Arthritis is the number one cause of disability in the U.S. According to the Arthritis Foundation, over 50 million adults and almost 300,000 children under the age of 18 have been diagnosed with some form of arthritis. One-third of adults with this chronic condition are limited in the work they can do which results in up to $156 billion in lost wages and medical expenses annually.
Types of Arthritis
There are over 100 types of arthritis, but the most common forms are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, fibromyalgia, childhood arthritis, and systemic lupus erythematosus. In general, arthritis is the inflammation of one or more joints and connective tissue, the immune system, and in some cases, internal organs. Almost half of the …show more content…
The chance of developing arthritis increases with age, and women are more likely to develop the condition than men with the exception of gout, which is more common in men. Obesity, joint injuries, infections that affect joints, and certain occupations that involve repetitive motions can also cause arthritis.
Arthritis Symptoms
Arthritis symptoms can vary depending on the type of arthritis, but typical symptoms are pain, swelling and stiffness in one or more joints. The symptoms can develop gradually or suddenly, but because arthritis is a chronic disease, the symptoms may come and go and last for differing amounts of time. It is important for a person to be specific about their symptoms when they talk to their doctor so that they can properly diagnose the type of arthritis.
Arthritis Treatment
There are a variety of treatment for arthritis that can help improve mobility and quality of life while minimizing pain and joint damage. Some treatments include medication, weight loss, physical therapy, and as a last resort, surgery. There are also self-management programs where trained instructors hold workshops teaching people how to deal with arthritis pain, how to properly use medication, and how to properly exercise. Participants are also taught how to effectively communicate their symptoms to family, friends, and
Types of Arthritis
There are over 100 types of arthritis, but the most common forms are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, fibromyalgia, childhood arthritis, and systemic lupus erythematosus. In general, arthritis is the inflammation of one or more joints and connective tissue, the immune system, and in some cases, internal organs. Almost half of the …show more content…
The chance of developing arthritis increases with age, and women are more likely to develop the condition than men with the exception of gout, which is more common in men. Obesity, joint injuries, infections that affect joints, and certain occupations that involve repetitive motions can also cause arthritis.
Arthritis Symptoms
Arthritis symptoms can vary depending on the type of arthritis, but typical symptoms are pain, swelling and stiffness in one or more joints. The symptoms can develop gradually or suddenly, but because arthritis is a chronic disease, the symptoms may come and go and last for differing amounts of time. It is important for a person to be specific about their symptoms when they talk to their doctor so that they can properly diagnose the type of arthritis.
Arthritis Treatment
There are a variety of treatment for arthritis that can help improve mobility and quality of life while minimizing pain and joint damage. Some treatments include medication, weight loss, physical therapy, and as a last resort, surgery. There are also self-management programs where trained instructors hold workshops teaching people how to deal with arthritis pain, how to properly use medication, and how to properly exercise. Participants are also taught how to effectively communicate their symptoms to family, friends, and