Scores of middle-aged and senior citizens afflicted by arthritis took centrestage for a dance competition - Joints in Motion - organized by Dr L H Hiranandani Hospital on October 11 at Powai's Olympia Building, Hiranandani Gardens. The event was set to mark World Arthritis Day and to assert that arthritis and related joint aches do not hinder happiness and ageing.

"People with arthritis need not lead painful, restricted lives. What better way to shed the misconception," said Dr Sujit Chatterjee, CEO, Hiranandani Hospital. "Time has come to send a positive message to the society that one can enjoy life even if he or she is afflicted by arthritis and we want more and more elders to come forward and participate in this event."

"The objective is to reaffirm that people with arthritis can dance, or carry on with normal activities after receiving proper medical treatment and guidance. Many in the middle-age group and above seem to complain about chronic joint pains. The causes of such joint pains are usually Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid arthritis. Sadly, they assume that such aches are part of aging and do not visit a doctor for treatment. Upon diagnosis, well-guided treatment options in advancing orthopaedics guarantee great improvement in the quality of living of the elderly," consultant orthopaedic, joint replacement and hip resurfacing surgeon at Dr L H Hiranandani Hospital, Dr Sanjeev Jain pointed out.

"With treatments like the most recent high flexion knee replacement surgery for advanced knee arthritis, patients can resume complete mobility and carry on with their daily activities without restriction," Dr Jain assured.

On the eve of World Arthritis Day (October 11), the dance competition was comprised of both individual and group dance categories. Noted celebrity and danseuse Sudha Chandra, who is herself an example for conquering all odds with the spirit of dance, was one of the judges for the competition. Others include Ms. Neha Dalal.

The event also included brief talks and presentation on arthritis, its prevention, treatments and procedures available for arthritis, post-operative care and physiotherapy for arthritis.

The evening of music and dance also ushered in the spirit of 'Navratri' and 'Dandiya', event organizers said.