If you have arthritis, you know just how debilitating the condition can be. Pain, swelling, and decreased range of motion are all common problems. But there’s probably a lot more about the disease that you aren’t aware of. Here are six surprising facts about arthritis you might not know.
- Arthritis Isn’t Just One Disease
Arthritis is actually an umbrella term for over 120 separate diseases that affect the soft tissues, muscles, and joints. So, the next time someone says they have arthritis, ask which kind they’re dealing with. The most common variant is osteoarthritis, which affects 31 million Americans.
- Arthritis Is the United States’ Leading Cause of Disability
No, it’s not amputations, old age, or other conditions. Arthritis tops the charts as the leading cause of disability among adults in the United States, with around 54 million people having some form of the condition.
- Arthritis Is More Common in Women Than in Men
Unfortunately, women are more likely to develop arthritis, especially when it comes to rheumatoid arthritis. Far more women have this disease than men. Overall, 26% of women have arthritis, compared to 18% of men.
- Arthritis Often Presents Alongside Other Chronic Conditions
Did you know that 49% of people with heart disease also have arthritis? Diabetes and obesity are two other comorbid conditions, with 47% and 31% also having arthritis, respectively.
- Arthritis Costs a Lot
Arthritis was found to be the second most expensive condition to have. Research shows that arthritis is “among the most expensive conditions to treat when joint replacement surgery is required.” In 2013, it cost a total of $16.5 billion dollars, which is 4.3 percent of the cost of every hospitalization that year.
- Arthritis Doesn’t Always Require Surgery
One of the best knee pain treatments in Orlando is the revolutionary KneeVisc 5® plan. This nonsurgical knee treatment can stop weight and joint pain through a process called Visco-Supplementation. Whether you’re just developing osteoarthritis, or you’ve had rheumatoid arthritis for years, KneeVisc 5® provides lubrication, realignment, and strength to promote healthy knees, hips, and other joints.
For those struggling with arthritis, treatment with KneeVisc 5® is a great way to return your functionality and mobility without surgery. You can finally receive nonsurgical joint pain relief without any downtime. To learn more and see how Dr. Mattia can help you get pain relief in Orlando, contact the ViscoGen® Clinic today by calling us at 407-627-1148 or scheduling your appointment online.
