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<\/figure>\n\n\n\n\u201cDuring the coronavirus pandemic, we understand that older individuals and people with autoimmune diseases, like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, may be more likely to get seriously sick if they do become infected with the virus, so it is important to take appropriate precautions\u201d stated Pettit. \u201cIt is important that healthy individuals continue taking their medications as prescribed by their physician and to practice social distancing, wearing a face mask or cloth face shield, and to wash hands frequently for 20 seconds.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Engaging in physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight can help manage arthritis symptoms. Physical activity can reduce arthritis pain, improve function and mood, and delay the onset of disability. All adults should get 2 hours and 30 minutes (150 minutes) of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, such as brisk walking, per week and do muscle-strengthening activities two or more days a week. You can achieve these goals by taking brisk walks for 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week. You can also break it up into 10 minute sessions and spread it out during the day\u2014walk the dog 10 minutes in the morning, take a 10 minute walk to the post office, coffee shop, or grocery store in the afternoon, and then take a 10 minute walk after dinner.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Make sure to talk to your doctor about new or worsening arthritis symptoms. You may be referred to a doctor who specializes in arthritis and related conditions such as a rheumatologist or orthopedist. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
For information about Health Department services contact: \uf0b7 <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Genesee County Health Department at: 344-2580 ext. 5555 or visit their website at www.co.genesee.ny.us\/departments\/health\/index.html. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Visit Facebook at: Genesee & Orleans County Health Departments and Twitter: @GoHealthNY. \uf0b7 <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Orleans County Health Department at: 589-3278 or check out our website at: https:\/\/orleanscountyny.com\/departments\/publichealth\/. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Visit Facebook at: Genesee & Orleans County Health Departments and Twitter: @GoHealthNY. \uf0b7 <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Wyoming County Health Department at: 786-8890 or visit their web site at www.wyomingco.net\/health\/main.html. Visit Facebook at: Wyoming County Health Department.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Public Health Column Arthritis is one of the most widespread health conditions in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly one in every four adults live with the pain of arthritis.1 To recognize this toll on Americans\u2019 health, the CDC and the Arthritis Foundation \u2026<\/p>\n