Arthritis Myths & Facts: What You Need to Know About Joint Health

Let's get real, most of us don't begin to think about joint health until our knees begin to make weird sounds. But learning about arthritis and the value of joint care before it gets creaky is like putting money into a savings plan early, it pays dividends down the line.

Arthritis is not a one-size-fits-all diagnosis. There are more than 100 forms of arthritis, and each has a different cause, symptom, and course. The most prevalent are osteoarthritis (most often due to wear and tear) and rheumatoid arthritis (an autoimmune disease). But what most people overlook is that arthritis can creep up on anyone, not just your knitting, daytime soap-watching grandma.

The stakes are high. Arthritis is a leading cause of disability globally, and it's not just joints it impacts; it can restrict mobility, mental well-being, sleep, and even working or socialising. When folks confuse initial warning signs as "just getting older" or "normal soreness," they typically wait to obtain the treatment that they require. And waiting? It can contribute to joint destruction that is permanent and significantly more difficult to treat down the line.

So absolutely, learning about joint health is a real-life skill. The more you learn, the healthier you'll be able to keep your joints. In this blog, we help you debunk arthritis myths and tell you about facts that can help you live a life that’s limp-free.

Debunking common arthritis misconceptions and myths

Myth 1: Arthritis only affects the elderly

Fact: Arthritis affects all ages, and although it is more common in older adults, some types are found in children and teens, such as juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Also, adults can go on to develop many types of arthritis in their 20s and 30s.

Myth 2: Cracking knuckles causes arthritis

Fact: Cracking knuckles can cause a pop or crack in the joint, which is caused by gas bubbles bursting in the liquid of the joint. Unlike some beliefs, cracking your knuckles has no current evidence base that it causes or worsens arthritis.

Myth 3: All joint pain is arthritis

Fact: Although arthritis is a prevalent joint pain diagnosis, joint pain can result from tendonitis, bursitis, or injury to the joint. Just because a joint is painful does not mean it has arthritis. However, if you suspect arthritis, it’s best to consult a medical professional for an accurate analysis and treatment plan. 

Myth 4: Exercise worsens arthritis

Fact: The belief that exercise is not recommended for arthritis is false. In fact, low-impact, regular exercise can relieve arthritic symptoms. Walking, swimming, and yoga can all help maintain joint flexibility, strengthen muscles, and reduce stiffness. Running and jumping on hard surfaces like concrete roads can cause joint injury and arthritis.

Myth 5: Arthritis is inevitable with ageing

Fact: While ageing is a risk factor, arthritis isn't an unavoidable part of growing older. Lifestyle choices, such as maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, maintaining good muscle mass, and protecting one’s joints from injury, play a significant role in preventing arthritis.

Facts about arthritis you should know

• Prevalence: Arthritis impacts millions of people worldwide, placing it among the leading causes of disability.

• Types: More than 100 types of arthritis exist, with distinct causes and treatment options for each population.

• Symptoms: Typical symptoms of arthritis present as pain in the joints, stiffness, swelling, and reduced ability to move.

• Risk factors: Genetic history, age, being overweight or obese, previous injury to the joint, and certain occupations may increase the risk of some types of arthritis.

• Management: Although there is no cure, treatments, including physical therapy and lifestyle modifications, have been effective in improving symptoms.

Did You Know? 

Arthritis is one of the leading causes of disability.

Arthritis prevention and joint health tips

Stay active

Participate in consistent, low-impact activities to help maintain strength and flexibility in your joints. It is good to walk, swim, and cycle. 

Maintain a healthy weight 

Losing excess weight may help get rid of pressure on the joints, particularly in weight-bearing joints, such as the knees and hips.

Protect your joints

You might want to practise proper body movements during all of your activities to help reduce your risk of joint injury, including proper lifting techniques for heavy or awkward objects during any kind of activity and ergonomics in tool usage.

Balanced diet

You can eat an anti-inflammatory diet that is high in fruits and vegetables and omega-3 fatty acids. These elements have been shown to decrease inflammation in joints.

Regular check-ups 

Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent additional joint damage. Regular medical visits are important, especially with persistent joint pain.

Additional insights into arthritis and joint health

The role of hydration

Water makes up a large portion of joint cartilage, which is necessary to preserve its lubrication and suppleness. Staying well-hydrated ensures that the cartilage in your joints remains lubricated and functions optimally.

Impact of smoking and alcohol

Smoking reduces blood flow to the joints, while excessive alcohol consumption can increase inflammation. Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol can significantly benefit your joint health.

Managing stress

Chronic stress can exacerbate arthritis symptoms and lead to flare-ups. Practise stress-reducing techniques such as yoga, meditation, deep breathing exercises, and spending time in nature.

Importance of sleep

Quality sleep is vital for overall health, including joint health. Poor sleep can increase the perception of pain and may lead to increased inflammation.

Ergonomic adjustments

If you spend long hours at your desk, setting up your workspace ergonomically can prevent strain and pain on already sore joints. Use chairs with good lumbar support, and position your computer monitor at eye level.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can a poor diet lead to arthritis?

Yes, a poor diet can leave you lacking proteins, essential fats, vitamins, and antioxidants, that can accelerate joint ageing and can cause arthritis.

Q2: Is arthritis genetic?

Genetics can play a role in arthritis development, but so can environmental factors and lifestyle choices.

Q3: Are there many forms of arthritis?

Yes! There are more than 100 forms of arthritis. Some of the more common types include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis, each with its own characteristics.

Q4: Is there a cure for arthritis?

Different types of arthritis have different treatment options. Some are curable and some can be controlled and slowed down. The aim behind curing arthritis is to prevent permanent joint damage or at least slow down the progression.

Q5: Does the weather impact arthritic symptoms?

There are anecdotes from individuals who report that pain increases with weather changes, but the science on this is not definitive.

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