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Inflammation and Joint Health

💡 Did You Know?

 

Globally, an estimated 350 million people suffer from arthritis and joint diseases. In the US alone, 54 to 58 million adults (roughly 1 in 5) live with doctor-diagnosed joint pain and arthritis. Furthermore, systemic chronic inflammation affects approximately 34.6% of U.S. adults.

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Chronic inflammation in the joints can damage cartilage, bones, tendons, or ligaments; irritate nerves; and produce a long list of symptoms, including pain, swelling, and stiffness. The joint damage may be progressive and irreversible, making prevention and management of utmost importance.

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Preventing chronic inflammatory joint pain requires a combination of weight management, an anti-inflammatory diet, and regular low-impact movement to protect your cartilage and reduce stress on your body. Research shows that losing just 5% of body weight can decrease inflammation and reduce pain, and eating an anti-inflammatory diet improves gut health and reduces chronic inflammation.

Quick Facts

Knee Being Examined

Common Joint Disorders

  • Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

  • Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA)

  • Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS)

  • Gout/Pseudogout

  • Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE / Lupus)

  • Arthritis

  • Osteoarthritis

  • Joint Pain

  • Joint Stiffness

 

OPAOrtho: Joint Inflammation: What you need to know.

Health Conditions Linked to Inflammation

Inflammation doesn’t cause every condition, but it may play a role in many of them.
Heart Tissue Anatomy

Heart Health


Studies indicate that chronic inflammation is a major driver of cardiovascular disease and significantly increases the risk of heart attacks, stroke, and heart failur

Learning about these connections can help you take small, meaningful steps toward better health.
Physical Therapy Session

Joint Health


Chronic inflammation damages joints by eroding protective cartilage, leading to stiffness, discomfort, and reduced mobility.

Vintage Brain Illustration

Brain Health


Research indicates that chronic inflammation is a leading driver of cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases, as well as memory and mood changes.

Stethoscope

Metabolic Health


Chronic inflammation creates a persistent, low-grade immune reponse, resulting in "meta-inflammation," a 

primary driver of insulin resistance, weight gain, and metabolic syndrome

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