Arthritis Foundation Washington/Alaska Chapter: Thousands Expected to Team Up for Coast-to-Coast Arthritis Walks

ATLANTA, April 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Thousands of people across the country will team up with friends, family members and co-workers to help raise awareness and funds to fight arthritis, a chronic and often debilitating condition. With the rate of arthritis among Americans increasing dramatically, the disease is now the nation's leading cause of disability.

Arthritis and chronic joint symptoms affect 66 million adults and 300,000 children, and cost the U.S. $86.2 billion annually.

Arthritis strikes people of all ages, including children. It affects the way people live, the things they enjoy and their emotional and social interactions with family and friends. For the one in three Americans with arthritis, the pain and inflammation associated with this chronic condition can limit everyday activities such as walking, dressing and even bathing.

"The Arthritis Foundation is here to help people with arthritis take a more active role in managing their disease. Participating in the Arthritis Walk can be a first step toward the kind of healthy lifestyle that may help prevent or control arthritis," said John H. Klippel, M.D., president and CEO of the Arthritis Foundation. "Walking can reduce joint pain and stiffness, build muscles around the joints and increase flexibility and endurance." (more)