Your Orthopod: Dr Markandaiya Acharya

It often happens we're sitting in a restaurant when a well-meaning voice in our head reminds us,  "You should eat a salad."  Inspired, we call over the waiter and confidently order,  "One large green salad with lots of veggies, please!"  Moments later, the staff returns with a neatly arranged plate of fresh cucumbers, crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and onion rings. It looks so aesthetic that you can't resist snapping a quick photo for Instagram before diving in. But here’s the real question— is it always as healthy as it looks? ( Green Salad ) A crisp romaine lettuce salad is a staple in many diets, valued for its nutrition and versatility. However, this leafy green has been at the heart of several high-profile  Escherichia coli  ( E. coli ) outbreaks, raising concerns about food safety. From the significant 2018 outbreak to more recent incidents in 2024, romaine lettuce has repeatedly been linked to serious illnesses. What is E. coli? Escherichia c...

A few days ago, a young man walked into my clinic, visibly frustrated and anxious. He had developed swelling in his foot following a seemingly minor burn injury—a superficial scald from his bike’s silencer. Although the wound itself was small and not deep, the aftermath had taken a heavy toll on him, both physically and mentally. The swelling had become a significant concern. He could no longer wear footwear, making even basic mobility a struggle. Despite consulting a local physician, his condition remained unchanged, leaving him even more distressed. Sensing his frustration, I listened carefully and approached the case with empathy. As I gently palpated the affected area, my clinical suspicion was quickly confirmed. ( Image Showing Cellulitis ) Cellulitis:  Cellulitis is characterized as an acute bacterial infection, primarily affecting the dermis and surrounding subcutaneous tissue, without the formation of abscesses or purulent discharge. It is noted for its significant public...

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by inflammation of the joints, leading to pain, swelling, stiffness, and decreased mobility. While there is no cure for RA, effective management strategies can help individuals live fulfilling lives.   Image: Rheumatoid Hand What is Rheumatoid Arthritis? RA is an autoimmune disease, meaning the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues. In the case of RA, the immune system targets the synovium, the tissue that lines the joints. This inflammation can lead to joint damage, erosion, and deformity. Causes and Risk Factors While the exact cause of RA remains elusive, it is widely believed to be a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors. Understanding these risk factors can help shed light on the disease and inform prevention and treatment strategies. Image: Causes and Risk Factors of Rheumatoid Arthritis Genetic Predispositi...