neck' epidemic and orthopaedic ailments

Modern life, with its long hours spent sitting at desks, constant screen time and increasingly sedentary habits is taking a silent toll on our bodies. Musculoskeletal conditions are on a sharp rise globally, becoming a leading cause of pain and disability.

According to a 2023 World Health Organization (WHO) report, approximately 1.71 billion people worldwide are affected by musculoskeletal conditions, with low back pain being the single leading cause of disability in 160 countries.

In India, this trend is particularly concerning, as a growing number of young professionals and even children are presenting with orthopedic issues once seen primarily in the elderly. From chronic back pain and early-onset arthritis to a surge in sports-related injuries, the strain on our bones, joints and spine has never been greater.

Firstpost talked to Dr. Sushil Sharma, Senior Consultant (Joint & Knee Replacement Surgeon) at Kailash Hospital to understand the rising tide of these orthopedic complications, the risk factors and the preventive measures we can take.

Excerpts

Most common orthopedic complications today and causes 

Dr Sharma: From an orthopedic perspective, there are several prevalent complications we encounter today, such as joint deterioration resulting from osteoarthritis, fractures related to osteoporosis, injuries to ligaments and tendons from sports activities, and spinal disorders associated with sedentary lifestyles. The increasing rates of obesity and diabetes also lead to slower healing and greater complication rates following orthopedic procedures. The growing prevalence of lifestyle-related musculoskeletal issues, along with age-related degeneration, indicates that orthopedic complications are increasingly becoming a major concern for both younger and older demographics. Some more complications that are getting concerning in today’s time are mentioned below:

• Osteoarthritis – Rising due to sedentary lifestyles, obesity, and aging population.

• Osteoporosis & Fragility Fractures – More common with increasing life expectancy and poor bone health. It also aggravates due to alcohol, smoking and steroid abuse.

• Spinal Disorders – Herniated discs, spondylosis, and chronic back pain linked to prolonged sitting, poor posture, and excessive screen time.

• Sports & Overuse Injuries – Stress fractures, ligament tears (ACL, meniscus), and tendonitis becoming frequent among both professional athletes and fitness enthusiasts.

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome & Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI) – Increasing with higher computer and smartphone usage.

• Pediatric Orthopedic Issues – Flatfoot, scoliosis, and childhood obesity, deformities–related bone/joint problems.

• Hip & Knee Replacement Complications – Rising with the growing number of joint replacement surgeries.

• Post-traumatic Complications – Non-union or malunion of fractures, infections, and implant-related issues after accidents.

• Metabolic Bone Diseases – Vitamin D deficiency and related complications causing weakened bones, especially in urban populations.

• Orthopedic Infections – Increasing cases of osteomyelitis and prosthetic joint infections due to antibiotic resistance.

Are young adults facing more spine issues?

Dr Sharma**:** Indeed, there is a noticeable increase in joint and spine issues among younger adults. Inactive lifestyles, extended periods of sitting, improper posture, and insufficient physical activity play significant roles, frequently resulting in early back discomfort, disc problems, and joint rigidity.

Why are orthopedic surgery infection rates high?

Dr Sharma: In orthopedic cases, post-surgical infections are indeed becoming an increasing concern, as demonstrated by ICMR studies. Elements like antibiotic resistance, unmanaged diabetes, lengthy surgeries, insufficient sterilisation, and slow wound healing contribute to elevated infection rates. A comprehensive strategy is needed: steadfast compliance with infection control protocols, careful use of antibiotics, enhanced perioperative management of diabetes and other health issues, improved surgical methods, and educating patients on cleanliness and wound care. Implementing these strategies can greatly reduce the risks of infection.

How crucial is post-surgery follow-up to catch infections early?

Dr Sharma: Post-surgery follow-up plays a vital role in preventing complications, particularly surgical site infections (SSIs), which are among the most common postoperative issues. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), SSIs account for nearly 20% of all healthcare-associated infections worldwide, significantly affecting recovery and increasing healthcare costs. Early detection through routine follow-up can help identify subtle signs such as redness, swelling, pain, or discharge at the surgical site before they progress into severe, systemic infections.

Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests that patients who miss follow-up appointments are 30% more likely to develop undetected SSIs, often requiring re-hospitalization. Timely clinical evaluation, wound assessment, and monitoring of vitals during follow-up visits allow surgeons to intervene early with antibiotics or minor procedures, thus reducing the risk of sepsis, implant failure, or prolonged disability.

In today’s context, where lifestyle diseases and antibiotic resistance are on the rise, structured post-surgical follow-up not only ensures faster recovery but also improves patient safety, reduces healthcare burden, and enhances long-term surgical outcomes.

Do obesity and diabetes raise orthopedic risks?

