Chamba medical college launches awareness campaign

In observance of National Bone and Joint Day, the Orthopaedics Department of Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru Government Medical College, Chamba, launched a public awareness campaign urging citizens to prioritise musculoskeletal health for a lifetime of mobility and well-being.

National Bone and Joint Day is observed across India on August 4 every year. It was initiated by the Indian Orthopaedic Association (IOA) in 2012 with the objective of raising awareness about the increasing burden of musculoskeletal disorders and encouraging people to adopt preventive and healthy lifestyle habits.

Musculoskeletal conditions — including arthritis, osteoporosis, back pain, joint injuries and spinal problems — are among the leading causes of disability globally, yet they often go unaddressed until symptoms worsen.

Dr Manik Sehgal, Associate Professor and Head of the Orthopaedics Department, stressed the importance of early intervention and preventive care. He said mobility is a silent blessing that people often take for granted until it is compromised. “On Bone and Joint Day, I urge everyone — from young adults to the elderly — to invest in their bone health. Balanced nutrition, regular physical activity and timely medical check-ups can help prevent painful conditions like osteoporosis and arthritis,” he stated.

Dr Sehgal also advised maintaining a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, engaging in low-impact exercise such as walking or yoga, practicing good posture — especially in desk-based occupations — avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption and undergoing routine evaluations to monitor bone and joint health.

This year’s theme, “Strong bones, resilient joints — build the foundation for a lifetime of movement,” underscores the message that a few mindful habits today can help avoid serious complications in the future.

The department expressed hope that the awareness campaign would inspire individuals of all age groups to take bone and joint health seriously and adopt a proactive approach toward well-being.