Arthritis is Increasing

Just ahead of World Arthritis Day, a new study from CDC reports that almost 50 million US adults reported living with arthritis in 2007-2009, an increase from 2003-2005 (46 million). This new estimate is consistent with the future projected prevalence estimates of 67 million by the year 2030 suggesting the number of adults with arthritis is growing by almost 1 million per year. The study also reports over 21 million (42% of adults with arthritis) reported having activity limitations due to their arthritis. This estimate is higher than expected based on future projected estimates of 25 million by 2030.

Arthritis and Obesity

Obesity may be a special problem in arthritis; 1 in 3 obese adults report having arthritis. Obesity is associated with incident knee osteoarthritis (OA), disease progression, disability, total joint replacement, and poor clinical outcomes after joint replacement and likely has a critical role in the increasing population burden and impact of arthritis. Even small amounts of weight loss (approximately 11 lbs) can cut the risk of getting knee osteoarthritis by 50% and can reduce mortality risk in patients with osteoarthritis.

Arthritis and Physical Activity

Physical activity is an important part of a healthy lifestyle and managing chronic diseases such as arthritis and obesity. Long gone are the days when health care providers told people with arthritis to "rest their joints." In fact, physical activity can reduce pain and improve function, mobility, mood, and quality of life for most adults with many types of arthritis including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, and lupus. Physical activity can also help people with arthritis manage other chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. Most people with arthritis can safely participate in a self-directed physical activity program or join one of many programs available in communities across the country. Some people may benefit from physical or occupational therapy.

Arthritis Management Strategies

Learning techniques to reduce pain and limitations can be beneficial to people with arthritis. Self-management education, such as the Arthritis Foundation Self Help Program (AFSHP), or theChronic Disease Self Management Program (CDSMP) may help you develop the skills and confidence to manage your arthritis on a day to day basis. More information is available.

Other Arthritis Solutions

Living with arthritis does not mean that pain and disability have to be accepted as a normal part of life or aging. Physical activity is an arthritis pain reliever and can help people with arthritis continue to participate in valued life activities. In addition to being physically active and watching your weight, the following tactics can help people with arthritis live better:

• See Your Doctor – Although there is no cure for most types of arthritis, early diagnosis and appropriate management is important, especially for inflammatory types of arthritis like rheumatoid arthritis. For example, early use of disease-modifying drugs can affect the course of rheumatoid arthritis. If you have symptoms of arthritis, see your doctor and begin appropriate management of your condition.
• Protect Your Joints – Joint injury can lead to osteoarthritis. People who experience sports or occupational injuries or have jobs with repetitive motions like repeated knee bending have a higher risk of osteoarthritis. Avoid joint injury in order to reduce your risk of developing arthritis.