Arthritis can significantly impact daily life, causing pain and limiting mobility. Fortunately, evidence-based self-care programs are available to help individuals effectively manage their arthritis symptoms and improve their overall well-being. These programs, often referred to as Arthritis-Appropriate, Evidence-Based Interventions (AAEBIs), are recognized for their ability to alleviate pain and enhance physical function.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) supports the Osteoarthritis Action Alliance in evaluating and recognizing these beneficial programs. To earn CDC recognition, programs must meet stringent criteria demonstrating their effectiveness in helping people with arthritis.
Types of Arthritis Self-Care Programs
Currently, CDC-recognized AAEBIs encompass two primary categories of lifestyle management programs, both designed to empower adults in managing their arthritis:
- Physical Activity Programs: These programs focus on safely and comfortably increasing physical activity levels. Engaging in regular physical activity is crucial for individuals with arthritis as it demonstrably improves function, elevates mood, and enhances overall quality of life.
- Self-Management Education Programs: These programs equip participants with essential skills to cope with arthritis symptoms and adopt healthy behaviors. They provide strategies for managing fatigue, stress, and making informed decisions about their health, fostering a proactive approach to arthritis management.
Both types of programs are conveniently accessible in various settings, including community centers, healthcare facilities, and even remotely, ensuring broad reach and convenience for participants.
CDC-Recognized Physical Activity Programs for Arthritis
These programs offer structured and supportive environments to increase physical activity safely:
- AEA Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program
- Active Living Everyday
- Arthritis Foundation Aquatic Program
- Enhance®Fitness
- Fit & Strong!
- Fit & Strong! Plus
- GLA:D®
- My Knee Exercise Program
- Otago Exercise Program
- Stay Active and Independent for Life
- Tai Chi for Arthritis
- Tai Ji Quan: Moving for Better Balance
- Walk With Ease – Self-Directed & Group
- Camine Con Gusto (Spanish version of Walk With Ease)
Participating in these physical activity programs can lead to significant improvements in joint mobility, reduced pain, and increased energy levels, all contributing to a more active and fulfilling life with arthritis.
CDC-Recognized Self-Management Education Programs for Arthritis
These programs provide valuable tools and techniques for managing arthritis symptoms and improving overall well-being:
- Better Choices, Better Health®
- Chronic Disease Self-Management Program
- Tomando Control de su Salud (Spanish version of Chronic Disease Self-Management Program)
- Chronic Pain Self-Management Program
- Enhance®Wellness
- Program to Encourage Active, Rewarding Lives (PEARLS)
- Toolkit for Active Living with Chronic Pain
- Toolkit for Active Living with Chronic Conditions
- Workplace Chronic Disease Self-Management Program
By enrolling in self-management education programs, individuals can gain confidence in their ability to manage their condition, reduce the impact of arthritis on their lives, and improve their mental and emotional well-being.
Taking the First Step Towards Arthritis Self-Care
If you are living with arthritis and seeking effective self-care strategies, exploring these CDC-recognized programs is a great starting point. For more information on these programs and how to enroll, reach out to the Arthritis Foundation Helpline at 1-800-283-7800 or visit their website. Additionally, the Osteoarthritis Action Alliance website offers comprehensive details about AAEBIs and resources for both participants and organizations interested in implementing these programs.
Embracing arthritis self-care programs can empower you to take control of your health, manage your symptoms effectively, and live a more active and rewarding life despite arthritis.
Alt text details for images:
- Image 1 (Tai Chi class):
alt="Group of seniors practicing Tai Chi for arthritis self-care program, improving balance and flexibility."(Original filename: Tai_Chi_class_380px.jpg; Context: Physical activity programs, Tai Chi program mentioned) - Image 2 (Fitness class):
alt="Active seniors participating in CDC recognized fitness class, an arthritis self-care program for mobility and strength."(Original filename: standing_exercise_class_380px.jpg; Context: Physical activity programs, general fitness class example) - Image 3 (Virtual class):
alt="Woman engaging in online arthritis self-management program, accessing remote self-care education resources."(Original filename: virtual_class_380px.jpg; Context: Self-management programs, remote program accessibility)
