Tanner News

Arthritis is the leading cause of physical disability in the U.S. One in every six adults suffers from some type of arthritis, and as the U.S. population grows older, that number could nearly double by 2030.

Arthritis and other joint problems can cause pain and affect how well people function on a daily basis.

Gout Contributes to Joint Problems

Currently, about 21.4 million people age 65 and older have arthritis or chronic joint symptoms. The most common types of arthritis include:

• Osteoarthritis, caused by worn cartilage in the joints
• Rheumatoid arthritis, a disease affecting the lining of joints
• Gout, the result of crystal-like deposits in the joints that cause pain and swelling, often in the big toe

Strength Exercises May Stave Off Arthritis

While older adults have the highest risk of arthritis, younger people also are affected. In fact, the majority of people with arthritis are younger than age 65. Taking care of joints now can protect them from some forms of arthritis down the road.

To help preserve your joints:

• Stay a healthy weight. This trims your risk of developing arthritis. If you are overweight, shedding pounds can lower your risk for osteoarthritis in the knee.
• Get regular exercise. This helps keep your weight in check and maintains your joint health. Moderate, regular running has been linked to a lower risk for osteoarthritis. On the other hand, more intense, high-impact sports — as well as those that involve a lot of twisting — may boost risk. These include soccer, baseball and football.
• Avoid joint injuries. Strengthening exercises can help prevent injuries that may lead to arthritis. For example, strengthening the quadriceps muscle in the leg can cut the risk for knee osteoarthritis.

What also protects against arthritis: warming up before exercise and wearing proper protective gear, such as kneepads for football, during physical activity.

Learn more about arthritis in the online Health Library at tanner.org.