May is Arthritis Month

COLUMBIA, Mo.- May is National Arthritis Month and farm families should be aware that they are particularly vulnerable to the disease and that help is available, said a University of Missouri rural health and safety specialist.
A study by MU Extension indicated that almost one-third of Missouri farmers interviewed said they were unable to do some work-related activities due to arthritis.
The MU AgrAbility program assists Missouri farm families when a family member experiences a disease, disability or disorder.
To address the specialized needs of farmers with disabilities, specialists make on-site farm visits to offer ideas on how to modify buildings or farm equipment. They can suggest ways to restructure work to maximize productivity and conduct educational workshops for families, said program director Karen Funkenbusch.
There are more than 100 forms of arthritis and related diseases. Common forms include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia, she said.
"Given the nature of farm work - constant bending, twisting and lifting - farm workers should keep in mind physical limitations imposed on them if they are affected by arthritis or chronic joint symptoms," she said.
"Reduced mobility and reaction time may prevent an operator from responding to a dangerous situation in a way that prevents injuries," she said. "Reduced endurance may put arthritis-affected farmers at risk as they push their limits.
"Unlike most workers, aging farmers continue to farm, sometimes well into their 70s, making them more likely to be affected by arthritis," she said.
The federally funded AgrAbility program, started in 1994, is a partnership of MU Biological and Agricultural Engineering Extension, Columbia-based Services for Independent Living, St. Joseph-based Midland Empire Resources for Independent Living and the Missouri Division of Vocational Rehabilitation.
To learn more about this program, visit the Web site http://agrability.missouri.edu/ or call 800-955-8503.