The Worst U.S. States for Arthritis Patients
Arthritis is a health condition that causes joint pain, stiffness, inflammation, and other problems that can be highly aggravating. Arthritis has a link to climate and hence some cities are not so good for arthritis patients. The article lists some of the worst US cities for arthritis.
Why are some places bad for arthritis?
Some places in the country are particularly unfavourable for arthritis. This may include a few cities in a state or the entire state itself. There are many factors responsible for it and they include:
1. Weather
Harsh weather conditions can have a direct impact on arthritis. It is not about the cold weather or rain, but it actually has to do with barometric pressure in a place. Reduction in barometric pressure can cause tissues in the body to expand. This can cause pain and aggravation of arthritis symptoms.
2. Healthcare systems
Some states have an excellent healthcare system. This includes good medical facilities for treatment. The number of specialists who can treat arthritis is also important while deciding if a city is good for arthritis patients or not. The affordability of treatment and the availability of health insurance are other factors that determine if a state is bad for arthritis patients or not.
3. Increased case count
An increased number of cases of arthritis in a particular state as compared to others is a clear indicator that the state is not a good one for arthritis patients to stay. The increased cases could be because of poor weather, lack of proper medical facilities, or lack of treatment affordability.
Following are the worst US cities for arthritis patients
1. Oklahoma
The worst US cities for arthritis can be found in the state of Oklahoma. A report from the American College of Rheumatology gives the state a ‘D’ grade, making it one of the worst states to live if you have arthritis. The summers are humid and the weather condition can affect your skin.
The fewer number of qualified rheumatologists and the costs involved in treatment all contribute to making this state one of the worst for arthritis sufferers.
2. Alabama
Alabama is in the bottom two when it comes to states that are bad for arthritis patients. It has a grade of C for access to healthcare facilities. For affordability, it rates a very poor F. This is one of the key factors making the cities of Alabama bad for arthritis patients.
The overall grade is D, and it has a score of 35/150 that makes the state bad for arthritis sufferers.
3. Louisiana
Louisiana has humid weather, which worsens during the summer. The high rainfall in the city and the storms make the city one that has low barometric pressure. This makes it bad for arthritis.
4. Mississippi
The state and its cities are known for their severe humidity. The weather can be described as damp. In addition to this, the poor access to proper health facilities makes the cities in the state unfavourable for arthritis.
The worst US cities for arthritis are found in states with weather conditions that lead to drop in barometric pressure. If the states do not have a good healthcare system in place, it can lead to increased case count, making the city not suitable for arthritis sufferers.