BENGALURU: Bengaluru is witnessing a growing public health concern as more women are being diagnosed with bone and joint disorders much earlier than in previous decades.
Doctors across specialities say women in their mid-30s and 40s are now experiencing persistent joint pain, muscle cramps, and early fatigue, symptoms that were once common only after the age of 50.
The city’s IT-driven work culture has emerged as a key contributor. Long hours of desk work, extended commutes, and prolonged indoor living have drastically reduced physical activity and sunlight exposure among working women.
Doctors noted that this has led to widespread vitamin D deficiency and poor bone mineral density, a trend that intensified after the Covid-19 pandemic due to work-from-home routines.
Women aged 35 to 45 are increasingly reporting knee and joint pain, according to orthopaedic specialists. Dr JV Srinivas, Lead Senior Consultant - Orthopaedics & Joint Replacement at Aster RV Hospital, said delayed pregnancies have further aggravated the issue.
“Calcium loss is higher in late pregnancies, and without adequate time or lifestyle support to rebuild bone strength, women become vulnerable to early bone and cartilage degeneration,” he explained.
Symptoms are appearing much earlier than expected. Dr Banarji BH, Senior Consultant - Orthopaedics at Sakra World Hospital, said women in their mid-30s are now seeking treatment for conditions previously seen in their 50s.
“Prolonged sitting, work-related stress, and hormonal imbalance are weakening muscle and bone mass. Obesity and unsafe weight-loss methods, including unregulated medications and sudden intense workouts, are also causing ligament and joint injuries,” he added.
Hormonal health plays a crucial role in women’s bone strength. Dr Madhuri Vidyashankar P, Consultant Gynaecologist at Motherhood Hospitals, said early menopause, thyroid disorders, and autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis significantly increase osteoporosis risk.
“Estrogen protects bone density. When menopause occurs early, naturally or due to ovary removal during hysterectomy—fracture risk rises sharply. Ovaries should be conserved until at least 55 years unless medically necessary,” she advised.
Doctors emphasised that osteoporosis is preventable and treatable if detected early.
They recommended regular strength training, adequate calcium intake, vitamin D supplementation, sunlight exposure, and periodic DEXA scans, particularly for high-risk women, to prevent long-term disability and fractures.
