How to Identify the Risk Factors for Arthritis

Arthritis is a broad term that encompasses more than 100 types of rheumatic diseases and conditions that affect the tissues around the joints. Some types of arthritis are present in joints and are recognized by stiffness and pain in and around the joint. Other types of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, affect the immune system, lungs, stomach and other internal organs.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Back support

Identify Unchangeable Risk Factors

1. Expect to be more vulnerable to developing some type of arthritis if you're a woman. Statistics show that 60 percent of arthritic patients are women. Men have a greater tendency to develop gout (or gouty arthritis).
2. Take into account your genetics. There are specific genes that increase the risk of developing certain types of arthritis. The most common familial arthritic conditions are rheumatoid, systemic lupus erythematous and ankylosing spondylitis.
3. Identify factors such as genetics, along with physical and emotional stress, to be potential contributors to the development of fibromyalgia. This condition of muscle and joint pain and fatigue is more common in women than men.
4. Accept the fact that the risk of developing arthritis increases with age. According to the American College of Rheumatology, osteoarthritis, more commonly known as degenerative arthritis, is found in approximately 21 million individuals in the United States (see Resources below).

Determine Controllable Risk Factors

5. Keep your weight under control. Obesity is a big factor in osteoarthritis, particularly in the knee joints.
6. Seek appropriate medical attention for any injury to a joint. The tissue in a joint is easily damaged during a stress fracture or any type of injury. Early intervention and treatment will reduce the effect joint injuries have on developing arthritis later in life.
7. Report any infection to your doctor immediately. Infections such as gonorrhea can cause arthritis in joints, particularly the knees. Appropriate antibiotic intervention is required to reduce the potential for developing gonorrheal arthritis.
8. Identify ways to avoid injury related to certain occupations. Repetitive actions such as squatting, bending or heavy lifting may result in the development of arthritis in the knee joints and lower back.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear back supports designed for heavy lifting to reduce the chances of injury to weakened back muscles and joints.
• Evaluate your modifiable risk factors and reduce your potential for developing arthritis. Eat a well-balanced diet and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
• Certain types of arthritis, such as systemic lupus emphysematous and rheumatoid arthritis, must be diagnosed early to reduce the irreversible damage to joints and internal organs.