Question:

How common is arthritis?

Arthritis Information

The term “arthritis” is a general term for over 100 different rheumatic diseases and conditions. The most common form is osteoarthritis. Other common forms are rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia and gout. All of these conditions are present as pain, aching, stiffness and joint swelling (in and around joints).

Arthritis is more common for adults who are 65 and older, but it can affect people of all ages, including children. Women tend to suffer from one form or another of arthritis more than men (24.4 percent for women, 18.1 percent for men). Arthritis does not discriminate when it comes to racial and ethnic groups.

With almost 19 million adults in the United States reporting activity limitations, arthritis is the nations most common cause of disability. One in 20 persons aged 18 to 64 years report that arthritis limits their work.

Arthritis pain can be managed with exercise. More than half of the adults with diabetes or heart disease also suffer from some form of arthritis pain. Exercising not only helps to control arthritis pain, but makes a person healthier overall and can reduce risk of other conditions and disease.

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