A growing number of Americans are experiencing joint pain, according to latest research findings. In 2002, 10.5 million Americans suffered from severe joint pain, by 2014 this number has jumped to14.6 million, according to the CDC.
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The CDC defines severe joint pain as rated as a seven or more on a scale of one to 10 on a questionnaire used in the study.
Researchers suggest the problem may even become worse as the years go on, since much of this joint pain is associated with arthritis. One in every four people reported their joint pain as severe and researchers suggest arthritis rates will increase, too.
The CDC suggests that taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatories may help relieve joint pain to some degree, but prescription medications are not recommended. The researchers said, “There is insufficient evidence for and serious risks associated with long-term use of opioid therapy to treat chronic pain.”
Other remedies to aid in joint pain include low-impact activity and even cognitive behavioral therapy.
The findings were published in Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.
Emily Lunardo studied medical sociology at York University with a strong focus on the social determinants of health and mental illness. She is a registered Zumba instructor, as well as a Canfit Pro trainer, who teaches fitness classes on a weekly basis. Emily practices healthy habits in her own life as well as helps others with their own personal health goals. Emily joined Bel Marra Health as a health writer in 2013.
