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

Understanding the 100+ Different Types of Arthritis and Their Specific Treatments: A Complete Guide for Older Adults

Understanding the 100+ Different Types of Arthritis and Their Specific Treatments: A Complete Guide for Older Adults

If you're reading this because you or someone you love has been dealing with joint pain, stiffness, or has recently been diagnosed with arthritis, take a deep breath. You're joining a community of nea... ...more

Treatment ,About Arthritis Osteoarthritis Rheumatoid Arthritis Psoriatic Arthritis Gout Axial Spondyloarthritis Juvenile Arthritis &Pain Management

June 20, 20257 min read

How Integrative Medicine Combines Mind-Body Techniques and Nutritional Interventions for Better Health

How Integrative Medicine Combines Mind-Body Techniques and Nutritional Interventions for Better Health

Imagine walking into your doctor's office and instead of just getting a prescription, you receive a comprehensive plan that includes meditation techniques, nutritional guidance, and lifestyle changes ... ...more

Arthritis ,Treatment About Arthritis Osteoarthritis &Rheumatoid Arthritis

June 18, 202511 min read

Osteoarthritis Surges Among Postmenopausal Women

Osteoarthritis Surges Among Postmenopausal Women

Osteoarthritis (OA)—a condition long associated with aging and joint wear—is increasingly affecting a specific demographic: postmenopausal women. A new global study published in BMJ Global Health has ... ...more

Arthritis ,About Arthritis &Osteoarthritis

May 21, 20253 min read

Living Well with Psoriatic Arthritis: Your Roadmap to Better Days

Living Well with Psoriatic Arthritis: Your Roadmap to Better Days

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is the arthritis that likes to hide in plain sight. Affecting up to 30% of people with psoriasis, this condition often flies under the radar for years—dismissed as "just back... ...more

Treatment ,About Arthritis Osteoarthritis Rheumatoid Arthritis &Psoriatic Arthritis

May 10, 20256 min read

Five Wallet-Friendly Ways to Ease Knee Osteoarthritis

Five Wallet-Friendly Ways to Ease Knee Osteoarthritis

Living with knee osteoarthritis (OA) can feel like every step steals a little freedom. The good news is that several low-cost, holistic approaches can dial down pain, boost mobility, and put control b... ...more

About Arthritis ,Osteoarthritis &Pain Management

May 08, 20253 min read

The Power of Provider Guidance: How Healthcare Teams Can Transform Flu Vaccination Rates in Young Patients with Rheumatic Diseases

The Power of Provider Guidance: How Healthcare Teams Can Transform Flu Vaccination Rates in Young Patients with Rheumatic Diseases

New research reveals that healthcare provider recommendations are a game-changer for protecting immunocompromised children ...more

Treatment ,About Arthritis Osteoarthritis &Rheumatoid Arthritis

April 07, 20258 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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