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Arthritis is poised to become one of the most pressing health issues in the new decade. Having increased by more than 30 percent in recent years, the condition hits home particularly for farmers, but it could hit text fiends too.

According to early findings by Ohio State University researchers, arthritis is affecting farmers at younger ages than initially predicted. Hoping to slow those numbers down, researchers at Ohio State University Medical Center are reaching out to those at higher risk -- old and young -- to see if proactive measures can help.

 

"We are talking about prevention with farmers, and then we're also talking about management, because there are a number of things one can do to help manage arthritis," said Margaret Teaford, an associate professor in the occupational therapy division of Ohio State's College of Medicine.

Teaford and her team gave educational material and lifestyle tips for farmers at risk for the disease, such as adding more steps and handles to equipment, stretching and exercising.

"We're encouraging the farmers we talk with to add some extra handles on their equipment and put steps on their tractors so that they're not jumping down, helping them avoid extra pressure on their knees," Teaford said.

The tips, materials and ideas provided to these farmers aren't lost on those who've been doing it awhile, like Eric Dresbach of Circleville, Ohio, a third-generation farmer.

But it's not just those who are older who are at risk. In fact, half of all cases of arthritis are now in those under the age of 65 and increasingly involve younger patients overusing a particular hand joint, the carpometacarpal joint, either typing or texting.

"In 25 years, I wouldn't be surprised if we see kids who are doing this constant triggering with their thumbs today develop thumb osteoarthritis prematurely," said Kevin Hackshaw, MD of Ohio State University Medical Center.

By 2030 experts predict 67 million Americans will have arthritis, even more if younger people develop it from overuse of their hands from too much typing or texting.

To prevent problems later in life doctors recommend stretching, exercise and drinking plenty of water. As for typing and texting, they suggest using proper alignment and techniques and taking breaks often to let joints rest.