CDC program provides natural self-management techniques for people living with arthritis

In the United States, March is Women's History Month.  While it is a time to reflect on the contributions women have made to the fields of politics, art, science, medicine and elsewhere, it is also a time to pay attention to the issues that women today are facing in their daily lives. 

A Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) study shows that 47.5 million U.S. adults reported a disability in 2005, which is an increase of 3.4 million from 1999.  As disability numbers continue to rise, the CDC Arthritis Program wants to make clear that those with arthritis can gain control through easy, natural self-management techniques.  One of the best treatments is simple - get moving! Physical activity and weight management are naturally effective ways to alleviate pain caused by joint swelling and stiffness

Arthritis is the most common cause of disability in the United States, ahead of both back problems and heart trouble, and has been the most common cause of disability for at least the last 15 years.  Women throughout America are living with the discomfort and limitations that come with arthritis. The CDC can work with women to help them get the information they need to improve their quality of life.  Below are some facts and examples of simple lifestyle changes that enable people to combat arthritis disability:

• Two hours and 30 minutes a week of moderate, low-impact physical activity helps to reduce pain and improve function, mood, and quality of life for adults with arthritis.
• Self-management education programs help arthritis patients improve pain, mood, fatigue and ability to move.
• One pound of excess weight is equivalent to four pounds on the knees and, conversely, one pound lost relieves four pounds of stress on the knees.

These tips would add an interesting perspective to your coverage of Women's health issues, especially in a month where the focus will be on the lives of women.  Arthritis experts at the CDC are available to help to craft stories, lists, and info-graphics, as well as other interesting ways to not only report on how arthritis affects women, but to offer suggestion on how they can improve their quality of like.

If you would like to receive additional tips and recommendations on arthritis, self-management techniques, please visit http://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/index.htm.  Please contact Kevin Lawlor for additional information, to be connected with spokespeople, or otherwise assisted with any potential coverage of this important and timely issue.  You can also be set up with video, audio or print testimonials from people in your region who could add a personal take on being a woman living with arthritis.