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Facts about Arthritis
Facts about Arthritis: Arthritis is a general term used to describe joint inflammation. It refers to a group of conditions that affect the joints and surrounding tissues, causing pain, stiffness, and difficulty in movement. Arthritis can affect people of all ages, genders, and races, but it’s more common among older adults. It can occur in any joint in the body, but the most commonly affected joints are the knees, hips, hands, and spine. Arthritis can be managed with medication, physical therapy, lifestyle changes, and in severe cases, surgery.
Types of Arthritis
There are many types of arthritis, but the two most common are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
1. Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones wears down over time, leading to pain, stiffness, and loss of mobility.
2. Rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis, on the other hand, is an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the joints, causing inflammation, swelling, and pain.
Facts about Arthritis
Here are some facts about arthritis:
- Arthritis affects millions of people worldwide, and it’s the leading cause of disability in the United States.
- Arthritis is not a single disease but a group of more than 100 different conditions, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and lupus.
- Arthritis can affect people of all ages, including children.
- Women are more likely to develop arthritis than men.
- Arthritis can cause joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility.
- There is no cure for arthritis, but treatment can help manage symptoms and prevent further joint damage.
- Some risk factors for developing arthritis include age, genetics, obesity, joint injuries, and infections.
- Exercise and physical therapy can help improve joint function and reduce pain and stiffness in people with arthritis.
- Certain foods, such as those high in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, may help reduce inflammation and pain in people with arthritis.
- While arthritis is a chronic condition, many people with the disease can live active and fulfilling lives with proper management and treatment.
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