• Gender: The risk for arthritis is higher for women than men; in 2007, Michigan women had a 24% higher risk than men.
• Older age: Arthritis risk increases with age.
• Obesity: The most common type of arthritis, osteoarthritis, is associated with obesity in adults.
• Joint injuries: Sports, occupational and repetitive motion joint injuries increase the risk of arthritis.

What has been shown to help people with arthritis?

• Medical management: early diagnosis and appropriate medical management are associated with an enhanced quality of life. See a health care provider.
• Medications: for some types of arthritis, medications can limit disease progression, control symptoms and prevent serious complications.
• Physical activity: regular, moderate exercise helps maintain joint health, relieves pain and improves function.
• Reducing excess weight: can reduce the risk of knee osteoarthritis and limit progression of disease.
• Self-management programs: can help to reduce arthritis-related pain and decrease physician visits.