In Canada there are 6 million people who live with arthritis. This disease can be isolating, unpredictable, effects mental health and can affect people of any age. This month we want to help bring awareness to this disease which affects 1 in 4 women, 1 in 6 men and 25,000 children.
Arthritis is Canada’s most common chronic disease – for which there is currently no cure. The term arthritis is used to describe over 100 different types of inflammation in the joints or other areas of the body. Most people with arthritis experience chronic pain, fatigue from mild to severe symptoms. The disease can affect any part of the body and the inflammation can cause pain, swelling, stiffness, restricted mobility and diminishes quality of life.
Some of the risk factors for arthritis:
- Genetics
- Overweight and Obesity
- Physical inactivity
- Joint Injuries
- Smoking
- Infection
- Occupation
- Diet
- Age
- Gender
The treatment for arthritis should be tailored to each individual as everyone is affected differently. People living with arthritis should seek guidance and support from their family doctor. There are also ways you can help yourself with self-management. Depending on the type of arthritis you have it can range from:
- Physical activity
- Learn how to protect your joints
- Effective weight management
- Eating well
- Supplements
- Heat and cold treatments
- Relaxation and coping skills
- Occupational therapy
- Physiotherapy
To learn more about the types of arthritis, risk factors, self-management resources, how to support arthritis research and get involved visit
www.arthritis.ca for more information.
Whitevalley Resource Center would like to thank our sponsors, The United Way, and Interior Health.
