Antardhwani - A support Group for Ankylosing Spondylitis and Rheumatoid Arthritis patients.

A lot of people think Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) only affects older adults. However, RA can develop at any age, including during the 20s and 30s. It is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy joint tissues, causing inflammation, pain, swelling, and stiffness. Why Can Young Adults Develop Rheumatoid Arthritis? The exact cause of RA is not fully understood. However, there are several factors that  contribute to its development: Genetic factors: A family history of RA or other autoimmune conditions may increase the risk. Immune system changes: An abnormal immune response can cause joint inflammation. Smoking and tobacco use: Smoking is an important risk factor and may also worsen disease progression. Environmental factors: Air pollution and certain infections may contribute to autoimmune responses. Hormonal factors: RA is more common in women, suggesting that hormonal factors may influence the immune system. Lifestyle factors: Being overwei...

India is witnessing a steady rise in chronic diseases such as Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS), Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), diabetes , and hypertension . While medical advancements have made these conditions more manageable, health insurance underwriting often continues to treat all chronic diseases as permanent high-risk conditions. A more evidence-based approach can create a fairer and more sustainable insurance system. Why the Current Approach Needs to Change Many insurers continue to classify chronic diseases as pre-existing conditions, leading to: Long waiting periods Coverage exclusions Higher premiums Limited policy options Patients with well-controlled conditions are often assessed the same way as those with active or uncontrolled disease, despite having different health risks. The Growing Need for Reform According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare , more than 8.64 crore people are currently receiving treatment for hypertension and diabetes under the National Programm...

Living with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) or Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) doesn't stop someone from being a valuable employee. However, chronic joint pain, morning stiffness in spondylitis , spondylitis muscle stiffness , and fatigue can make everyday work more challenging. As inflammatory forms of arthritis disease , RA and AS often require ongoing management, but with the right workplace support, employees can remain productive, engaged, and successful. Why Workplace Inclusion Matters Rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis are often called invisible illnesses because their symptoms aren't always visible. Many employees continue working while quietly managing pain, stiffness, and fatigue, especially during morning hours when symptoms are often at their worst. What Research Says The numbers highlight the impact of inflammatory arthritis in the workplace. One clinical study of employed rheumatoid arthritis patients found an average 14% absenteeism , a 38.4% reduction i...

Back pain affects millions of people worldwide and is one of the leading causes of disability. While many cases improve with physical therapy, medication, and exercise, some individuals continue to experience persistent symptoms that interfere with daily life. In some cases, chronic back pain may result from structural spinal problems or even a chronic inflammatory spine disease that requires specialized treatment. When conservative treatments no longer provide adequate relief, surgery may become an option. One increasingly popular approach is minimally invasive back surgery (MIBS) , which uses smaller incisions and specialized techniques to treat spinal conditions while reducing damage to surrounding tissues. What Is Minimally Invasive Back Surgery? Minimally invasive back surgery uses advanced imaging technology, specialized instruments, and small incisions to access the spine with less disruption to muscles and soft tissues. Common conditions treated with minimally invasive spine ...