Wellness Center can help with managing pain of arthritis

In the United States, arthritis affects one in five adults and almost 300,000 children, which adds up to approximately 46 million Americans. This disease is the most common cause of disability in the U.S. and it is estimated by the year 2030, 67 million Americans will have this crippling disease.

May is National Arthritis Awareness Month, a month intended to encourage people to learn more about this disease. Arthritis is a joint disorder in which joints are damaged or inflamed.
General symptoms include pain and stiffness in or around joints. The most common form of arthritis, osteoarthritis, is caused by age, trauma to the joint or infection of the joint. Other main forms of arthritis include rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis, which are autoimmune diseases where the body attacks itself.

There are several risk factors which have been shown to increase the chances of developing arthritis including:

Genetics: Family history has been proven to contribute to the development of arthritis, though it is not completely clear how.

Age: Cartilage becomes more brittle with age and the ability to repair itself decreases.

Weight: Excess body weight can wear on joints causing damage, especially in the knees and hips.
Because there is no cure, managing arthritis is vital. Treatment options vary depending on the specific type of arthritis, however, the most effective way to prevent or reduce the effects of arthritis is to stay physically active, maintain a healthy weight and avoid injuries.

The Wellness Center at Marion County Medical Center can help prevent further damage and disability due to arthritis. Their TechnoGym Equipment uses personalized fitness plans, which enable users of any age or fitness level to exercise in a safe manner and at their own pace.

By going to the doctor at the first sign of arthritis symptoms, you can start a treatment plan that will help protect your joints and lessen arthritis pain.
In observance of National Arthritis Awareness Month, Marion Regional Healthcare System encourages people to learn about arthritis in hopes of bringing public awareness to the Pee Dee about this painful disease.