Ortho Clinic in Mohali Archives

Nutrition and Rheumatoid Arthritis: Foods To Eat & Avoid

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation, pain, and stiffness in the joints. While there is no cure for RA, dietary changes can help manage symptoms and improve overall health. In this blog post, we’ll explore the foods to eat and avoid for those living with RA.

Foods to Eat

1. Fatty Fish

Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids with anti-inflammatory properties. Omega-3s help reduce the production of inflammatory chemicals in the body, which can help alleviate joint pain and stiffness. An E3N Cohort study found that consuming fish 2-3 times per week may help reduce inflammation in RA patients.

2. Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are packed with antioxidants, which help combat inflammation. Berries, in particular, are high in anthocyanins, a type of antioxidant that has been shown to reduce inflammation. Leafy greens like spinach and kale are also rich in antioxidants and nutrients that can help reduce inflammation. According to this study, a diet rich in fruits and vegetables may help improve RA symptoms.

3. Whole Grains

Whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and oats are high in fiber, which can help reduce inflammation. Fiber helps promote the growth of healthy gut bacteria, which can help reduce inflammation throughout the body. Whole grains are also rich in nutrients like magnesium and selenium, which have anti-inflammatory properties.

4. Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds like almonds, walnuts, and flaxseeds are rich in healthy fats, fiber, and nutrients that can help reduce inflammation in the body. Walnuts, in particular, are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties. Flaxseeds are also high in omega-3s and lignans, a plant compound shown to reduce inflammation.

Foods to Avoid

1. Processed Foods

Processed foods like chips, cookies, and frozen dinners are high in unhealthy fats, added sugars, and sodium, which can increase inflammation. These foods are also often low in nutrients and fibre, contributing to poor gut health and increased inflammation. Medical News Today explains that a diet high in processed foods may worsen RA symptoms.

2. Red Meat

Red meat, mainly processed meats like hot dogs and bacon, is high in saturated fat and may increase inflammation. Saturated fat has been shown to increase the production of inflammatory chemicals in the body, which can worsen joint pain and stiffness. Some researchers have shown that a diet high in red meat may worsen RA symptoms.

3. Alcohol

Alcohol can interact with RA medications and may worsen inflammation in the body. Alcohol can also contribute to poor gut health, which can increase inflammation throughout the body. This study found that excessive alcohol consumption may increase the risk of developing RA.

The Bottom Line

Dietary changes can be an effective way to manage RA symptoms and improve overall health. Incorporating more fatty fish, fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds into your diet while limiting processed foods, red meat, and alcohol may help reduce inflammation and improve joint health.

If you’re looking for personalized treatment options for RA, consider contacting Dr. Manu Mengi. With years of experience in the field, Dr. Manu Mengi is the Best Rheumatoid Arthritis Specialist in Chandigarh who can help develop a tailored treatment plan to manage your RA symptoms and improve your quality of life. Don’t let RA control your life – take control of your health today.

June 13, 2024 / by Manu

Understanding the Signs and Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the joints, causing inflammation, pain, and stiffness.

The Leading Arthritis Specialist in Chandigarh, Dr. Manu Mengi, has extensive experience diagnosing and treating this condition. He also explains RA’s common signs and symptoms to help you recognize the early warning signs and seek timely treatment from a Rheumatoid Arthritis Specialist in Chandigarh.

1. Joint Pain and Stiffness

The most common symptom of rheumatoid arthritis is joint pain and stiffness. Whereas osteoarthritis affects only specific joints, RA affects multiple joints symmetrically. This means if the patient’s one hand or knee is affected, there is a high chance that the other will also be affected. The pain and stiffness are often worse in the morning or after periods of inactivity lasting more than 30 minutes.

2. Swelling and Redness

RA can cause severe inflammation, leading to swelling and redness in the affected joints. The patients can also feel the warmth or tenderness in the joint. In some cases, the swelling may be enough to cause visible deformities in the joints. This happens mainly in the hands and feet.

3. Fatigue and Weakness

Many individuals with rheumatoid arthritis experience persistent fatigue and weakness. They complain about these symptoms even if they have not engaged in strenuous activities. This fatigue can be very uncomfortable and may affect your daily life. The underlying inflammation caused by RA is often responsible for this symptom.

4. Low-Grade Fever

Some people with rheumatoid arthritis may experience a low-grade fever. The temperature can be anywhere between 99°F to 100.4°F (37.2°C to 38°C). This fever is caused by the body’s immune system actively fighting the inflammation caused by RA.

5. Numbness and Tingling

In some cases, patients also complain about numbness and tingling sensations. This is mainly because of the inflammation in the small joints of the hands and feet, leading to numbness and tingling sensations. This is due to the compression of nerves in the affected areas, a condition known as peripheral neuropathy.

