According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly one-quarter of American adults have been diagnosed with arthritis. That adds up to more than 54 million people.

That’s a lot of people affected by some type of joint discomfort. It’s one of the most common conditions, in fact, among Americans, which is why our team at AFC Urgent Care Smyrna wants to share some facts about arthritis. Read on as we offer some tips.

What Is Arthritis?

Arthritis literally means “joint inflammation,” and it’s not just a single condition. It’s what is known as an umbrella term, encompassing multiple types of a certain condition. While the different types of arthritis work differently and attack the body in different ways, they all cause some type of inflammation around the joints.

There are many different kinds of arthritis, with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis being the most common. Osteoarthritis is by far the most common, affecting around 27 million Americans. This type of arthritis is usually simply the result of wear and tear on the joints as we age.

Symptoms of Arthritis

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

Can Exercise Help Relief My Arthritis Pain?

Yes, actually! While physical activity may be the last thing on your mind if your arthritis is flaring up, exercise can help you find relief.

The act of exercising can actually help ease the joint inflammation that’s the case of pain and discomfort. So find a physical activity that you enjoy but that’s also easy on your joints.

Joint-Friendly Exercises

• Swimming
• Water aerobics
• Walking
• Cycling
• Yoga
• Dance
• Zumba
• Strength training

Feeling less than your best? Stop by AFC Urgent Care Smyrna for a diagnosis and treatment plan to get you back to your best.