May is National Arthritis Month
Raising Awareness About Arthritis
Arthritis is the #1 cause of disability in the United States. Every May during Arthritis Awareness Month, the Arthritis Foundation calls extra attention to this painful and debilitating condition that affects nearly 60 million men, women, and children in the U.S.
- Contrary to the common misconception, it’s not just an “old person’s” disease. About two-thirds of those living with arthritis are aged 65 and under.
- There are more than 100 types of arthritis and related rheumatic diseases.
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that can affect the many tissues of the joint. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it is the most common form of arthritis, affecting more than 32.5 million adults in the United States. Historically, osteoarthritis (OA) was known as a “wear and tear” condition, generally associated with aging. We now know that it is a disease of the entire joint, including bone, cartilage, ligaments, fat, and the tissues lining the joint (the synovium).
Osteoarthritis can degrade cartilage, change bone shape & cause inflammation, resulting in pain, stiffness,s and loss of mobility.
A good exercise program to fight Osteoarthritis pain and stiffness has 4 parts:
Strengthening exercises to build muscles around painful joints to help ease the stress on them.
Range of motion/stretching helps reduce stiffness and keeps joints moving.
Aerobic / cardio exercises help improve stamina and energy levels and reduce excess weight.
Balance exercises help strengthen small muscles in around the ankles and knees to prevent falls.
RCCA Spring Luncheon
“Blossoming Together: Celebrating Spring with the Grace of Butterflies”
RCCA supporters celebrated Spring at the 32nd Annual Spring Luncheon at The Beach Club in Palm Beach on April 30th.
Over $100,000 was raised for the RCCA Preschool Program.
Co-Chair Elizabeth Cooney Reyes, MD and Chair Micaela Hunt-Roberts
Guest speaker Edward H. Davidson, MD
Photos by Capehart Photography
Preschoolers’ Field Trip to Pan’s Garden
Watch the preschool video!
