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Michigan Residents with Arthritis Walk Less Than National Average

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 22, 2013

LANSING - Walking has been shown to improve arthritis pain, fatigue, physical function, strength, balance, and quality-of-life. Walking is also easy on the joints and is the preferred physical activity for adults with arthritis. Despite this, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently released a report showing that more than 50 percent of U.S. adults with arthritis walk less than 90 minutes per week, and in 38 states, more than half did not walk at all.

Among Michigan adults with arthritis, 66 percent walked less than 90 minutes per week including 52 percent that did not walk at all, even higher than the national averages. There is some good news, though. More than one in five Michigan adults with arthritis met physical activity recommendations by walking 150 or more minutes per week. In an effort to help reduce arthritis pain among Michigan residents, the Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) is encouraging residents with arthritis to walk more.

"Based on federal guidelines, it's recommended that adults walk for 30 minutes per day, at least five days a week," said Dr. Matthew Davis, Chief Medical Executive at the MDCH. "That said, it's important for people with arthritis to know that you don't have to do all 30 minutes at once. You can break it up into 10 minute sessions and spread them throughout the day."

The MDCH Arthritis Program supports programs in Michigan communities aimed at increasing physical activity, especially for people with arthritis. Research shows the following three programs help people with arthritis lead more active lives with less pain:

  • Enhance®Fitness is a group exercise program that helps older adults at all levels of fitness become more active, energized and able to maintain their independence.
  • The Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program is a community-based recreational exercise program and includes range-of-motion and endurance-building activities as well as relaxation techniques and health education topics.
  • Walk With Ease is a community-based walking program offered as a traditional group program or through a self-directed option where people can work through the Walk With Ease book at their own pace.

To find a local program in your community, or to learn more about the programs supported by the Michigan Arthritis Program, visit www.michigan.gov/arthritis.

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