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The health condition, arthritis, is characterized by the inflammation and tenderness of one or more of your joints. Some of the symptoms of arthritis include pain, swelling, and stiffness around your joints, which often worsen with age. Unfortunately, there is a lot of misinformation and assumptions made about arthritis that are incorrect. We’re here to set the record straight and tell you the truth behind the most common myths surrounding arthritis.

Myth: Only older adults get arthritis.

This is completely false! Even though the risk of developing arthritis increases as you get older, the reality is that people of all ages, even children, develop this painful condition. According to the Arthritis Foundation, 300,000 infants, children, and teens live with various types of juvenile arthritis and other rheumatic diseases.

Myth: Once you’re diagnosed with arthritis, there isn’t much you can do.

While there may not be a cure for arthritis, there are still plenty of effective methods to slow its progression and make you more comfortable during your day-to-day activities. Lifestyle modifications such as regular activity matched with rest, a nutrient-rich diet, a healthy sleep routine, and self-care make a tremendous impact on the condition of your joints and your comfort. As well, your doctor will recommend proper medications to take to help manage your pain and inflammation.

Myth: Arthritis can not be prevented.

Though it’s true that you can’t completely prevent arthritis, it is possible to reduce your risk or delay the condition’s severity. Some risk factors, such as genetic conditions or being a female, you can not change, but others, such as an unhealthy lifestyle, you can take control of. Maintaining a healthy weight, being physically active, not smoking, and protecting your body and joints during sports or manual labor can all help reduce your chances of developing arthritis.

Myth: There is only one type of arthritis.

In fact, there are over 100 forms of this disease! The most common types are osteoarthritis, where the cartilage that protects the joints breaks down, psoriatic arthritis, an autoimmune inflammatory disease, and rheumatoid arthritis, where the immune system attacks the body’s joints and other organs.

Orthopaedist in Fairfield County

It’s crucial to seek expert medical treatment if you are dealing with problems or pain associated with your bones or joints. Give the professionals at Orthopaedic Specialty group a call at (203) 337-2600 and let us know how we can help you! Don’t let that pain hold you back from living your life. Your health and safety are our top priority.