6. Rheumatoid Nodules

About 20-30% of individuals with rheumatoid arthritis get rheumatoid nodules. These are firm, painless lumps that develop under the skin near the affected joints. Most patients have them on the elbows, fingers, and heels.

7. Dry Eyes and Mouth

Rheumatoid arthritis can affect other parts of the body other than the joints. Some patients with RA may experience dry eyes and mouth. This is also known as Sjögren’s syndrome. It occurs when the immune system attacks the glands that produce tears and saliva.

Suffering from RA? Get in Touch With the Best Arthritis Specialist in Chandigarh today.

May 28, 2024 / by Manu

5 Questions to Ask Your Orthopedic Before Getting Knee Replacement

If you’re considering knee replacement surgery, choosing the right orthopedic surgeon is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. That’s where Dr. Manu Mengi comes in. Dr. Manu Mengi is a Leading Orthopedic Doctor in Chandigarh who knows the importance of asking your doctor some crucial questions to ensure you know what’s happening.

In this blog post, we’ll talk about 5 essential questions to ask your orthopedic surgeon before getting a knee replacement.

1. What is your experience with knee replacement surgery?

You wouldn’t trust your car to a mechanic who’s never changed a tire, right? Well, the same goes for your knees! When it comes to surgery, you want someone who knows what they’re doing. Dr. Manu Mengi, known as the Best Knee Replacement Surgeon in Chandigarh, has done tons of successful knee replacements. He’s got the experience to make you feel confident about taking this big step.

2. What type of implant do you recommend for me?

Everyone’s different, and so are knee implants. They come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. Your orthopedic surgeon should get to know you and your needs before recommending an implant. Things like your age, weight, and how active you are all matter. Dr. Manu Mengi is always up-to-date with the latest in implant technology, so he can pick the perfect fit for you and your lifestyle.

3. What can I expect during the recovery process?

Let’s be real, the idea of recovering from surgery can be pretty scary. But it helps to know what you’re in for. Ask your surgeon what recovery will be like. How long will you be in the hospital? When can you start moving around again? What kind of pain meds and physical therapy will you need? Dr. Manu Mengi and his team will give you the full rundown and be there to support you every step of the way for Knee Replacement in Chandigarh.

4. What are the potential risks and complications?

No surgery is risk-free, and it’s important to talk openly about that with your surgeon. Dr. Manu Mengi believes in being upfront about potential complications, like infection or blood clots. He’ll tell you how he works hard to keep those risks as low as possible. Remember, your safety always comes first.

5. How long will my new knee last?

The longevity of your knee implant can vary depending on factors such as your age, weight, activity level, and the type of implant used. You’re putting a lot into this new knee, so of course you want to know how long it’ll keep you going. While it varies from person to person, your surgeon can give you a general idea based on things like the type of implant and your overall health. Dr. Manu Mengi uses top-of-the-line implants and surgical techniques to help your new knee last as long as possible.

First of all, if you’ve decided to go for a knee replacement, you must know that you’re not alone in this. Asking these five key questions can help you feel good about your choice of orthopedic surgeon. Dr. Manu Mengi, a top Knee Specialist in Chandigarh, is ready to listen, give advice, and be there for you on your journey to a pain-free, active life. Take that first step and set up a meeting with Dr. Manu Mengi. Your knees will be glad you did!

May 14, 2024 / by Manu

Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): Understanding the Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a type of arthritis that affects the spine and other joints.

It causes inflammation in certain parts of the spine and can lead to stiffness and pain. Early signs and symptoms include pain and stiffness in the lower back and hips.
The exact cause for ankylosing spondylitis is not known, but gene mutation could be a factor. Other factors that could contribute to ankylosing spondylitis include gender (men are at increased risk than women), age (the disease tends to develop during late adolescence or early adulthood), and family history.

Treatments including medications, therapies, exercise, and surgery help manage the condition.

Medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are used to relieve inflammation, pain, and stiffness.
Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are used to relieve inflammation, pain, and stiffness.
Biologics are used to reduce inflammation, pain, and stiffness.
Joint replacement surgery may be required in cases of severe damage to hip and knee joints.
Physical therapy includes range-of-motion and stretching exercises, proper sleep and waking positions, etc.

Foods that contain omega-3 fatty acids such as flaxseeds, walnut, fishes such as salmon and tuna, kale, spinach; whole grains such as oatmeal, low starch diet such as fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, milk and milk products, eggs are recommended for people with ankylosing spondylitis.

Foods that should be avoided include sugar, sodium, fat; alcohol should be avoided as well.

The primary diagnosis depends on physical examination followed by other imaging tests to rule out any other conditions.

Movement of spine, movement of legs and breathing tests are performed during physical examination.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of sacroiliac joints provides detailed images of bones and surrounding tissues. X-ray of back and pelvis may be performed to assess the severity of the disease.

May 1, 2023 / by Manu