World Arthritis Day: Raising Awareness, Inspiring Hope
12 October 2024
Imagine waking up every day with aching joints, struggling just to hold a coffee cup or tie your shoes.
According to the World Health Organization, approximately 7% of the global population was living with osteoarthritis in 2019. This is not merely an occasional ache, but a persistent, life-altering condition. While commonly associated with older adults, nearly two-thirds of arthritis patients are under the age of 65, including young adults, teens, and even children. Arthritis doesn’t discriminate by age, background, or lifestyle. Beyond causing joint pain it significantly diminishes quality of life by limiting mobility, impacting emotional and social well-being, and reducing work productivity. This condition also places a tremendous burden on families and healthcare systems globally.
As there is no cure for arthritis, a preventative and proactive approach is essential to mitigate its debilitating impact. Regular low-impact exercises like swimming, cycling, and yoga can strengthen muscles around the joints, improve mobility, and reduce pain. A diet rich in omega-3 rich fish, nuts, and leafy greens can also help reduce manage symptoms. Weight management, use of adaptive equipment, and proper use of medicines are key in reducing pain and inflammation.
Meanwhile, advances in medical treatments have provided new hope for arthritis sufferers. Biologic drugs, have been highly effective in targeting specific components of the immune system responsible for joint inflammation. Recent research has also pointed to the potential of regenerative therapies like stem cell treatment and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, which may help repair damaged cartilage and slow disease progression. Early detection of arthritis allows for more tailored and effective treatment plans, which can slow disease progression and mitigate long-term joint damage.
“I play racquetball… swim… rollerblade… ride bikes… hike… play guitar. I feel great. You know, the thing is you have to get the proper diagnosis and then you can get the proper treatment. Then you can put it (Rheumatoid Arthritis) behind you and live a full and eventful life.”
-Camryn Manheim