MAYVILLE – The Chautauqua County Department of Health and Human Services are hosting a Walk With Ease program to help individuals with arthritis or other chronic conditions to move more and feel better.
Many believe that arthritis is just part of the natural process of getting older however, Healthy Communities Consultant for the Chautauqua County DHHS Lisa Schmidtfrerick-Miller, says that’s not always the case.
“Arthritis is more common among older adults, but working-age adults are also afflicted,” said Miller.
Arthritis is a chronic disease that causes pain and discomfort of the joints. Often people who suffer from Arthritis, have a difficult time engaging in physical activity for the fear of increased pain, or pain an general, and a lack of understanding of safe forms of physical activity. The condition is the leading disability in the New York State, effecting 1 and 3 and households, and 24% of adults in Chautauqua County were diagnosed with Arthritis in 2014.
Any physical activity that has little risk of injury or stress on the joints, is a proven strategy for regulating arthritis symptoms in adults, and can help reduce pain by upwards of 40%. Even as much as simple daily activities like walking, biking, and swimming, can get your heart rate up, and help delay the onset of arthritis and help relive pain and other symptoms.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends Arthritis patents to take part in programs such as Walk With Ease, which use pear-reviewed research on physical activity and self-management to help improve mobility and balance, while reducing the risk of falling. increased fatigue, anxiety and depression.
“Most people who stick with a program of regular physical activity begin to feel better within four to six weeks,” said Christine Schuyler, the Director of Chautauqua County DHHS. “It’s not easy, especially when your joints hurt or you haven’t been active for a while, but the sooner you start, the sooner you will feel better.”
Classes are offered for up to six weeks at no charge in various locations around the county. For more information on upcoming classes, contact the Chautauqua County DHHS at (716) 753-4795.
