According to researchers at the CDC in Atlanta, Georgia, data collected in 2023 found that approximately 58.5% of U.S. adults with diagnosed arthritis reported moderate to severe joint pain. Among participants, 26.1% reported severe joint pain, while another 32.4% reported moderate pain. The findings highlight just how common pain can be and why joint pain management deserves our attention.
The data came from the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS), which included approximately 30,000 respondents. The findings were examined in a study published in Arthritis Care & Research.
Current recommendations encourage a multidisciplinary approach to pain. This includes maximizing non-opioid and non-pharmacological therapies when appropriate. Educational, behavioral, and physical approaches may also play a role. These can include physical or occupational therapy, physical activity and exercise, and weight management. Resources such as Healthy People 2030 and the Arthritis-Appropriate, Evidence-Based Interventions provide additional information on improving health and managing arthritis.
What does this mean for your residents? Maybe nothing, but maybe a lot! Do you have residents who have become more sedentary? Are they refusing to participate in activities or perhaps isolating themselves? Maybe these residents are experiencing joint pain!
With any decline in mobility or activity, it may be prudent to review the resident’s most recent MDS Section GG. Is there a documented decline? Talk to the resident and ask about specific points of pain. Hips, knees, and shoulders are common areas. Changes in mobility or participation can provide an opportunity to take a closer look at joint pain management and whether additional evaluation may be appropriate.
Consider having the attending provider evaluate the resident and determine whether a skilled therapy screening is appropriate. Addressing changes early may help prevent pain and functional limitations from progressing. Remember, some residents may not complain about pain because they believe it is simply a “normal” part of aging. That makes observation, conversation, and follow-up especially important.
Stay well and stay informed!
