Many people believe that only elderly individuals can have arthritis. This is simply not the case. Myths like this can prevent people from discovering they have the disease. It can also stop people from getting the right treatment and help. This article will debunk some of the most common untrue beliefs about arthritis.
Arthritis is Simply Minor Joint Pain
Arthritis pain can be more agonising than many people realise. It can disturb almost every aspect of a person’s life. This isn’t always simply joint pain either. There are over 100 types of arthritis altogether. Some of these are joint diseases like osteoarthritis. Others include immune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis which is systemic in nature. It can affect other organs like the eyes, lungs, heart and skin.
Exercise Will Make Arthritis Worse
This is a dangerous misconception. Someone with arthritis may stop being physically active if they believe this myth. Workouts which are done regularly can be useful for those with arthritis. Walking, swimming and other activities can actually be very beneficial. Exercises like these can improve the mobility of joints and reduce joint stiffness. Physical movements can lessen pain and boost functions. Exercises should be chosen that don’t put too much pressure on the joints. Those with the disease should talk to their doctor before pursuing a new exercise.
All Types of Arthritis Are the Same
As we covered earlier, there are over 100 types of arthritis altogether. It isn’t one single disease. Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid are two of the most common forms. Other types include gout and lupus. In the UK alone rheumatoid arthritis affects approximately 400,000 people. Each one has a different treatment plan and cause. Getting the right diagnosis can allow someone with arthritis to find the best course of action for them.
Arthritis Can’t Be Treated
Arthritis doesn’t have a cure, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be managed properly. Medical research has led to the discovery of treatments. These can slow the progression of the disease and help control symptoms. Physical therapy can also improve quality of life. In some cases, surgery may be helpful. Lifestyle changes can make a difference too. Early diagnosis and suitable treatment can help prevent long-term damage and maintain mobility.
Changing Your Diet
Certain dietary changes can sometimes minimise inflammation and improve symptoms. Reducing processed foods and sugars and increasing anti-inflammatory foods can sometimes make a difference. However, many people think a diet can solely cure their disease. This is a myth. No diet can cure arthritis! Nutrition can play an important role in managing the condition, but it needs to be combined with medical treatment. Patients need to be careful of ‘miracle diets.’ These will not work. Unproven supplements that promise the cure to their disease are also something people should be cautious of.
Only Elderly People Have Arthritis
Although this isn’t the full truth, there is some truth in it. Osteoarthritis tends to affect older adults much more than other ages. In many cases, this is because of the joints wearing over a long period of time. A lot of people don’t realise that you can have arthritis at any age. Children and babies can have the disease. In the UK, around 12,000 youths and children have juvenile arthritis.
Cold and Damp Weather
Studies haven’t consistently proven that weather can worsen arthritis. So why do people with the disease report feeling more pain during cold or damp weather? Temperature changes, barometric pressure and humidity can all potentially influence how pain is perceived. Pain increase in cold weather could be linked to stiffening muscles around the joints.
With National Arthritis Week taking place, people need to understand the facts and debunk myths. Millions of people globally have arthritis. It’s a complex condition which needs proper management and the correct approach. With the right facts, people can get the help they need and maintain a high quality of life.
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