Q: I was diagnosed with PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) at the age of 19 and advised all kinds of medications. When I grew tired of the tablets I had to take, I went to a “holistic healer” who told me that exercise and a vegetarian diet was all that I needed. I started to exercise vigorously for an hour a day. I was cured after six months. Now I find that if I discontinue the exercise for 2-3 months, owing to exams or some other problems, my periods become irregular again.

A:One of the biochemical abnormalities in PCOS is relative insulin resistance. This sets off a cascading reaction that results in acne, hirsuitism and irregular periods. Insulin resistance can be tackled with exercise. The benefits of vigorous exercise start to disappear 4-7 days after you stop. Almost 30 per cent of the benefit disappears in one month and 50 per cent by the end of the second month.

If you have responded so well to exercise and have been able to discontinue the tablets, I think you have to adjust your lifestyle so that you do not ever miss more than a week of activity no matter what other commitments you may have. That is easier and healthier than swallowing tablets!

Shouldering on

Q: I dislocated my shoulder while playing basketball when I was in high school. I was given a shoulder sling and it was all right. Now it dislocates once in 2-3 months. I have severe pain and am unable to move my arm.

A:The shoulder is one of the most commonly dislocated joints in the body. After it is replaced in the correct position by an orthopaedic surgeon, it usually needs to be immobilised for 8-12 weeks in a sling. This, followed by physiotherapy, usually takes care of the problem. If the dislocation is frequent (as you say) it will damage the nerves and muscles around the shoulder, making them weak and lax. Also, it must be interfering with your life, especially if it occurs during travel. A surgical correction will cure the problem permanently.

Treadmill test

Q: I want to buy a treadmill. The manual ones are cheaper and our electricity supply is erratic.

A:Manual treadmills are harder on joints and muscles as they are difficult to set in motion. They have no adjustable variation and move at the speed at which you use them. Electrical treadmills are easier on the bones and joints. A variety of settings and inclines can be applied. If the electricity stops, it may stop moving abruptly and you can fall off. Workouts can be varied. They do require professional maintenance.

Dr Gita Mathai is a paediatrician with a family practice at Vellore. Questions on health issues may be emailed to her at yourhealthgm@yahoo.co.in