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Joints and bones can become overloaded when a person in their 20s or 30s exercises beyond their limits, leading to what experts call ‘bone burnout.’
Bone burnout causes pain, stiffness, and early-onset arthritis.
Over the past several years, gym culture has become synonymous with urban living. Young adults are increasingly prioritising strength training, weightlifting, and high-endurance workouts, chasing the thrill of high momentum and accomplishment. While consistent movement is crucial for bone and joint health, excessive intensity can backfire.
Dr. Rakesh Rajput, HOD & Director – Orthopaedics at CMRI Kolkata, explains, “Motivation for consistency and intensity of exercise can only be positive when within reason; overloading joints and bones in your 20s or 30s can lead to what we refer to as ‘bone burnout.’”
Although not a formal diagnosis, bone burnout is essentially the accelerated wear and tear of bones and joints, often manifesting as pain, stiffness, or early-onset arthritis.
Why Young Adults Are Prone To Bone Burnout
Dr. Rajput notes, “Young adults often stress their bones and joints harder than older adults, often without realising the long-lasting effects. Excessive weight training, skipping warm-ups, abnormal posture, and ignoring early pain signals can compromise cartilage faster than normal.”
He adds, “We are now seeing 20- to 30-year-olds experiencing meniscus tears and premature osteoarthritis, similar to elite European athletes.”
Innovation In Treatment
Lifestyle changes, physiotherapy, and preventative care remain the first line of management. But new technologies are changing outcomes for serious cases.
“Robotic-assisted knee surgeries are revolutionising treatment,” says Dr. Rajput. “They offer greater accuracy, smaller incisions, and faster recovery. For younger patients, partial knee replacements or joint resurfacing can relieve pain while preserving more of the natural joint, delaying the need for total knee replacement.”
Prevention Is Better Than Cure
Bone burnout is largely preventable. Key strategies include:
- Balanced exercise schedules with strength, flexibility, and rest
- Proper footwear
- Adequate calcium and vitamin D
- Listening to your body and addressing pain early
“Persistent pain should prompt an early consult with an orthopaedic specialist rather than masking symptoms with medication,” advises Dr. Rajput.
With fitness becoming a central part of young adults’ lifestyles, awareness of bone and joint health is crucial. Overtraining without guidance can lead to irreversible damage. The good news? Preventative care, advanced robotic surgery, and partial replacements mean young patients can maintain mobility, quality of life, and an active lifestyle, even after injury.
- Location :
Delhi, India, India
