This article is part of the Arthritis Archives.
Dateline: April 22, 2003
National Arthritis Month
The Arthritis Foundation kicks off National Arthritis Month the first weekend in May by encouraging the more than 70 million people with arthritis to seek more life and fewer limitations.
Whether mild or severe, arthritis – the nation’s leading cause of disability – can prevent a person from fully engaging in daily activities, such as:
- getting dressed
- opening a door
- driving a car
People with arthritis can take action to prevent arthritis from imposing limits on their lives.
More Life, Less Limits
In conjunction with National Arthritis Month, the Arthritis Foundation wants to inspire Americans to take control of their joint health with a simple phrase: "More Life, Less Limits." Whether talking to a health care provider, beginning a physical activity program or losing weight, taking an active role in improving your joint health today can allow you to live life to the fullest and avoid future limitations of decreased mobility.
The impact of arthritis has been underscored for decades. Current statistics show one in three adults and nearly 300,000 children are living with arthritis or chronic joint symptoms. The Arthritis Foundation is educating people that they can have a real impact on their health and quality of life by taking control of their joint health.
At walking events and other Arthritis Foundation events throughout the year, consumers are encouraged to take control of their joint health. Volunteers with the Arthritis Foundation can offer suggestions about local programs and services, and provide information on how to start a walking program today for improved overall health. Walking can reduce joint pain and stiffness, build strong muscles around the joints and increase flexibility and endurance, and is a safe, joint-healthy activity for almost everyone.
Healthy Lifestyle Measures
Although genetics can put a person at risk for arthritis, there are a number of healthy lifestyle measures people can take to prevent and manage arthritis.
- See Your Doctor - See your health care provider at the earliest signs of arthritis, and for a routine check-up at least once a year. Request an examination of your joints and ask for suggestions on protecting your joints from daily activities. It’s never too soon to learn self-management techniques.
- Get Moving - For limber joints, a strong heart and a lifted spirit, walking is one of the simplest forms of physical activity and a great way to lose weight. Research has shown that losing as little as 11 pounds may cut your risk of osteoarthritis of the knee by 50 percent. Remember to speak with your doctor before beginning a walking regimen.
- Get Involved - The Arthritis Walk is the perfect way for you to help yourself and others. You can get moving, get informed about the signs of arthritis, and raise money for research critical to finding new therapies, treatments and ultimately a cure for arthritis, as well as community-based programs and services in your hometown. Arthritis Foundation walking events across the country can be found at www.arthritis.org.
"The Arthritis Foundation is a lifelong partner for people with arthritis," said Carol Klimas, Chair of the Arthritis Foundation. "We want all Americans to know arthritis can be controlled and we are here to help, with programs, products and services to help people with arthritis lead a more active, fulfilling life – a life with fewer limits." The Arthritis Foundation is offering a FREE Arthritis Today 2003 Walking Guide, which includes a 12-question joint health quiz, facts on walking benefits, mistakes to avoid, and expert advice on creating a walking program for your life. For a free copy, contact the Arthritis Foundation at 800-283-7800 or visit www.arthritis.org.
Related Resources
Source: The Arthritis Foundation
First published: 4/22/2003
