Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation and pain in the joints, affecting millions of people worldwide—particularly women. According to the CDC, about 1 in 4 women have been diagnosed with arthritis compared to about 1 in 5 men. At Omnia Health, we believe that understanding how arthritis uniquely affects women is crucial in managing and preventing its long-term effects. Let’s start with an overview of the types of arthritis that are more prevalent among females.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: Women are two to three times more likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis than men and often experience more severe symptoms. It is an autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s joints, which leads to inflammation, pain, and swelling. Smaller joints, such as those in the hands and feet, are typically the first to be affected before progressing to larger joints.
Osteoarthritis: As the most common form of arthritis, this condition occurs when the protective cartilage in joints wears down over time. While both men and women are affected, females are more likely to develop it—especially after age 50. This may be due to a decrease in estrogen, a hormone that helps protect joints, during menopause. Did you know? A recent study projected nearly 1 billion people will be living with osteoarthritis by 2050. Currently, 15% of individuals aged 30 and older experience osteoarthritis.
Fibromyalgia: While not traditionally classified as arthritis, fibromyalgia is a condition that causes widespread pain and fatigue, often mistaken for arthritis. It predominantly affects women and can complicate arthritis diagnosis and treatment.
The Causes Behind Women’s Increased Susceptibility
From hormones to DNA to bone density, there are several reasons why arthritis affects women differently and often more severely than men. Taking the time to explore each of these factors a bit more in depth is worthwhile.
Hormonal factors like estrogen play a significant role in joint health. During menopause, women experience a drop in estrogen levels, which can accelerate the progression of osteoarthritis. Estrogen has anti-inflammatory properties, and its decline may make women more susceptible to joint inflammation.
Genetics and family history play a significant role in arthritis development. Certain genes that predispose individuals to autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis are more common in women. In general, women are more likely to develop autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, both of which can cause joint inflammation. The immune system’s tendency to overreact in these conditions is often more pronounced in women than in men.
Bone structure plays a role as women tend to have smaller bones than men. This may make their joints more vulnerable to wear and tear, especially in conditions like osteoarthritis.
Arthritis can significantly impact a woman’s quality of life. They are more likely to experience higher levels of pain, joint stiffness, and fatigue than men. As a result, women must find ways to deal with unwanted physical limitations. Simple daily tasks, such as getting dressed, cooking, or walking, can become more difficult over time.
Many women with arthritis also face emotional challenges. Chronic pain can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and depression. Balancing the demands of work, family, and personal life while managing a chronic illness can take its toll. For all these reasons, it’s imperative to have the right strategies and support system.
Effective Ways To Manage Arthritis
While arthritis can be challenging, there are ways for women to take control of the condition to ensure it doesn’t take control of them. Even after receiving an official diagnosis, they can still enjoy the type of lifestyle they desire and deserve. A combination of the following lifestyle changes and treatments should be discussed with your trusted healthcare provider.
Physical Activity: Consistently doing low-impact exercises such as swimming, yoga, and walking can help maintain joint function and reduce stiffness. Strength-focused exercises can also help protect joints by building surrounding muscles.
Healthy Diet: Proper nutrition is important. Eating foods that have omega-3 fatty acids as well as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains that are anti-inflammatories, can help manage arthritis symptoms. Maintaining a healthy weight is also crucial to reducing pressure on weight-bearing joints.
Medical Treatment: Medications like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) can help reduce pain and inflammation in arthritis patients. Physical therapy, and in severe cases, surgery, may also be necessary.
Functional Medicine’s Approach To Treating Arthritis
At Omnia Health, our team of professionals focuses on identifying and addressing the underlying causes of inflammation and joint pain rather than simply managing symptoms. This personalized, holistic approach begins with a thorough evaluation of:
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Medical history
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Diet
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Lifestyle
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Environment
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Genetics
By understanding these factors, we are able to create a personalized treatment plan that targets the root causes of arthritis, such as chronic inflammation, immune system dysfunction, or nutrient deficiencies.
Functional medicine also takes gut health into consideration, as imbalances in the gut microbiome can contribute to systemic inflammation and exacerbate arthritis symptoms. Probiotics, prebiotics, and other gut-supporting strategies may be integrated into the treatment plan.
In addition to the previously mentioned modifications, functional medicine often incorporates stress management techniques, such as mindfulness, yoga, or meditation, to reduce stress-related inflammation. Physical activity tailored to the individual’s condition is also encouraged to maintain joint function and reduce stiffness.
By addressing these factors and supporting the body’s natural healing processes, Omnia Health aims to reduce symptoms, improve joint function, and enhance overall quality of life for our patients living with arthritis.
Do you have health concerns related to arthritis or another chronic condition?
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