A Doctor Perspective: Practicing What I Preach for Bone and Joint Health|Dr. Rahul Jagtap

As a Consultant Orthopedic and Joint Replacement Surgeon in Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, Dr. Rahul Jagtap spends each day treating patients struggling with bone and joint problems. Yet, he firmly believes that the best way to care for others is to care for oneself first. “Whatever advice I give my patients, I make sure to follow it in my own life,” says Dr. Jagtap. From maintaining proper posture during consultations to standing correctly in the operation theatre, he consciously avoids putting uneven stress on his joints and muscles.

In a profession where self-care often takes a backseat, Dr. Jagtap ensures he stays active and healthy through yoga, cycling, and daily walking. Walking, he emphasizes, is the easiest and most effective exercise anyone can incorporate into their routine. For him, a balanced lifestyle rests on three pillars — regular exercise, nutritious meals on time, and adequate sleep of 7–8 hours. Neglecting even one of these, he warns, can affect both physical and mental well-being.

Drawing from his vast experience, Dr. Jagtap often encounters injuries caused by improper gym techniques or overtraining. He recalls a young athlete who suffered a slipped disc from heavy weightlifting. With timely surgery and physiotherapy, the patient made a complete recovery and returned to his sport — a reminder that proper technique and professional guidance are essential for safe workouts.

Dr. Jagtap also stresses the importance of early consultation for joint pain. Many patients ignore initial discomfort, only to visit when the damage is irreversible and joint replacement becomes the only option.

His key advice for a healthy musculoskeletal system includes:

Follow regular meal timings and ensure adequate protein, calcium, and vitamin D intake.
Exercise daily, choosing activities that are comfortable yet effective.
Sleep well, aligning rest with the body’s natural rhythm.
Maintain an ideal BMI, as excess weight increases pressure on the knees and joints.

In Dr. Jagtap’s words, “Movement keeps the joints alive. A healthy body, a balanced diet, and proper rest together build the foundation for a pain-free, active life.”

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