About Arthritis

As the nation’s #1 cause of disability, arthritis affects nearly 60 million adults and 300,000 children. Over 100 types of arthritis and related conditions damage the joints and often other organs.

Helpful Tools for You

Breakthrough in Osteoarthritis Detection: A New Test for Early Diagnosis

Breakthrough in Osteoarthritis Detection: A New Test for Early Diagnosis

For years, diagnosing osteoarthritis (OA) in its earliest stages has been a significant challenge. Many patients do not receive a definitive diagnosis until cartilage damage has already progressed, li... ...more

Treatment ,About Arthritis &Pain Management

February 02, 20252 min read

Warming Up to Relief: Can Heated Mittens Ease Hand Osteoarthritis Symptoms?

Warming Up to Relief: Can Heated Mittens Ease Hand Osteoarthritis Symptoms?

For millions of people living with hand osteoarthritis (OA), daily tasks like gripping a coffee mug, buttoning a shirt, or opening a jar can be painful and frustrating. But what if a simple and non-in... ...more

Arthritis ,Treatment &About Arthritis

January 27, 20252 min read

The Silent Struggle of Gout: Why Many Flares Go Unreported

The Silent Struggle of Gout: Why Many Flares Go Unreported

Gout, a painful form of inflammatory arthritis, affects millions of people worldwide. Yet, despite its significant impact on quality of life, research shows that many individuals experiencing flares d... ...more

Arthritis ,Treatment Gout &Pain Management

January 25, 20252 min read

New Noninvasive Screening Brings Hope for Lung Health in RA Patients

New Noninvasive Screening Brings Hope for Lung Health in RA Patients

For individuals living with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), lung complications can be a silent but serious issue. Conditions like interstitial lung disease (ILD) often develop without noticeable symptoms, ... ...more

Treatment

January 06, 20253 min read

Exciting Breakthrough: Heart Muscle Regeneration Offers New Hope for Healing

Exciting Breakthrough: Heart Muscle Regeneration Offers New Hope for Healing

Researchers at the University of Arizona College of Medicine have made a groundbreaking discovery that could transform the treatment of heart failure and potentially other conditions ...more

Arthritis ,Treatment &About Arthritis

January 05, 20252 min read

New Insights Into Migraine Treatment for Older Adults: Balancing Risks and Benefits

New Insights Into Migraine Treatment for Older Adults: Balancing Risks and Benefits

Exciting new research sheds light on the safety of second-generation triptans—popular migraine medications—for adults aged 65 and older. The findings provide important guidance for tailoring migraine ... ...more

Arthritis ,Treatment &About Arthritis

January 02, 20252 min read

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Effects of Arthritis

Cause of Disability

In the United States, 23% of all adults, or more than 54 million people, have arthritis. It is a leading cause of work disability, with annual costs for medical care and lost earnings of $303.5 billion.

Workforce Effects

Sixty percent of US adults with arthritis are of working age (18 to 64 years). Arthritis can limit the type of work they are able to do or keep them from working at all.

Global Impact

In fact, 8 million working-age adults report that their ability to work is limited because of their arthritis. For example, they may have a hard time climbing stairs or walking from a parking deck to their workplace.

Promoting Interventions That Reduce Arthritis Pain

American Arthritis Foundation recognizes several proven approaches to reduce arthritis symptoms:

  • Be active. Physical activity—such as walking, bicycling, and swimming—decreases arthritis pain and improves function, mood, and quality of life. Adults with arthritis should move more and sit less throughout the day. Getting at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week is recommended.

  • Protect your joints. People can help prevent osteoarthritis by avoiding activities that are more likely to cause joint injuries.

  • Talk with a doctor. Recommendations from health care providers can motivate people to be physically active and join a self-management education program. Should your arthritis be interfering with your activities of daily living you may be a candidate to receive many new treatments, and learn how to reverse the arthritis condition.

Learn more about Arthritis:

Arthritis Advice

Get better control of your arthritis with help from our experts. Arthritis can be confusing, but don't worry, we have the tips you need to make it easier to manage.

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