Arthritis is one of America’s most serious health problems and a leading cause of disability, affecting nearly 50 million U.S. adults. Arthritis is an inflammation of a joint, often accompanied by pain, swelling and stiffness. Although the term is well known, there are several common misconceptions about the disease. Here are seven things you need to know about arthritis.
Myth: Arthritis is just one disease.
Fact: There are over 100 different types of arthritis, but it generally refers to inflammation of one or more joints, which causes pain, swelling, stiffness and limited movement. The most common forms of arthritis are rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and fibromyalgia.
Myth: Arthritis affects only the elderly.
Fact: Arthritis is the most common chronic condition among people 15 and older. Baby boomers are currently at prime risk for developing arthritis, since over half of those diagnosed are under 65 years old. It’s not uncommon for many types of arthritis to begin during a woman’s childbearing years. Additionally, arthritis affects nearly 300,000 children.
Myth: Arthritis affects women and men equally.
Fact: Women are more affected by arthritis than men. Specifically, women are much more likely to be diagnosed with fibromyalgia, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Myth: Arthritis can be cured.
Fact: Arthritis can be treated, but it is a chronic disease with no known cure. Treatment options can include lifestyle changes, medicine, surgery, education programs, alternative therapies and support groups. Proper management of arthritis can help people with the disease live healthy and productive lives.
Myth: Cracking your knuckles will cause arthritis.
Fact: There is no evidence that cracking knuckles causes arthritis – it’s an old wives’ tale. When you crack your knuckles, a bit of excess nitrogen gas that was dissolved in your blood makes a popping noise. Most doctors agree that it’s a relatively harmless habit.
Myth: Arthritis is caused by a poor diet.
Fact: There is no proven connection between food and arthritis. One exception is gouty arthritis, which is caused by an excess of uric acid. Foods that cause the condition include beer, sardines and organ meat. Food allergies can sometimes aggravate arthritis, but they do not cause it. Even though there is no link between diet and arthritis, it’s important to have a well-balanced and nutritious diet since extra weight has been known to add stress to arthritic joints.
Myth: People with arthritis are very limited in the activities they can do.
Fact: Even though arthritis involves pain and stiffness, there are many ways to manage the disease. Each person experiences arthritis differently, and there is no single strategy that will work for everyone. Setting realistic goals and actively working towards them can help drastically. Try keeping a health journal to track the details of your treatment plan, and communicate frequently with healthcare professionals to figure out what’s best for you. They key is to be active in your own self-care.
