Arthritis Overview

Posted: May 1, 2005

Arthritis and chronic joint symptoms affect nearly 70 million Americans, or about one of every three adults, making it one of the most prevalent diseases in the United States. As the population ages, this number will increase dramatically.

Arthritis is a general term that includes over 100 kinds of rheumatic diseases. Rheumatic diseases afflict the joints, muscles, and connective tissues, which make up or support the many structures of the body, including tendons, cartilage, blood vessels, and internal organs.

Arthritis causes swelling, redness, warmth, loss of movement and pain. It can be caused by an injury to the joints or more commonly it is caused by the uncontrolled inflammation (redness and swelling) from an autoimmune disease, where the immune system begins to attack the body.

Who has arthritis?
The prevalence of arthritis is high for all demographic groups, but especially higher among women and older persons. People with arthritis are less active and heavier than the population in general.

What can be done?
Research shows that physical activity decreases pain, improves function and delays disability.

In addition, research studies suggest that maintaining an ideal body weight and avoiding joint injuries reduces the risk of developing arthritis and may decrease disease progression.

Obtaining an early diagnosis so that appropriate management can be started may improve the quality of life for people with arthritis.

For more information related to arthritis, visit the Advanced Healthcare orthopaedics Web site .

Also visit the Columbia St. Mary’s Arthritis Center Web site

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

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