Dr Sumesh Subramanian, MBBS, MS (Orthopaedics), is an Orthopaedic Specialist with over nine years of post-graduation clinical experience. He holds a Fellowship in Arthroplasty and has worked at renowned institutions including Sri Ramachandra Medical College, Soundarapandian Bone and Joint Hospital, and Kauvery Hospital, where he combined clinical practice with teaching responsibilities.
He is currently the Founder and Chief Consultant at OrthoCure Bone and Joint Speciality Clinic, Thirumullaivoyal, where he provides personalised, evidence-based musculoskeletal care. In a conversation with THIP Media, he talked about the myths that blur the treatment options and how health literacy helps to start clear conversations with patients.
When a patient explains to you about their health problems, what are the most common mistakes they make in their communication?
One of the most common mistakes people make while communicating is jumping straight to what they believe is the diagnosis — saying things like, “It’s arthritis” or “I have an L4-L5 disc problem” — instead of simply describing what they’re feeling. Many also come in with information they’ve seen on YouTube, WhatsApp forwards, or heard from relatives, which can often be confusing or misleading.
Elderly patients, in particular, are often on multiple medications but may not bring their medication list or even remember what they’re taking. Some also forget to mention older injuries or previous treatments, which could actually be crucial to understanding their current problem.
Another common issue is that some patients try to hide certain lifestyle habits — especially smoking — out of fear or anxiety, not realizing that these can be modifiable risk factors in many orthopaedic conditions.
What does health literacy mean to you, and why is it important in patient care?
To me, health literacy means having a basic understanding of one’s body, the problem they’re facing, and what their treatment involves. It’s not about knowing medical jargon, but about knowing enough to make informed decisions.
When patients understand why something is being done — whether it’s an X-ray, a medicine, or a physiotherapy session — they become more cooperative, less anxious, and more consistent with follow-ups. This builds trust and leads to better outcomes.
If a patient is knowledgeable about the basics of their health condition, how helpful is it for the overall treatment procedure?
When a patient is knowledgeable, it makes a huge difference. A patient who understands the nature of their condition is more likely to follow instructions properly and describe their symptoms more clearly. They also tend to ask the right questions and actively participate in decision-making.
For example, a patient with early arthritis who understands the importance of exercise and weight management is far more likely to stick to a physiotherapy plan than someone who expects only medicines to solve the problem.
How much can medical misinformation impact treatment procedures?
Medical misinformation can seriously delay or derail treatment. I’ve seen patients who waited for months, believing that a home remedy would “dissolve” a bone spur or “regrow” cartilage. By the time they finally come in, the condition has often progressed.
Misinformation can also create fear or resistance — for example, refusing an X-ray thinking it’s harmful, or avoiding physiotherapy out of fear it will worsen the pain. This not only slows down recovery but can also lead to complications that could have been avoided.
What are the most common myths or misinformation you see your patients falling prey to?
1) “Walking too much causes knee arthritis.”
This is one of the biggest myths I hear, especially from middle-aged and elderly patients. In reality, regular walking is one of the best ways to keep your joints healthy — as long as it’s done on even ground and with proper footwear.
2) “Physiotherapy is only needed after surgery.”
Many people believe physiotherapy is something you start only after an operation, like a knee replacement or fracture. That’s not true at all. Physiotherapy is actually one of the most powerful first-line treatments for managing early joint pain, back pain, and even conditions like frozen shoulder or muscle imbalance.
3) “If you have back pain, you should take complete bed rest.”
This is one of the most damaging myths I see, especially in people with sudden or chronic back pain. Many think lying down and avoiding all movement will help them heal faster. But prolonged rest can weaken core muscles, stiffen joints, and delay recovery.
Unless there’s a serious issue like a fracture or nerve compression, gentle movement, posture correction, and back-friendly exercises are key. I often tell my patients: “Your spine needs movement to heal — not fear.” Resting for a day or two is fine, but after that, it’s important to slowly return to light activity with proper guidance.
4) “Joint sounds (clicking/popping) always mean something is wrong.”
Not necessarily. If there’s no pain or swelling, joint sounds are usually harmless and caused by normal movement of tendons or gas bubbles. It’s only when the sounds are repetitive and painful that we investigate further. As I often say: “Not all noises need fixing — listen to your symptoms, not just your sounds.”
5) “Wearing a knee cap or belt will fix the problem.”
Supports like knee braces, belts, or collars are often overused without proper guidance. People assume wearing one will “heal” the problem — but they are only temporary aids. Overuse can actually weaken muscles and increase dependency. I always remind patients: “Braces are not treatment. Movement is.”
What is your most common advice to patients to stay away from health misinformation online?
The most common advice I give my patients is this: It’s okay to be curious, but be careful where you get your information from. Just because something is shared widely doesn’t mean it’s true.
Online content is often exaggerated, oversimplified, or not relevant to your specific condition. A video made for views can never replace a consultation with someone who has seen your X-rays or understands your pain.
My honest advice is always – Don’t rely on Google, WhatsApp forwards, or random advice on YouTube. If you have a doubt, ask your doctor directly — it’s faster, safer, and far more accurate.
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