June 2016 Focus of the Month

 

Arthritis

Text Box: Arthritis

Arthritis refers to more than 100 types of joint diseases that affect 1 in 5 adults and 1 in 250 children. Arthritis can start in many ways, and can be difficult to recognize. It can come on slowly and be mild, or it can start suddenly and cause intense pain that surges within a few hours. The signs and symptoms can come and go over time. It might cause the classic issues of joint pain, swelling and stiffness, or it may first cause health problems that seem unrelated, like fatigue or a rash. Early signs of arthritis might be mistaken for an injury or the result of “too much” activity.

Watch for these potential signs and symptoms of arthritis:

·    Pain, swelling, or stiffness in one or more joints

·    Joints that are red or warm to the touch

·    Joint tenderness or stiffness

·    Difficulty moving a joint or doing daily activities

Make an appointment with your doctor if you have any of the following:

·   Joint symptoms that last three days or more

·   Several episodes of joint symptoms within a month

People with arthritis often claim they can predict the weather, based on their joint pain level, and with good reason. Studies show a variety of weather factors can increase pain. A study from Tufts University in 2007 found that every 10-degree drop in temperature corresponded with an incremental increase in arthritis pain. In addition, relatively low barometric pressure, low temperatures and precipitation can increase pain. Researchers aren’t sure why this happens. They suspect certain atmospheric conditions increase swelling in the joint capsule.

For more information, visit:  www.arthritis.org

 

Summer Fitness Fun Challenge (June 20 - August 20, 2016)

Text Box: Summer Fitness Fun Challenge (June 20 - August 20, 2016)   

Swim - Bike - Hike - Run - Walk - Kayak Tennis - Baseball - Surf - Skate - Garden - Golf Yoga - Soccer - Frisbee - Dance & More!

It’s simple and there is no need to register.

 

Text Box:   Just take photos during your fitness activity and post it to one of the following social media sites along with the hashtag #makewalkingeasy

FACEBOOK: Make Healthy Choices Easy

TWITTER: @makehealthyeasy

INSTAGRAM: @makehealthyeasy

Email: jmthomas@wmhs.com           

Great prizes will be awarded by random drawing at the end of the challenge.

Call WMHS Community Health & Wellness at 240-964-8417 with any questions.