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Joint Health
Millions of Americans suffer varying degrees of pain and loss of
mobility due to joint pain and chronic conditions such as
osteoarthritis. Baby boomers are now at prime risk. More than half
those affected are under age 65.
Health Facts: The number of Americans diagnosed with some
form of arthritis is projected to rise to 67 million (or 25% of the
adult population) by 2030 from the 42.7 million in 2002. Arthritis
strikes women more often than men. Arthritis is one of the most
prevalent chronic health problems and the nation’s leading cause of
disability among Americans over age 15. Centers for Disease Control
stated in 2003, there were 418,000 total knee replacements
performed, primarily for arthritis. Arthritis is second only to
heart disease as a cause of work disability. Costs to the U.S.
economy totals more than $86.2 billion annually. (Sources: CDC and
Arthritis Foundation).
What is Arthritis? Arthritis refers to more than 100
different diseases that affect areas in or around joints.
Did you know? Losing as little as 11 pounds reduces the
risk of developing knee osteoarthritis by 50%. (Source: Centers for
Disease Control).
Helpful Tips: Do you think there’s nothing you can do
about arthritis pain? You are not alone. Most people (half of
all Americans) afflicted with arthritis don’t think anything can be done
to help them. But there is great news! You can take action right
now. Some of the health tips here are simple, but if overlooked can lead
you to suffer with unnecessary pain. Other health tips are first steps toward
longer-term wellness goals. These tips can directly or indirectly improve your
health, outlook or pain level, and can generally make life with
arthritis a little easier.
- Pay attention to symptoms, see your doctor and get an accurate diagnosis—
If you have pain, stiffness or swelling in or around a joint for
more than two weeks, it's time to see your doctor. These
symptoms can develop suddenly or slowly. Only a doctor can tell
if it's arthritis. But "you have arthritis" is not a diagnosis.
Ask for a specific diagnosis of the type of arthritis you have.
There are more than 100 types, each of which has different
treatments. Getting the right treatment requires getting the
right diagnosis.
- Start early— The earlier an accurate diagnosis is made
and treatment is started, the better. Early treatment can often
mean less joint damage and less pain. Your doctor may recommend
a combination of treatments that may include medication, weight
management, exercise, use of heat or cold, and methods to
protect your joints from further damage. See your doctor for an
early diagnosis and an immediate treatment plan.
More Health Tips
Visit our Wellness & You section for
Healthy Lifestyle tips you can easily incorporate into your daily
life.
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