The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that around 23% of all adults living in the United States have arthritis.

During Arthritis Awareness Month, our team at AFC Urgent Care Indian Trail wants to share some tips about what you can do to help reduce your risk of arthritis.

Am I at Risk for Arthritis?

Although there are many types of arthritis, the two main types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is brought on by the normal wear and tear of joints as we age, while rheumatoid arthritis is a medical condition associated with your immune system attacking the lining of your joints.

There are many factors that can put you at a higher risk for arthritis in life, such as your family medical history, advanced age, obesity and having had a past joint injury. While there is currently no cure for arthritis, there are things that you can do to help lower your risk for arthritis, as well as help to alleviate the pain associated with the condition.

Arthritis Symptoms

• Pain
• Stiffness
• Swelling
• Redness
• Decreased range of motion

What Can You Do to Lower Your Risk of Arthritis Flare-ups?

The key to treating arthritis is to prevent the symptoms as best as possible. In order to avoid achy joints, you want to try to follow a healthy diet, which includes eating fish that is rich in omega-3 fatty acids.

In addition, you want to aim to maintain a healthy weight, as carrying extra weight can put extra pressure on your joints and cause more arthritis pain. Exercising by itself can also help you to reduce your symptoms of arthritis.

Joint-friendly Exercises for Arthritis

• Walking
• Swimming
• Strength training
• Cycling
• Yoga
• Tai chi

Think you may be experiencing arthritis? Schedule an AFC TeleCare appointment with AFC Urgent Care Indian Trail for a diagnosis and treatment plan.