Dr Amyn Rajani warns against reckless exercise

Mumbai: Ahead of National Sports Day, renowned knee, shoulder and hip surgeon Dr Amyn Rajani issued a strong caution to gym-goers, highlighting the serious risks of unsupervised or incorrect workouts.

He stressed that while exercise is beneficial, poor technique, lifting excessive weights and ignoring the body’s signals can lead to significant orthopaedic injuries.

The fine line between fitness and injury

Dr Rajani emphasised that exercise, when done correctly, offers immense benefits—from strengthening muscles and bones to improving flexibility and posture.

“Regular exercise at the gym, when done right with proper technique, strengthens not only the muscles but also one’s bones, joints and ligaments,” he said. He added that a stronger body is more resilient and better protected against age-related stiffness and daily injuries.

However, he warned that the lack of proper guidance can turn a fitness routine into a source of harm. Common mistakes include skipping warm-ups, using incorrect form or overloading the body.

Common gym injuries and warning signs

According to Dr Rajani, while some gym injuries are minor sprains, others are far more severe and may require medical intervention or even surgery. These can include ligament tears, rotator cuff injuries, cartilage damage in the knee or stress fractures.

Dr Rajani urged people to pay close attention to their bodies.

“The body always gives signals of injuries and bodily harm,” he stated. He advised people not to ignore persistent pain, swelling, instability, reduced range of motion or a sudden ‘pop’ sound in a joint. He warned that if discomfort doesn’t subside after a few days of rest, it is a significant warning sign that requires a visit to a doctor.

Prevention is key

To avoid injury, Dr Rajani recommended several preventive measures.

He advised individuals to always do a proper warm-up before each session and to focus on correct technique over lifting heavier weights quickly. “One must make progress slowly, work with a qualified trainer, and give the body joints enough time to recover with adequate rest and stretching,” he said.

He underscored the importance of listening to one’s body, stating, “If pain is sharp, swelling persists for long or body movements feel restricted beyond a few days, it is time to see an orthopaedic specialist.”

He concluded with a simple but powerful message: “Why training in a gym, it is important to be consistent, not reckless.”

Dr Amyn Rajani is one of Mumbai’s leading orthopaedic surgeons in Breach Candy, Hinduja and Saifee hospitals