Research Reveals Another Reason Disabled Americans Should Get Active
Many of the 21 million Americans suffering from joint pain caused by osteoarthritis fear the repetitive motion and weight placed on joints during exercise will lead to further joint injury and pain. A study released in January 2007 helps ease those concerns. David Felson, M.D., evaluated the knees of 1,279 people over a nine year period and concluded moderate exercise does not increase the risk of getting the most common form of arthritis, osteoarthritis (OA).
Dr. Felson’s study also reaffirmed that obesity is a major risk factor for knee OA. Other studies have shown that losing just 10 pounds reduces pressure on the knee by 40 pounds, and that losing as few as 11 pounds can reduce a woman’s risk of developing knee osteoarthritis by 50 percent.
“Dr. Felson’s finding is welcome news for people who are at risk for developing osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis in the U.S., which effects 21 million Americans and results in significant joint pain and disability,” said Patience White, M.D., chief public health officer of the Arthritis Foundation. “This study reassures us that moderate to high intensity recreational physical activity, with its many health benefits, will not result in increasing their risk of developing painful osteoarthritis.”
While more research is needed in this area, the Arthritis Foundation encourages middle-aged and older Americans at risk for osteoarthritis to consult their physician about beginning a physical activity regimen. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends 30 minutes of physical activity of at least moderate intensity most days of the week.
The Arthritis Foundation Aquatic ProgramTM and the Arthritis Foundation Exercise ProgramTM follow CDC recommendations and have also been proven to reduce pain in people with arthritis.
For more information about Arthritis Foundation health and education programs in Maryland, call 800-365-3811, X239 or visit www.arthritis.org and type in your zip code.
Arthritis Foundation
The Arthritis Foundation is the leading health organization addressing the needs of some 46 million Americans living with arthritis, the nation’s number-one cause of disability. Founded in 1948, with headquarters in Atlanta, the Arthritis Foundation has 46 chapters and 150 community service points located throughout the country.
The Arthritis Foundation is the largest private, not-for-profit contributor to arthritis research in the world, funding more than $380 million in research grants since 1948. The Maryland Chapter funds nearly $1 million on this research annually. The foundation helps individuals take control of arthritis by providing public health education; pursuing public policy and legislation; and conducting evidence-based programs to improve the quality of life for those living with arthritis.