By Michael Reyes, M.D.
Orthopedic Surgeon affiliated with Seton Medical Center

Do your knees hurt going up and down stairs? Is it becoming harder to get out of bed or get up from a chair because of joint pain? If your answer is "yes," then you may be one of almost 70 million Americans afflicted with arthritis. That's one in every three of us who experience painful, swollen, and stiff joints. For some with severe arthritis, these symptoms may become debilitating, some even requiring surgery.

According to the Center for Disease Control, the number of Americans over the age of 65 who suffer from arthritis is expected to double by the year 2030. It is now believed that this "arthritis epidemic" is poised to strike the baby boomers and become the new "face" of those suffering with arthritis.

Unlike other generations, boomers are more athletic, more active, and unfortunately, also heavier. However, joints in our bodies like hips and knees are neither as limber nor the cartilage as resilient. Over time, this high impact, repetitive jarring of these joints cause wear and tear, and inevitably, osteoarthritis. Thus, you may be causing harm by exercising only on the weekends and/or by carrying extra weight. If the early stages of arthritis have already begun, you can start by taking over-the-counter supplements, such as glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate. These supplements are the building blocks of cartilage and can help lessen pain and stiffness. Gel injections, comprised of hyaluronic acid, can be administered in the knee, decreasing pain, and may even help maintain healthy cartilage, thereby slowing the progression of arthritis.

If surgery is needed, Seton's Orthopedic Department offers state-of-the-art technology including minimally invasive surgery, which makes joint replacements safer, and recovery quicker and less painful. Also utilized at Seton are new materials that are more durable than ever, allowing your artificial joint to last up to 30 years, instead of the usual 12 to 15 years.

The arthritis epidemic is coming. If you're between the ages of 41 and 60, a "weekend warrior," overweight, or starting to develop painful joints, you are at risk for progressive arthritic conditions. I hope you will be proactive in fighting this condition.