There are more than 100 different kinds of arthritis. Around 33 million Americans have osteoarthritis, which is the most common type. Anyone can develop arthritis, but there are certain factors that could increase your risk of this chronic condition.
About 54 million American adults have arthritis. Arthritis is one of the leading causes of disability, and it’s estimated that 350 million people are living with arthritis throughout the world. It’s a degenerative joint condition that causes pain, stiffness, and swelling — and it has the power to limit your life.
At R2 Wellness Centers we have a comprehensive approach to arthritis management and pain relief. Whether you’re starting to notice the early signs of joint pain, or you have more advanced joint damage, we’re here to help you understand arthritis.
Understanding your risk factors for arthritis
Osteoarthritis is nicknamed wear-and-tear arthritis because it develops as your joints break down with age. Everyone is at risk for arthritis, but some factors could make an arthritis diagnosis more likely for you.
Age
Slick cartilage cushions the bones in your joints and helps them move smoothly, but years of use break down cartilage, then bones begin to grind against each other. Your joints age with you and getting older increases your risk of osteoarthritis. Arthritis gets more common in your 50s, 60s, and beyond.
Bodyweight
Your joints — especially your hips, knees, and ankles — support your body weight as you move. Being overweight or obese increases your risk of osteoarthritis because carrying extra weight increases strain on your joints.
Obesity can make joints break down prematurely, which could put you at risk for arthritis at an earlier age.
Gender
Women are three and a half times more likely to develop osteoarthritis than men, so if you’re a woman, you could be at risk for arthritis. This increased risk is linked to differences in female musculoskeletal structure, biomechanics, and hormone levels.
Previous injury or overuse
If you’ve suffered a joint injury, it could increase your risk for arthritis. Even if your injury healed long ago, damage to tendons and ligaments in the joint could lead to faster deterioration and arthritis over time.
Overuse over the years could make certain joints more susceptible to arthritis too. If your occupation involves repetitive motion, you may be more likely to develop arthritis.
Underlying health conditions
Your overall health and medical history play a role in your arthritis risk. For example, diabetes is a common metabolic disease that increases your risk of being overweight or obese, and it could also increase your risk of arthritis.
Genetics affects your joints, too. People with a family history of osteoarthritis or other types of arthritis may be more likely to develop a joint condition themselves.
Treating your arthritis symptoms
If you have risk factors for arthritis, don’t wait to see a doctor. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition, which means it gets worse over time. But early intervention can slow or stop joint damage.
Our team works with arthritis patients of all ages to improve their symptoms and help them stay active. Your arthritis treatment plan may include a combination of therapy, chiropractic adjustments, dietary recommendations, supplementation, and at-home exercises.
Throughout your program, we will evaluate your treatment to ensure you’re getting all tools for success after your time at R2 Wellness Centers. Most people find that conservative treatment and an active lifestyle help them keep arthritis symptoms at bay, but surgery may be an option in more severe cases.
Learn more about your risk of arthritis and how to help your body today by booking a consultation at R2 Wellness Centers. Book online or call us at 219.696-8916 to get started today.
