Arthritis health refers to the well-being of the joints and the ability to move freely without pain or inflammation. Arthritis is an umbrella term for over 100 different conditions that affect the joints, causing pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced range of motion. The two most common types are osteoarthritis, which involves wear and tear of the cartilage in joints, and rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation in the joints. Both types can affect daily activities and reduce quality of life if not managed properly.
Maintaining good arthritis health is important because untreated arthritis can lead to joint damage, disability, and chronic pain. It affects the body's mobility and can interfere with work, social activities, and overall independence.
Several factors affect arthritis health, including age, genetics, injuries, obesity, and autoimmune conditions. Excessive weight can put additional stress on weight-bearing joints like the knees, worsening arthritis symptoms. Regular physical activity, a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing stress are all essential in reducing the impact of arthritis and improving joint function.
