Arthritis Foundation of Western PA

Arthritis is known as the silent disease. People living with arthritis often hear, But, you dont look sick! And yet arthritis is the #1 cause of disability in the United States, resulting in more than 40 million outpatient visits, 172 million lost workdays, and a price tag of more than $300 billion annually. Arthritis strikes more than 60 million Americans, including approximately 300,000 children.Simply put, arthritis is joint inflammation (arthr means joint and it is means inflammation). There are two main types of arthritis osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis:        Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis. It is frequently considered to be related to aging along with the usual aches and pains that are common in older people and usually affect the larger joints hips, knees, shoulders, elbows, and ankles.         Rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic, autoimmune disease that usually attacks the smaller joints and internal organs.The Arthritis Foundation recognizes that people living with arthritis have many days of saying no to everyday situations. No, I cant go shopping. No, I cant go to the zoo with the grandkids.At the Arthritis Foundation, we are helping people Live Yes! The Live Yes! Arthritis Network makes connections both in-person and online to empower people to live their best life. People with arthritis find strength in each other, manage stress, and take control of their healthcare. By joining the Network and taking a short 10-minute online assessment, the Arthritis Foundation will personalize information and resources specific to your needs. The questions in the assessment are related to your physical health, social and emotional health, and experience of care. The results of these assessments help drive local programming including education programs and support or Connect groups.When you become part of the Live Yes! Arthritis Network, you see real change in your life. Through robust tools and programs, we educate and connect people with arthritis, both online and in-person, to live their best life. The results are simple: you feel better both physically and emotionally! Editors Note: This article was submitted by Diane White, Community Engagement Director at the Arthritis Foundation. You can reach the Arthritis Foundation at 412-206-5361 or [email protected].

If you're one of the 60 million Americans diagnosed with arthritis, Americas leading cause of disability, you know how pervasive pain can be. Pain impacts the ability to carry out day-to-day tasks and activities and steals time spent with friends and family, potentially leading to social isolation and depression.If this sounds like you or someone you love, its time to take back what chronic pain has taken away. Thats why the Arthritis Foundation is proud to introduce its new Vim app: the latest tool to help you fight against chronic pain.A word defined by energy and enthusiasm, Vim is an all-in-one resource to help you reach your pain management goals, whether running a 5K or walking around the block. Inside the app, youll have free access to a library of expert educational resources to help you live a fuller life, including podcasts, videos, recipes, exercises, and more. Vim also provides a network of community support from others living with arthritis for emotional support and motivation as you achieve your personal goals.And with Vim, keeping a pain diary has never been more convenient. Your doctor will find it useful in updating your treatment plan.Download the Vim app at Google Play or the Apple App Store by searching Vim Arthritis or Vim Pain.