Fast Facts About Arthritis

Arthritis is a general term for conditions that affect the joints, tissues around the joint, and other connective tissues. Here are more fast facts about arthritis:

General Arthritis Facts

• There are more than 100 types of arthritis.
• Specific symptoms vary depending on the type of arthritis, but usually include joint pain and stiffness.
• Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. It occurs most frequently in the hands, hips, and knees.
• Experts don’t know the causes of many forms of arthritis.
• Certain risk factors make it more likely that you will develop arthritis.

Arthritis Statistics

• An estimated 58.5 million US adults have arthritis. Experts believe that number will grow as our nation’s population gets older.
• Arthritis is a leading cause of work disability among US adults.
• An estimated 25.7 million adults are limited in their usual activities because of arthritis. That number is expected to grow to 35 million by 2040.
• Arthritis is common among people with other chronic conditions including obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.

Treating and Managing Arthritis

• There is no cure for arthritis, but it can be treated and managed.
• Treatments include medication, non-drug therapies such as physical therapy or patient education, and sometimes surgery.
• Managing arthritis symptoms is important to reduce pain, prevent or delay disability, and improve overall quality of life.
• CDC’s Arthritis Program recognizes 5 ways to manage arthritis and its symptoms: learn new self-management skills, be active, talk to your doctor, manage your weight, and protect your joints.
• Physical activity programs and self-management education programs teach adults with arthritis how to manage their arthritis symptoms and other related challenges.