The word ‘Arthritis’ is often associated with the elderly, but the reality is that all of us are equally prone to joint issues, no matter the age. The visible signs of Arthritis can be seen as early as the age of 16 years. While the prevalence of arthritis in young adults is lower compared to older populations, the impact can be just as significant, if not more so.
The primary cause of Arthritis is a sedentary lifestyle with long sitting hours, no exercise, lack of nutritious diet, excessive smoking, & consumption of alcohol. Scan through the article to find out more about arthritis management strategies for adults, challenges, and prevention.
Types of Arthritis Commonly Found in Young Adults
Arthritis in young adults is becoming a common phenomenon. The number of cases is on the rise every year. Below are some of the types of arthritis commonly found in young adults.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): RA is an autoimmune disorder that hinders your body’s immune system. It attacks the joints and causes pain, inflammation, and damage. RA can affect individuals of any age, even young adults.
- Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): PsA is a type of arthritis that often develops in people with the skin condition psoriasis. It causes joint pain, swelling, stiffness, as well as other symptoms like nail changes and skin lesions.
- Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA): JIA is a term used to describe a group of inflammatory and autoimmune conditions that can affect children and adolescents. It leads to joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, and may also impact growth and development.
Arthritis Challenges for Young Adults
As a young adult living with arthritis, you may face unique challenges that can significantly impact your daily life. These challenges may include:
- Difficulty Maintaining an Active Lifestyle: Arthritis in young adults can make it challenging to engage in physical activities and exercise, which are essential for overall well-being.
- Emotional and Psychological Impacts: Dealing with a chronic condition at a young age can make you feel upset, frustrated, and socially isolated. This can further worsen the physical symptoms.
- Career and Financial Concerns: Arthritis will affect your day-to-day ability such as performing your job duties, reduced productivity, long medical bills, and potential financial strain.
- Relationship and Family Challenges: Arthritis can affect your ability to participate in social activities, fulfill family responsibilities, & maintain intimate relationships, which can strain personal connections.
- Difficulty Accessing Appropriate Care: Young adults are prone to face barriers in accessing specialized healthcare providers and treatments, primarily because arthritis is often perceived as a condition that affects the elderly.
Arthritis Treatment for Young Adults
Effective management of arthritis in young adults requires a comprehensive approach that combines various treatment modalities. Here are some of the crucial youth arthritis management tips for your reference.
- Medication Management: Your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), or biologic agents to slow the progression, help control inflammation, & reduce pain.
- Physical Therapy and Exercise: Physical therapy loosens up the muscles, maintains joint mobility, improves muscle strength, & enhances overall physical functions.
- Lifestyle Modifications: You must adopt healthy habits, such as maintaining a balanced diet, getting adequate rest, & managing stress.
- Complementary and Alternative Therapies: Many young adults may find relief through complementary treatments, like acupuncture, herbal remedies, or massage in conjunction with conventional medical care.
- Surgical Interventions: In some cases, surgical procedures, like joint replacement or arthroscopic surgery, might be necessary to tackle severe joint damage or improve function.
- Taking Effective Supplements: You can take efficacious supplements that help reduce joint pain & inflammation. These supplements also improve your mobility. You can try three60+ Pain Relief & Joint Mobility tablets that is your ally in arthritis pain management.
Arthritis Prevention in Young Adults
While there is no sure-shot way to prevent the development of arthritis in young adults, there are steps you can take to reduce the risks significantly:
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess body weight places extra stress on your joints and increases the chances of Arthritis progression.
- Engage in Regular Exercise: One can incorporate low-impact activities, such as swimming, gentle strength training, or cycling to help strengthen the muscles and joints. The more flexible your joints are, the lesser the chances of Arthritis setting in.
- Protect Your Joints: Avoid high-impact activities, use assistive devices (e.g., braces, splints) to support & protect your joints, and use proper technique when performing physical tasks.
- Manage Underlying Conditions: If you have a condition that increases the risk of arthritis, such as joint injuries or psoriasis, work closely with your healthcare team to monitor and manage these conditions effectively.
- Maintain a Balanced Diet: Consuming a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and healthy fats, may help support joint health & reduce inflammation.
- Daily Care for Your Joints: Our modern diet lacks the essential vitamins & minerals to keep our joints in great condition. Taking supplements like three60+ Daily Joint Care & Protect tablets regularly can ensure that your bones are in great shape. They strengthen your bones, improve your mobility, & promote cartilage repair.
Arthritis in young adults can be a significant challenge, but with the right strategies and support, it is possible to live a fulfilling and active life. In case you are a young adult living with arthritis, don't hesitate to seek the support and guidance of a healthcare professional. They help in developing a comprehensive management plan to address your specific needs and empower you to live your best life.
