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The Impact of Living with Joint Pain

At GOPO® Joint Health, we commissioned a survey to better understand the real-life challenges of living with joint pain. Our research, involving 2,001 joint pain sufferers, sheds light on the significant impact chronic pain has on daily life, mental health and overall well-being.

Daily Pain: 44% of participants experience joint pain daily. More than one-third (34%) struggle with basic tasks, such as carrying bags (45%) and climbing stairs (41%). Mental and Emotional Impact: 43% report anxiety or depression due to their pain, with 20% saying joint pain negatively impacts their relationships. Work and Social Life: 32% see a decline in social interactions and 29% face challenges at work. Additionally, 18% have been forced to change jobs or retire early due to their pain. Treatment Preferences: While 53% use over-the-counter or prescribed medication, 56% of sufferers would prefer managing their joint pain through lifestyle changes and alternative treatments, such as supplements and exercise.

Key Findings


Daily Pain: 44% of participants experience joint pain daily. More than one-third (34%) struggle with basic tasks, such as carrying bags (45%) and climbing stairs (41%).

Mental and Emotional Impact: 43% report anxiety or depression due to their pain, with 20% saying joint pain negatively impacts their relationships.

Work and Social Life: 32% see a decline in social interactions and 29% face challenges at work. Additionally, 18% have been forced to change jobs or retire early due to their pain.

Treatment Preferences: While 53% use over-the-counter or prescribed medication, 56% of sufferers would prefer managing their joint pain through lifestyle changes and alternative treatments, such as supplements and exercise.

Implications for Healthcare Professionals


The survey reveals that chronic joint pain is not just a physical issue but one that affects every aspect of a patient’s life, including their mental health, social interactions and professional life. Given this complexity, healthcare professionals should consider a multi-dimensional approach to treatment. Here are several implications for practice:
 

  1. Personalised and Holistic Treatment Plans
    Many patients with joint pain surveyed express a desire to move away from relying solely on medication. A holistic approach to treatment, which combines pharmacological interventions with lifestyle changes, exercise, dietary adjustments, and clinically backed supplements, is essential. Healthcare professionals should be proactive in discussing these alternatives with patients and tailoring treatments to meet their individual needs.
     
  2. Addressing Mental Health Concerns
    Joint pain often leads to anxiety, depression and social withdrawal. A comprehensive treatment plan should address not only the physical symptoms but also the emotional burden of joint pain. Healthcare professionals should screen for mental health concerns and provide appropriate support, such as referrals to psychological services, coping strategies and mindfulness-based interventions, to help patients manage their condition on a mental and emotional level.
     
  3. Supporting Self-Management
    The growing pressure on healthcare systems means that patients must be empowered to manage their pain independently, where possible. Encouraging self-management techniques, such as incorporating regular movement, dietary changes and non-medical therapies, can significantly improve patient outcomes. Healthcare providers should educate patients on how to integrate these strategies into their daily lives and promote long-term health benefits, reducing the need for frequent clinical interventions.
     
  4. Taking Social and Financial Factors into Account
    Joint pain can severely affect patients’ ability to work, maintain relationships and manage finances. Healthcare professionals should consider these broader challenges and offer guidance on workplace adjustments, support for financial hardship and strategies to maintain social engagement. This holistic approach can alleviate some of the wider effects of chronic joint pain, helping patients lead more fulfilling lives despite their condition.

 

[i] Schwager J, Richard N, Wolfram S. Anti-inflammatory and chondro-protective effects of rosehip powder and its constituent galactolipids GOPO Poster presentation at the World Congress of Osteoarthritis (OARSI) 2008

 

 

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