Facts about Arthritis
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Arthritis is one of Missouri's most common chronic health problems affecting
as many as 1.5 million residents 18 years of age and older. It is not
just an "old person's disease." Almost 43 million Americans
have some form of arthritis. There are over 100 different types of arthritis
each type has different symptoms and treatments. Here are some common
types of arthritis:
- Osteoarthritits
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Fibromyalgia
- Gout
- Ankylosing Spondylitis
- Juvenile Arthritis
- Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
- Scleroderma
Warning Signs of Arthritis
- Pain
- Swelling
- Stiffness
- Problems moving one or more joints.
See your health care provider if you suspect you may have arthritis.
Treatments for Arthritis
- Medicines (prescriptions and over-the-counter) can
help reduce pain and swelling
- Exercise lessens pain and increases movement reduces
fatigue and helps you look and feel better.
- Rest/relaxation saves your energy by switching periods
of activity with periods of rest.
- Use of heat or cold over joints or muscles may give
you short-term relief from pain and stiffness and help prepare you for
exercise
- Joint protection makes it easier to do daily tasks
by avoiding extra stress on your joints.
- Surgery can help in some cases when other treatments have failed, but most people with arthritis will never need it.
For More Information Contact www.arthritis.org.