Steps to Limit the Impact of Arthritis
Arthritis and rheumatic diseases are the most common chronic health conditions in the United States today. While these conditions become more common among older people, even in those under 65, arthritis is a major cause of work disability. While many believe that arthritis is just another name for the aches and pains people get as they grow older, the reality is that arthritis may begin at any age, including childhood.
Arthritis-related conditions can be grouped into two categories based on whether they affect only one joint or area of the body or many joints and organs over the entire body. The first group includes conditions that affect the soft tissues surrounding joints or bones directly. These include tendinitis and bursitis. It also includes osteoarthritis, a condition that affects one or a few joints such as the knee or hip. The second group includes conditions in which inflammation affects the entire body, such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout, ankylosing spondylitis and psoriatic arthritis as well as lupus, a disease that can affect the skin, kidneys or other organs. This group also encompasses conditions of widespread muscle and soft tissue discomfort in which there is no evidence of swelling or inflammation; fibromyalgia is one of the most common forms. These groups are not mutually exclusive and a person may have more than one type of rheumatic disease.
Despite the rising prevalence and significant costs of treatment, steps can be taken to prevent or limit the progression of the disease. In conjunction with National Arthritis Month in May, the Arthritis Foundation is recommending the following simple steps to limit the impact of arthritis:
· Do not ignore joint pain. Studies show that joint damage can occur early in some forms of arthritis, sometimes within the first two years. If you have joint pain that lasts more than two weeks, see your doctor.
- With more than 100 forms of arthritis, each requiring a different treatment it is important to get a specific diagnosis from your doctor. Then work with you doctor on a comprehensive treatment plan.
- Lose excess weight. The more that you weigh, the more stress you put on your joints, especially the knees, hips, back and feet. Losing 11 pounds can cut the risk of developing knee osteoarthritis by 50 percent for some women.
- Regular exercise protects joints by strengthening the muscles around them, reduces pain, increases movement and reduces fatigue.
- Maintain a healthy diet. Recent research points to the importance of vitamin C and other antioxidants in reducing the risk of osteoarthritis. Consider oranges or orange juice as a snack to provide disease fighting antioxidants.
- To protect your joints, always use the largest and strongest joint possible to complete a task. By carrying large items close to your body using your arms instead of your hands, you are reducing the risk of injuries.
- Protect yourself from joint injury during physical activity by warming up properly and using different muscle groups. Joint braces or guards are recommended to alleviate joint stress and reduce the risk of injury.
- Repetitive motion has been shown to increase the risk of developing arthritis. Alternate tasks to avoid using the same joints repeatedly. And take frequent breaks to stand and stretch stiff joints and sore muscles.
- Relax; stress is a common trigger of joint pain and fatigue. A massage or a warm bath has been shown to relieve muscle tension and ease joint pain.
- Quit smoking. Smoking can reduce bone mass, leading to osteoporosis and an increased risk of fractures. It can also increase the risk of complications from several forms of arthritis and prolong recovery from surgeries.
Making even the smallest changes can result in big strides in preventing or controlling arthritis. The Arthritis Foundations offers a free leaflet entitled Simple Strategies for Change which includes strategies to improve health and limit the impact of arthritis. More information is available at www.arthritis.org
