Joint Disorders: 5 Arthritis Facts You Need to Know

If you are currently experiencing arthritis symptoms and orthopedic pain, you are not alone. According to the CDC, 54 million people, or 23% of all adults have some form of arthritis in the US alone. Arthritis conditions span from mild and barely noticeable forms of the condition to severe arthritis that can have a substantial impact on your day-to-day life.

Arthritis comes in all shapes and sizes and there is generally no cure. However, with the right information to hand, your arthritis can become manageable and you can live a full and unimpeded life. Read on to find out the essential arthritis facts that you need to know when seeking treatment. 

1. Arthritis Facts: There Are Many Different Types of Arthritis

First, it is worth emphasizing that there are many different forms of arthritis, each with its own symptoms and courses of treatment. There is the most common form of arthritis, osteoarthritis, which is usually caused by the “wear and tear” of joints and affects millions of poeple. There is rheumatoid arthritis, which is a severe disease that prevents joints from functioning. There is juvenile arthritis, which is a unique form of arthritis that specifically affects children. The list goes on.

2. Arthritis Can Be Fully Treated Without Drugs

Many people incorrectly view arthritis as a chronic pain medical condition that can only be treated with prescription drugs. However, the vast majority of arthritis sufferers can find effective treatment in non-medical options. One of the most effective forms of treatment is chiropractic care for arthritis, which involves joint exercises designed to reduce pain and inflammation. Such treatment will also involve physio exercises that you can easily complete at home as part of your daily routine. 

3. Arthritis is More Likely to Affect Certain People

Unfortunately, arthritis symptoms are more likely to be experienced by certain groups of people. This is often a fact of genetics that cannot be mitigated. For example, men and women over the age of 50 are more likely to experience joint inflammation. Women over the age of 15 are also more at-risk. People of Afro-Caribbean origin are also at a substantially higher risk of developing arthritis. Although you cannot fight genetics, you can fight the symptoms.

4. The Weather Makes a Big Difference 

You may have heard anecdotes of people’s pain flaring up when the weather changes. This is not just an old wives tale. The weather can have a substantial impact on your arthritic symptoms. The main factor here is sudden changes in atmospheric air pressure and temperature. This is why many people experience worse symptoms when the seasons change. In addition, cold humidity is considered the worst climate for arthritis symptoms.

5. Simple Solutions Can Manage the Symptoms 

Finally, it is worth noting that, when arthritis symptoms do flare-up, there are many simple things you can do to combat them. For example, applying a cold compress or ice pack to the affected area for 15 minutes can quickly reduce pain. Light exercises such as walking and swimming will help to reduce joint inflammation. Losing even a small amount of weight can also have a huge difference when it comes to your symptoms.

Your Health Questions, Answered 

Understanding the essential arthritis facts can help you manage your symptoms and make the lifestyle adjustments needed to enjoy a better quality of life. For more essential guidance on everyday health and treatment, make sure to consult our extensive health guides for all of the guidance you need.