Arthritis

Over 3 million New Yorkers live with the pain of arthritis. Arthritis can impact your daily life and stop you from doing the things you enjoy. Learn more about what defines arthritis and what the risk factors are, as well as how you can manage your arthritis and not let it stand in your way.

What is Arthritis?

The term "arthritis" covers more than 100 diseases and conditions affecting joints, the surrounding tissues, and other connective tissues, such as tendons and ligaments. Arthritis and other musculoskeletal conditions include:

• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Gout
• Rheumatic Fever
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
• Bursitis
• Tendinitis

You might have arthritis if you are experiencing:

• Pain
• Aching or stiffness in or around a joint within the past 30 days
• Pain, aches and stiffness that has been present for 3 or more months

If you have any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor or health care provider.

What are the risk factors for developing arthritis?

• Women: Women make up about 60% of arthritis cases.
• Older Age: Nearly half of the elderly population has arthritis. Risk increases with age.
• Obesity: Obesity is associated with osteoarthritis in adults and gout in men.
• Joint Injuries: Sports, occupation and repetitive motion joint injuries increase the risk of arthritis. Occupations such as farming, heavy industry, and those with repetitive motion are associated with arthritis.

If you or someone you know is one of the millions of New Yorkers impacted by arthritis, learn how to manage it or visit the statistics and data page for arthritis in New York state to learn more.