Each year, May is recognized as National Arthritis Awareness Month, and we'd like to do our part in increasing awareness and reviewing the facts about arthritis with you. Arthritis is the nation's No. 1 cause of disability. Nearly 53 million adults have doctor-diagnosed arthritis, and that number is expected to grow to 67 million by 2030. Arthritis and related conditions account for more than $156 billion annually in lost wages and medical expenses, and a third of working-age people with arthritis have limitations in their ability to work or the type of work they can do. One of the first steps toward managing this disease is understanding the facts: the types of arthritis, and what we can do to prevent it.
So, What Is Arthritis?
Arthritis is an informal way of referring to more than 100 types of joint diseases that affect roughly 53 million adults and 300,000 children in the United States. Although there are different types, osteoarthritis is the most common. It's a degenerative disease that occurs when cartilage, the slick, cushioning surface on the ends of bones, wears away, so bone rubs against bone, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. Over time your joints lose strength and pain can become chronic. Risk factors include excess weight, family history, age, and previous injury.
Managing Mild To Moderate Symptoms
When joint symptoms are mild or moderate, they can often be managed by:
- Avoiding high-impact activities such as running or tennis in favor of swimming, cycling, or walking.
- Minimizing activities that strain your joints, using an elevator or escalator instead of stairs, for example.
- Wearing a knee brace or using a cane if your joints are interfering with mobility.
- Working with a physical therapist on a personalized exercise program.
Most doctors today use cortisone, a steroid with real side effects, to manage joint pain. At South Miami Spine and Joint, we also offer image-guided viscosupplementation injections that help restore the joint's natural lubrication with a more targeted approach. For more ways to manage day-to-day symptoms, including hot and cold therapy, diet, and massage, see our article on Managing Osteoarthritis.
Content sourced from the Arthritis Foundation and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Individual patient needs vary, so always consult your primary doctor regarding your symptoms.
If arthritis is affecting how you move, our team can help you understand what's happening in the joint and build a plan to manage it. Learn how we treat osteoarthritis, or reach out to schedule a visit.
