I HAVE JOINT PAIN!

Do you suffer from arthritis Or do you know someone who suffers from it? We bet yes. Normal, because arthritis is a fairly common disease.e.

A PREPONDERANCE OF OLDER WOMEN WHO SUFFER FROM ARTHRITIS

Did you know that the 2014 Canadian Community Health Survey indicates 4.8 million Canadians over the age of 15 have been diagnosed with arthritis? And in 2016, that number jumped to 6, 1 million With the aging of the population, the number of people affected by arthritis is growing.e.

The survey also reveals a preponderance of women struggling with the problem. The older they get, the more they suffer from arthritis. Elderly women therefore constitute the group most affected by the disease.

But, good news if you are Quebecois! The proportion of people who live in La Belle Province with a diagnosis of arthritis is lower than the national average, with a rate of 11% versus 16.5% for all Canadians.

SOURCES OF DISCOMFORT

But why is arthritis so painful? In fact, the pain caused by arthritis comes from a deterioration of the cartilage. Consequently, when it is affected by arthritis, it no longer fulfills its function of protecting bones because it no longer absorbs shock well..

The pain is then felt in the knees, hips or even the hands and feet. Further, arthritis can also cause swelling, stiffness or cracking in the joints. It makes the lives of people who suffer from it difficult.

RISK FACTORS FOR ARTHRITIS

You have suffered joint injuries in the past Or, one of your parents was affected If so, you are unfortunately more likely to suffer from arthritis. Although the disease is not hereditary, genetics is a strong factor in the development of arthritis. A study carried out in France on patients with rheumatoid arthritis showed that the risks increase in the children of those affected; i.e. 2% for boys and 6% for girls.s.

You are overweight Then you are more likely to suffer from the disease. But for what reason? Simply because of the additional strain that being overweight puts on their joints. The same goes for a sedentary lifestyle, as the overall weakening of muscles leads to greater pressure on the joints.s.

PAIN RELIEF

Arthritis is considered a chronic disease; it cannot be cured. Research is progressing in the area, but unfortunately we have not yet succeeded in curbing the disease! How to live with this suffering Which solutions to turn to Of course, depending on the type of arthritis, the pharmacological approach can be effective. But, because it is a chronic disease, taking medication long-term leads people to consider other solutions to relieve their pain.s.

1. Lose weight

From a lifestyle point of view, why not consider weight loss? It's proven! People who are overweight need to reduce the pressure on their joints; a 5% weight loss in 5 months helps reduce knee pain..

2. Eat well

Can eating well provide relief? Yes! The Arthritis Society advises reducing sugar, focusing on a diet rich in colorful plants and favoring healthy fats, such as omega-3..

For her part, nutrition doctor Isabelle Huot highlights the conclusions of research which proves the benefits of antioxidants in the relief of arthritis. Did you know that their function is to neutralize free radicals? This is how they protect the joints and help reduce inflammation caused by arthritis. Try the experience!!

3. Do physical activity

To move! One of the myths about arthritis is that the joints affected by it should be left to rest. Error! People benefit greatly from practicing physical activities. Doctors, physiotherapists or occupational therapists recommend adapted exercises that promote mobility, strengthening and maintaining cardiovascular capabilities.

Stretching, weight-bearing activities such as walking, dancing or tennis, as well as cycling are good examples. Because we must always keep in mind that the important thing is to keep the joints moving to slow down the deterioration of the cartilage.

4. Do yourself good through natural methods

Another solution is to give yourself a moment of respite from the pain by doing yourself some good! Why not treat yourself to a massage therapy treatment, acupuncture or practice meditation You can also take natural supplements! More and more people who suffer from arthritis are finding relief there. Studies also demonstrate their beneficial aspect in reducing the symptoms of affected people. In this regard, glucosamine has proven itself. You probably know someone around you who praises its merits.s?

However, there are new products on the market that are gaining popularity among arthritis sufferers. They combine the action of glucosamine, chondroitin and methyl-sulfonyl-methane (MSM). The complementary properties of these products produce good results; they even act on the preservation of cartilage.

If you think you have arthritis or have been diagnosed, know that Arthritis Society has been working since 1948 to make the lives of those affected better and take care of their illness.

Sources:

Community Health Survey, 2007 to 2014 Statistics Canadaa

Community Health Survey, 2016 Statistics Canadaa

Understanding genetics and its importance in medicine GenHotel CHU Estaing, Clermont-Ferrandd

Rheumatoid Arthritis The Arthritis Societye

Diet and arthritis: an update on the issue! Isabelle Huott