Osteoarthritis is a common form of arthritis that occurs when the protective cartilage of the bones wears down over time. Osteoarthritis can damage any joint but primarily affects the knees, hands, spine, and hips. Doctors can manage symptoms of osteoarthritis among patients, but once the damage to the bones is done, it is irreversible. Managing osteoarthritis demands access to experts, affordable medical care, a good climate, and the chance to engage in healthy lifestyle habits.
Read more to learn about the six worst cities to live in when you have arthritis:
1. Charleston, West Virginia
One in every three West Virginian adults has arthritis (38.9%). This figure ranks as the highest in the country. One of the risk factors for arthritis is obesity, or being overweight and engaging in other unhealthy habits such as smoking. The prevalence of obesity in Charleston explains why the cases of arthritis are high. Few people engage in physical activity in Charleston, WV. Access to health care is low because of the extensive number of non-insured people. Approximately 14.7% of West Virginia adults cannot afford healthcare.
2. Atlanta, Georgia
The number one cause of disability in Atlanta, Georgia, is arthritis. The common type of arthritis among the residents is osteoarthritis, a degenerative condition. Atlanta, GA, has one of the best healthcare systems in the country but is more expensive than other parts. According to doctors in the city, the common causes of osteoarthritis are excessive strain since most people are working class, overweight, injuries, and joint diseases. The lifestyle in Atlanta is poor, with little or no exercise programs and poor eating habits. Move out of Atlanta if you are to beat the challenges associated with developing arthritis.
3. Dover, Delaware
Arthritis is on the rise in Dover city because of the increased consumption of alcohol, smoking cigarettes, obesity, and lack of physical activity. Research shows that the city is overwhelmed by the increasing older population. The increased chances of developing arthritis in Dover, Delaware, and the suppressed healthcare system as the aging population rises, make the city the wrong place to be when you start exhibiting arthritis symptoms.
4. Memphis, Tennessee
Despite Memphis being the center for healthcare in Tennessee, 18% of Memphians are not insured. Access to healthcare in Memphis is difficult, and this makes it challenging for all patients with osteoarthritis. Furthermore, the city has limited options for a healthy lifestyle and poor medical care for advanced illnesses. If you exhibit any symptoms of osteoarthritis, you should consider moving out of Memphis because it will make your situation worse. The city is experiencing a health care crisis for the middle class and the poor.
5. Springfield, Massachusetts
You are advised not to live in Springfield, Massachusetts, when you have symptoms of arthritis because of the weather patterns. The city is constantly experiencing high and low temperatures, barometric pressure, and high humidity. The drastic weather changes may cause arthritis patients to suffer increased pain.
6. Mobile, Alabama
Mobile, Alabama, is seeing an increasing number of arthritis patients. These patients will have a challenge in the future since the Arthritis Foundation is already suffering and working towards addressing the shortage of arthritis specialists. If you live in the city, you will need to move to a different city where you will receive better healthcare.