Dr Sharma: Yes, both obesity and diabetes greatly heighten the likelihood of orthopedic issues. Excess body mass exerts extra pressure on joints and the spine, speeding up degeneration, whereas diabetes can hinder the healing of bones, raise the risk of infections, and prolong recovery following surgeries or injuries.

Obesity places excessive mechanical stress on weight-bearing joints like the knees, hips, and spine. This accelerates cartilage degeneration, making individuals more prone to osteoarthritis, chronic back pain, and joint deformities. Studies suggest that overweight individuals are 4–5 times more likely to develop knee osteoarthritis compared to those with a healthy weight. Additionally, obesity complicates orthopedic surgeries, as higher body mass index (BMI) is associated with longer recovery times, greater surgical difficulty, and increased risk of post-operative infections.

Diabetes, on the other hand, affects bone and joint health through metabolic and vascular changes. Poorly controlled blood sugar leads to delayed wound healing, reduced bone mineral density, and higher susceptibility to infections. Diabetic patients are at increased risk of conditions like Charcot joint (neuropathic arthropathy), frozen shoulder, and impaired fracture healing. Data from the American Diabetes Association shows that diabetics undergoing orthopedic surgery have 50–100% higher risk of infection and complications compared to non-diabetics.

Together, obesity and diabetes not only increase the likelihood of developing orthopedic problems but also make their treatment and recovery far more challenging.

How do calcium or vitamin D deficiencies affect bones?

Dr Sharma: Calcium and vitamin D are crucial for maintaining healthy bones. A lack of these nutrients can result in decreased bone density, osteoporosis, and a higher risk of fractures. In orthopedic care, individuals with insufficient levels of these vitamins frequently suffer from slower healing, weakened bone integrity, and greater vulnerability to joint and spine problems.

How can gym-goers prevent bone and joint injuries?

Dr Sharma: With the growing fitness culture, gym-related injuries are becoming more common, especially those affecting joints, ligaments, and bones. Preventive measures are essential to ensure safe workouts and long-term musculoskeletal health.

• Warm-up and Cool-down: Begin with 5–10 minutes of light cardio and dynamic stretches to prepare muscles and joints; end with cool-down stretches to reduce stiffness.

• Progress Gradually: Avoid sudden increases in weight, intensity, or repetitions. Following the “10% rule” (increase load by no more than 10% per week) lowers injury risk.

• Correct Technique: Poor posture and form are the leading causes of gym injuries. Training under professional supervision, especially for complex lifts, is crucial.

• Use Supportive Gear: Weight belts, wrist straps, and knee sleeves can provide stability during heavy lifting. Proper footwear ensures balance and shock absorption.

• Balanced Training: Over-focusing on one muscle group strains joints. Include strength, flexibility, and mobility exercises in routine.

• Adequate Rest: Rest days allow muscles and connective tissues to repair, preventing overuse injuries like tendonitis or stress fractures.

• Nutrition & Hydration: Sufficient protein, calcium, vitamin D, and fluids support bone strength and joint function.

• Listen to Your Body: Ignoring persistent pain or swelling can worsen minor strains into serious injuries. Early medical consultation prevents long-term damage.

Rising early-onset arthritis, slip disc or back pain and causes 

Dr Sharma:  Yes, there is a noticeable rise in cases of early-onset arthritis, slip disc, and chronic back pain among young professionals, a trend once primarily associated with older age groups. Several lifestyle and occupational factors are driving this increase:

• Sedentary Work Culture: Long hours of sitting at desks with poor ergonomics put constant pressure on the spine, leading to posture-related disorders, disc problems, and early joint degeneration.

• Lack of Physical Activity: Reduced movement during the day weakens core and back muscles, making the spine and joints more vulnerable to injuries.

• Overuse of Digital Devices: Prolonged smartphone and laptop use contributes to “tech neck” and spinal misalignment.

• Obesity and Poor Diet: Extra body weight accelerates cartilage wear, especially in the knees, while nutrient deficiencies (calcium, vitamin D) compromise bone health.

• Stress and Irregular Sleep: These increase muscle stiffness and reduce the body’s ability to repair micro-injuries.

• Improper Workouts: Sudden, untrained gym routines or heavy lifting without guidance often trigger ligament or disc injuries in younger individuals.

If unchecked, these factors can lead to chronic orthopedic conditions much earlier in life, highlighting the need for preventive care, ergonomic practices, and regular exercise.

Self-diagnosing bone or back pain risks

Dr Sharma: Self-diagnosing bone or back discomfort by following social media trends can be quite dangerous. Misunderstanding symptoms can result in postponed treatment, unsuitable exercises, or incorrect medication usage, which could aggravate the situation. It’s important to see an orthopedic specialist without delay if pain lasts more than a week, intensifies over time, interferes with daily activities, is accompanied by numbness or weakness, or occurs after an injury.