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

Early ACL Surgery May Help Prevent Knee Arthritis, New Study Finds

Early ACL Surgery May Help Prevent Knee Arthritis, New Study Finds

New research suggests timing of ACL reconstruction may play a critical role in long-term joint health ...more

Arthritis ,Treatment About Arthritis &Pain Management

May 20, 20253 min read

Plant-Based Meat Alternatives: A Heart-Healthy Choice?

Plant-Based Meat Alternatives: A Heart-Healthy Choice?

As the popularity of plant-based diets continues to rise, many individuals are turning to plant-based meat alternatives (PBMAs) as substitutes for traditional animal products. Recent research publishe... ...more

Arthritis ,diet &Treatment

May 18, 20252 min read

Taming the Gout Beast

Taming the Gout Beast

If you've ever experienced a gout attack, you know it's unlike any other pain. One minute you're fine, the next your big toe feels like it's being crushed in a vise while simultaneously set on fire. G... ...more

Arthritis ,Treatment About Arthritis &Gout

May 11, 20256 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

Taking Control of Rheumatoid Arthritis: Your Science-Backed Action Plan

Taking Control of Rheumatoid Arthritis: Your Science-Backed Action Plan

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) affects 1.3 million Americans, striking three times more women than men—often during their most productive years. Unlike the "wear-and-tear" arthritis that comes with age, RA... ...more

Arthritis ,Treatment About Arthritis &Rheumatoid Arthritis

May 05, 20255 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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