May marks Arthritis Awareness Month, an annual campaign dedicated to shining a light on arthritis, a group of over 100 conditions, linked by the common symptom of swollen painful joints.
Arthritis is the leading cause of disability in the US, so it makes sense that we have a whole month dedicated to increasing understanding of the widespread impact of living with joint pain.
Here are 4 reasons why we work to raise awareness around arthritis...
1. Arthritis Is Misunderstood
One of the biggest challenges for arthritis patients is that loved ones simply don’t understand what it’s like to live with arthritis.
When most people hear the word arthritis they assume ‘aging’.
However, the majority of arthritis patients are aged under 65. It affects people of all ages, including children.
Raising awareness helps to spread knowledge about the day-to-day realities to educate friends and family.
2. Early Treatment Leads To Better Outcomes
Arthritic conditions are progressive and degenerative. There is no cure for arthritis.
Treatments are designed to reduce pain and inflammation and preserve joint function.
Early detection significantly improves management strategies, helping to slow disease progression and maintain quality of life.
Awareness campaigns help people identify symptoms and access treatment sooner, leading to better outcomes.
3. We Are Stronger Together
Living with arthritis can be isolating.
Connecting individuals to a larger community where they can find support, share experiences, and access valuable resources has huge benefits.
Knowing you’re not alone can be incredibly empowering.
That's why we partner with The Foundation For Autoimmune and Autoinflammatory Arthritis (AiArthritis) to raise awareness and funding via sales of the Chili Red Compression Glove.
4. Awareness Attracts Funding For Research
Public awareness is critical in attracting funding for research into more effective treatments and even potential cures for arthritis.
Each conversation, social media post, and fundraising event helps direct more resources toward combating arthritis.
Arthritis Awareness Month is a vital opportunity to change perceptions and enhance the lives of those living with arthritis.
This May, let’s rally together to spread knowledge and foster a world where arthritis is recognized, understood, and actively combated!
Your involvement can make a big difference!