Dhaka: As age advances, various problems related to bone loss and pain tend to increase in the human body. To address these issues, relying solely on painkillers is not enough; rather, proper exercise and changes in daily lifestyle are essential. Chairman of the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Bangladesh Medical University (BMU), Professor Md. Abdus Shakoor, emphasized this in an interview with BSS.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Professor Shakoor explained that physical growth generally continues up to the age of 25, after which degenerative changes gradually begin. With increasing age, it is natural for various problems to appear, including diseases such as osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Additionally, younger people may suffer from ankylosing spondylitis, which, if not properly treated, can progress over the long term as age increases.
Professor Shakoor noted that in medical science, 'bone loss' is termed as osteoporosis, a condition more prevalent in women, especially after menopause. The rate of bone loss increases significantly during this stage, causing common pain in the waist, neck, and back. He emphasized that while many rely solely on painkillers for relief, this is not a complete solution. Rehabilitation, alongside medicines, plays a crucial role in treating these pains.
He further explained that rehabilitation involves teaching patients how to manage their daily lives properly, such as adopting correct sitting postures and proper computer use for those who work long hours on computers. Patients are also guided on aspects like bathroom usage and the necessity of a high commode, which helps reduce pain and prevent future complications.
Professor Shakoor illustrated age-related bone changes with a simple analogy: just as the head of a hammer becomes flattened with prolonged use, similar changes occur in human bones due to continuous walking and running, increasing the surface area of the bones, known as 'degenerative change'.
Discussing treatment methods and modern technology, the BMU professor highlighted that physical medicine employs various modalities alongside medication, including shortwave, microwave, ultrasound, infrared, electrotherapy, and ultraviolet radiation. Treatment is not limited to machines; guidance on maintaining proper daily activities is also provided.
On the role of exercise in recovery, Professor Shakoor stated that exercise is central to all treatments, as it not only keeps the body healthy but also helps prevent many diseases. Proper exercise strengthens joints, decreases pain, and improves mobility. However, it is crucial to know which type of exercise is suitable for each condition.
Professor Shakoor also pointed out that rural women often engage in activities that put pressure on the spine, leading to bone overgrowth and severe pain. He suggested environmental modifications, such as raising cooking stoves to an appropriate height or cooking while sitting on a stool or chair to reduce spine pressure.
He concluded by stressing the importance of consulting a physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist if a person suffers from paralysis or physical disability due to accidents or other causes. Physical medicine and rehabilitation combine medicines with exercise, therapy, guidance on daily activities, and environmental modifications to facilitate long-term recovery and a return to normal life.