A good arthritis support group can be a great help to people suffering from the condition.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, citing data from the National Health Interview Survey, there are 52.5 million people in the U.S. who have been diagnosed with arthritis by a physician. But although arthritis is common, it is also common for people who have the disease to feel alone in their suffering.

Pain and stiffness in the joints that make even the most routine tasks difficult may leave people feeling helpless and with nowhere to turn. But there are many local support groups in your area comprised of people with a variety of arthritis symptoms who are in different stages of disease progression.

The people who participate in arthritis support groups are there to offer encouraging words and advice to help others manage their condition and overcome their challenges.

The value of an arthritis support group

Often, people with an arthritic condition only consult with a doctor to talk about how they feel both physically and mentally as a result of living with this disease. However, Everyday Health writes that seeking a much higher level of support, both socially and emotionally, can be a great help.

"Many studies now show that emotional and social support improve [rheumatoid arthritis] prognosis," Adena Batterman, manager of RA support at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City, tells Everyday Health. "Rheumatoid arthritis can be an isolating condition if you aren't careful. The keys to avoiding isolation, low self-esteem, and depression are education and support."

RA support groups are just one example. There are support groups for people with the many other different kinds of arthritis too.

If you feel that a support group would benefit you, you're probably right. The Rheumatoid Arthritis Warrior website points out that associating with those who have the same condition as you can be a great source of emotional strength.

Everyday Health lists the variety of support groups that one can join. There are some geared toward patient education, while others simply provide a forum for people to verbally express how they feel and the challenges they face when living with arthritis. While it's important to always stay in communication with your doctor, joining a support group may also be helpful and therapeutic.

For more on support for arthritis:

Arthritis: Pick Your Support System Carefully
5 Things You Need to Know about Support for Arthritis
Communicating Concern and Support for Loved Ones in Pain