Young adults battle old-age joints

A local physiotherapist is warning that young adults are now showing joint problems once seen only in seniors, with patients in their 20s already experiencing early signs of degeneration.

Stephen Moncrieffe, chief executive officer of Above and Beyond Therapy, says the surge is fueled by sedentary lifestyles, modern conveniences, and minimal daily movement. "It's not just athletes any more," Moncrieffe told THE STAR.

"Even regular nine-to-five workers are coming in with these issues."

He attributes the shift to modern conveniences that have significantly cut down physical activity.

"We're not as physical as we were before. Back then, people walked longer distances and were more active. Now a sedentary lifestyle is creeping in," he said. "Some people work eight hours a day and barely move. The only activity they get might be walking from the car to their desk and back home."

According to Moncrieffe, the knee is the most commonly affected joint, followed by the lower back and wrists.

"As technology improves, we don't have to do as much. Convenience is actually working against us," he said. "We don't see the same level of recreational activity any more."

While joint degeneration was traditionally expected in older adults, Moncrieffe says he now sees it frequently among people aged 28 to 40. "You usually wouldn't see it so early in that age group," he noted.

He explained that women over 50 are naturally at higher risk due to bone density changes after menopause, but younger people are increasingly showing pre-arthritis and periarthritis changes.

"It's mainly because of a lack of consistent physical activity," he said.

Some health authorities and practitioners often encourage at least 30 minutes of daily physical activity--a target Moncrieffe believes many fail to meet.

"Strengthening has to be done intentionally, and most people aren't doing that," he told THE STAR.

He urged young adults to seek early screening from medical professionals, including orthopaedic doctors and physiotherapists.

"We can identify problems early and reduce how aggressive they become," he said, stressing that physical check-ups should be treated like other routine health screenings.

Moncrieffe also warned against rushing into gym routines without professional guidance, particularly at the start of the year when fitness resolutions peak.

"Sometimes the body isn't prepared. Muscle imbalances develop--some muscles work well, others don't. The more active you become without guidance, the faster you can degenerate your joints," he said.

He advised that structured assessments should be done before starting exercise programmes. "Let professionals guide you based on your body's needs," he said.

Moncrieffe stressed that prevention is critical. "Young people need to be proactive. Early screening can prevent serious problems later and save money in the long run."

He said that many patients only seek help when their condition is advanced. "By then, it's harder to reverse," he said.