Arthritis

What is Arthritis?

• Arthritis is a broad term for any of over 100 rheumatic diseases. Rheumatic diseases are any condition which is marked by inflammation and/or pain in the joints, muscles, or fibrous tissue. The most common forms are osteoarthritis (OA), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and gout.

Why Should You Care?

• 1/5 of US adults have some form of arthritis
• 1/2 of all adults 65 and older are diagnosed with arthritis
• Arthritis costs the U.S. $128 billion annually
  • $80.8 billion in direct costs
  • $47 billion in indirect costs (missed work, etc)

Causes / Risk Factors

• Age
• Gender    
• Genetic
• Weight
• Joint injuries    
• Infection
• Occupation                                                                                  

Symptoms

• Arthritis is typically marked by intermittent pain or stiffness around one or more joints. Diagnosis of specific types of arthritis may require symptoms which have lasted for a period of several months. 

Treatments      

• Medication    
• Physical therapy
• Occupational therapy              
• Splints or joint-assistive aids
• Education    
• Support groups
• In extreme cases, surgery may be required    
• High caffeine intake can cause problems with RA treatment    

Resources

• While there are few physical support groups, the Arthritis Foundation, with chapters in Wisconsin and Illinois, has activities periodically, and is a phenomenal resource for those who want to get more information on managing their disease and for directed support.

Source: Center for Disease Control