Approximately 92 million adults are diagnosed with arthritis by a healthcare provider or report suffering from arthritis-like symptoms.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis, also called degenerative joint disease, affects more than 30 million Americans.
In osteoarthritis, the cartilage breaks down over time, causing pain and increased difficulty moving the joints.
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There may also be visible bone spurs in the joint’s margins.
Osteoarthritis is more common among men under the age of 45, but more common among women over 45.
Women over 60 are twice as likely to develop arthritis symptoms than men.
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Other symptoms include numbness, weakness, burning, or tingling in the legs.
Knee Arthritis
The prevalence ofknee osteoarthritishas been increasing in the United States each year.
Pain and stiffness in the neck are the most common symptoms.
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They often respond well to conservative treatments like pain medications and physical therapy.
Rest or lying down often helps to relieve symptoms.
The most common symptoms of shoulder arthritis include pain, stiffness, and loss of range of motion.
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As arthritis progresses, any movement of the shoulder can cause pain.
Over time, arthritis can cause noticeable deformation of the finger joints.
If left untreated, rheumatoid arthritis can cause permanent and irreversible joint damage.
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Women are two to three times more likely to be diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis than men.
Psoriatic arthritis can affect the joints of the entire body and result in permanent joint damage if left untreated.
Treatment is aimed at promoting remission and preventing joint damage.
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How Is Arthritis Diagnosed?
When to See a Healthcare Provider
Symptoms of arthritis can worsen over time if left untreated.
Summary
Arthritis can sometimes cause visible changes, such as knobby joints.
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However, you often need an X-ray to see the effects of arthritis.
Arthritis symptoms can vary from mild discomfort to significant disability that can limit everyday activities.
Other types of arthritis include rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis.
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Arthritis Foundation.What Is Arthritis?
Arthritis Foundation.Arthritis by the numbers: Book of trusted facts and figures.
Johns Hopkins Medicine.Spinal arthritis (arthritis in the back or neck).
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American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons.
OrthoInfo.Osteoarthritis of the hip.
American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons.
Illustration by Verywell
OrthoInfo.Cervical spondylosis (arthritis of the neck).
American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons.
OrthoInfo.Arthritis of the shoulder.
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American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons.
OrthoInfo.Arthritis of the hand.
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