Mahakumbh Mela, the world’s largest religious gathering, is attended by millions of people to experience devotion, spirituality and faith. While the arrangements are well-managed, this pilgrimage experience demands a lot of walking, and standing for hours, which can lead to bone & joint pains such as pain in the heel, knee, back as well as muscle cramps etc. To ensure a comfortable and pain-free spiritual journey, here are some essential orthopedic tips:

Tips to manage bone & joint pain during Mahakumbh Mela:
Comfortable footwear – Many people believe that wearing flat footwear like Hawai chappals or flip-flops for a long time is ideal, but wearing them for a longer duration can lead to heel pain. As Mahakumbh is a religious event, wearing closed shoes is also not a preferable option. People should opt for comfortable footwear that is broad at the front, has arch support and slight heel (about 1 inch) with soft cushioning, such as Crocs.

Hydration - It is imperative to drink water frequently as exhaustion and dehydration can lead to muscle cramps and fatigue.

Walking stick - For senior citizens (people above 65yrs), using a walking stick is a must to prevent falls in an overcrowded place like the Kumbh Mela where pushing might happen.

Quick warm-up - Before starting the day, try and do a quick 5-10-minute warm-up which includes ankle rotations, knee bends, and light stretches. This helps improve blood circulation and reduces muscle stiffness.

Pre-existing back & knee pain - In case a person is suffering from osteoarthritis or general knee pain, they are suggested to wear knee braces as they provide extra support and stability, reducing discomfort & pain while walking long distances. If you already have knee pain or back pain, then it’s a good idea to wear knee caps or Lumbosacral Corset during Mahakumbh.

Medicine box – It is essential to carry a medicine box if anyone is on any regular medication due to pre-existing medical conditions. Also, low blood pressure or blood sugar levels can cause dizziness and prone to falling. Moreover, fasting and exhaustion can make people susceptible to Hypoglycemia so people with diabetes must carry sweet toffees as a precaution.

Daily exercise routine - Every morning, there are a lot of Yoga Camps organized during Mahakumbh Mela. An early morning session of exercise and body stretching can help prepare the body for physical activities of the day.

Overloading on shoulders - Carrying heavy backpacks can potentially strain the neck, shoulders, and spine. It is recommended to carry only essentials or use a lightweight backpack preferably with padded straps so that it distributes the weight evenly.

Balanced diet – It is suggested to consume a diet that comprises ample calcium and vitamin D (such as dairy products, nuts, and green veggies) to maintain strong bones and prevent joint pain.

Mahakumbh is a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual experience, and physical discomfort should not take away from its sanctity. By following these simple orthopedic precautions, one can focus on devotion rather than discomfort and managing pains.

Dr. Gaurav Rastogi, Consultant – Orthopaedics, Manipal Hospital Dwarka, New Delhi