Methods: The 2023 BRFSS arthritis module, administered in seven states, was analyzed among working individuals diagnosed with arthritis. Provider advice to exercise was examined as a predictor of self-reported arthritis-related work limitations, using weighted descriptive and population-level statistics. Multinomial logistic regression assessed associations between receiving exercise advice and work impact from arthritis, controlling for relevant covariates.

Results: Among 7,032 participants diagnosed with arthritis, 27.1% reported arthritis having an impact on their work, while 72.9% respondents denied arthritis having an effect on their work. Of those who reported arthritis impacting work, the majority were female (55.2%), white non-Hispanic race (84.7%), reported none to mild joint pain (58.9%), and had a doctor suggesting exercise for their arthritis (59.9%). Healthcare provider advice was significantly associated with reporting that working with arthritis impacts work, after controlling for sociodemographic variables, joint pain severity, smoking status and alcohol consumption (aOR= 2.06;95%CI [1.59-2.68]).

Conclusion: Provider advice to exercise was positively associated with self-reported work impact due to arthritis, underscoring the role of patient-provider interactions in managing chronic conditions. Given that approximately one-fourth of U.S. adults with arthritis experience work limitations, further research evaluating workplace accommodations and patient self-efficacy can inform workplace interventions.