The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Vital Signs Reports just issued new statistics on arthritis,and experts say they are alarming.
Roughly one in four American adults, that’s about 54.4 million, has been diagnosed with one of the more than 100 different types of arthritis—a painful condition caused by joint inflammation.
And research suggests that number is only expected to rise over the next several years, with a projected 78.4 million people to be newly diagnosed before 2040. Contributing to this increase is the number of people getting diagnosed for diabetes and heart disease caused by an unhealthy lifestyle, both of which are common triggers for arthritis.
Treating arthritis costs the country upwards of $81 billion in medical fees. That money is spent on therapy and rehabilitation, prescription medications, and even assisted living for those left immobile due this devastating condition.
The report also points out that, despite popular belief, arthritis is not just an ‘old person’s disease.’ More than 32 million suffering from it are under the age of 65.
Quality of life is often greatly compromised by arthritis. It can affect the ability to get around self-sufficiently, or perform simple tasks like climbing stairs, opening cabinets and doors, and bending over to pick up something.
At Texas Orthopedics, we frequently prescribe regular exercise as a way to help treat arthritis. The movement helps with flexibility and keeps joints well-lubricated. Exercise is shown to help alleviate arthritis symptoms and pain by up to 40 percent.
If exercise is not enough, and you still have trouble managing your arthritis, please contact us for an appointment.
(Courtesy of CNN-Health)
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