Life has certainly been made easier through modern amenities, but this also leads to a sedentary lifestyle which adversely affects physical health. desk jobsHours spent scrolling through screens, and a myriad of similar practices, means the human body now pays a price for sitting constantly. advanced physiotherapy Its demand is continuously increasing, however, it is less appreciated.

The World Health Organization has consistently pointed to physical inactivity as one of the most important risk factors for non-communicable diseases. “In addition to diabetes, obesity and heart disease, the silent killer of a sedentary lifestyle is also debilitating musculoskeletal system, chronic back painneck stiffness, joint issues, and early onset arthritis It is caused by sitting for a long time, poor postureand lack of physical activity,” says Dr. Sachin Sethi (PT), Principal Lead-Advanced Physio Care Clinic, Artemis Hospitals.

Technology, which is a double-edged sword in every way, is a major contributor to the problem. Cultures of binge-watching, remote working, and online gaming have severely reduced time spent moving around. Therefore, symptoms of diseases are appearing in young people herniated discRepetitive stress injuries, and reduced flexibility, characterize the aging population.

Physiotherapy, once a niche solution for rehabilitation after injuries and surgeries, has now become much more. “It covers not only injuries, but also lifestyle-induced conditions that require professional attention,” says Dr. Sethi. He said that physiotherapists use a variety of techniques, ranging from manual therapy and dry needling to the most advanced techniques. Laser Therapy and Electrical StimulationTo reduce pain and restore mobility.

Physiotherapy has a preventive dimension that is usually underestimated. Dr. Sethi says identifying movement patterns and muscle imbalances can help physical therapists avoid chronic conditions in individuals. He gives an example: “Teaching ergonomics when designing individual exercise plans can lead to major improvements in posture, strengthening the core and reducing joint stress.”

Psychological and economic effects

Apart from the physical effects, the psychological and financial burden is equally dire. According to him, chronic pain and immobility lead to feelings of suffering and depression which lead to a vicious cycle of inactivity and deterioration in mental health. This affects productivity, relationships and general quality of life.

The problems of a sedentary lifestyle are too costly to bear financially. Dr. Sethi says, “Millions are spent annually in terms of pain management, surgeries and long-term care. Advanced physiotherapy helps the individual address the root cause rather than just managing the symptoms and provides a cost-effective solution Is.”

Physiotherapy is neglected in India due to lack of awareness, resulting in increased dependence on painkillers and unverified treatments. Dr. Sethi explains that advanced physiotherapy techniques like rehabilitation provide many benefits by strengthening the body even before the injury occurs to prevent long-term damage.

“Balance training and posture analysis are some of the key components in physiotherapy that can help determine imbalances within the body, which are then corrected before these imbalances lead to pain or injury,” he says, adding that training benefits muscles. Works on increasing strength and flexibility to improve overall movement and functioning.

According to Dr. Sethi, preventive tools like TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) machine, ultrasound therapy and cryotherapy are essential for early stage intervention, reducing pain and facilitating healing. Increasing awareness of and improving access to these options can lead to major improvements in health care outcomes.

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