DePuy Logo Some time ago, we had reported about Cartigen Healthcare and Dr. VG Vashishta opening clinics in Mumbai India for a non-invasive, cheap and painless alternative to knee replacement surgeries. It seems a lot of people are interested in this alternative yet very effective technique over the real thing. But, now an AC Nielsen Interactive survey shows that 46% of Indians suffering from joint problems are now considering surgery as a viable option.

This study which was released by DePuy Medical, a Johnson & Johnson company, aims to spread awareness about the impact of joint problems on the lives of patients and the importance of a surgical treatment approach to cure it.

The study covered a sample group of 133 respondents with a 43:57 male-female ratio across eight Indian cities including Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Kanpur, Lucknow, Baroda, Surat and Coimbatore.

The study found a very troubling fact which shows that over 58% of the respondents are trying out self-medication or even homemade recipes, which in fact tends to amplify the situation.

Key findings of the study:

  • The impact of knee joint problems hindered daily life of most respondents, and key triggers of pain include sitting on the floor, traveling long distances, squatting and bending.
  • 67% of the respondents did not have insurance to cover the treatment costs
  • The highest level of knee problems emerged in the income group of Rs.10,000-25,000 (51%)
  • 98% of the respondents relied on TV as the primary mode of entertainment indicating a sedentary lifestyle and lack of exercise
  • 39% of the respondents with knee joint problems were either retired (25%) or are unable to work (14%)

    • It is unfortunate that a number of people believe that knee pain is a part of aging. Ironically, they do want to gain relief from pain and immobility to regain their sense of independence and confidence.

    Dr. P.K. Banerji, Head of Department of Orthopedics, Peerless Hospital & B.K. Roy Research Centre, Kolkata commented saying, “India has over XX million people who are at a high risk for knee replacement. What is shocking to understand from the survey is that in fact the longer they delay specialist intervention, the worse the situation becomes.”

    Also, the respondents cited the following reasons for not visiting an orthopedic surgeon:

  • Fear (57%)
  • Natural phenomenon of Aging (57%)
  • Obesity (43%)
  • 38% believed that Home remedies were improving their condition

    • Since Arthritis is a degenerative condition, it can only get worse for those who suffer unless timely action is taken by visiting an orthopedic specialist before it’s too late.

    Mr. Anil Nayak, J&J spokesperson, said, “An alarming percentage of the Indian population is either suffering or susceptible to knee-joint ailments. The rotating platform high flexion knee that helps address day-to-day lifestyle issues is a perfect example of our insight and endeavor to help patients afflicted with joint problems. We at DePuy have been pioneers at introducing products that help patients.