myths and facts about arthritis

In order to get to grips with the disease arthritis, let us look at some myths and facts about arthritis. Arthritis is a very bizarre condition. The disease has been with man for a long time. It is also very well documented. Inspite of this, the disease still remains a mystery. In the sense that it is still shrouded in myths. There are well over hundred forms of arthritis presently known and there is a lot of oft-repeated myths that continue to be believed by people. Also gout form of arthritis is one form of arthritis this often misunderstood.There is a continuous study of arthritis going on and new therapies are steadily being developed. In order to test our knowledge of arthritis lets look at these myths and facts about arthritis.

Myth number 1: This is the most common myth about arthritis. That arthritis is an older person's disease. Only the elderly people are affected by it.

Fact: This is clearly false. Although, older people are normally affected, it is a fact that about half of people affected by one form of arthritis or the order are under the age of 65. One form of arthritis that can affect even young people is the Rheumatoid arthritis. Besides, the number of younger people being diagnosed with some form of arthritis is rising. This is especially so with the baby boomer generation slowly entering retirement age. Therefore, the myth that it only affects the elderly does not hold water. Those who are affected today are often active, working adults.

Myth number 2: Another common myth is that if you suffer from arthritis, you are resigned to a life of stiff joints.

Fact: Even though arthritis is a condition characterized by stiff and pained joints this doesn't mean you have to live a life marked by pain and discomfort. Drug therapies can really do well in controlling stiffness and pain. Also, there are various non-drug therapies that can be quite useful. Some of these include occupational and physical therapy. The management of lifestyle, weight and diet can also go a long way to providing relief for the main symptoms of this condition.

Myth number 3: Another myth is that arthritis only means stiff joints.

Fact: It is true that stiff joints is one of the most common effect of arthritis. However, this does not necessarily mean the joints are just stiff. The stiffness is mostly as a result of inflammation of the joints. Moreover, stiff joints may not automatically indicate arthritis. They can also be the result of injury or the existence of illness.

Myth number 4: Another myth about arthritis is if either of your parents, mother or father, suffered from rheumatoid arthritis, you will most likely suffer from it one day as well.

Fact: Presently there is not enough evidence to establish that rheumatoid arthritis is an inherited condition. It is true that some people may be genetically inclined toward the disease, but hereditary factors are not a major risk factor. The Rheumatoid arthritis is not a result of wear and tear or hereditary. It is, as a matter of fact, an autoimmune disorder. In this condition the body attacks its own tissues, causing the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis to develop.

Myth number 5: Having some form of arthritis means physical activity is no more allowed. So that you don't sprain or hurt yourself.

Fact: Actually, contrary is the case. Exercise is one of the best therapies for those with arthritis. Exercise has been shown to slow the loss of muscle and bone density. Exercise strengthens the muscles, improves flexibility, and helps patients increase their overall range of motion.

The articles on this website should not be used as a basis for any form of diagnosis or treatment for any medical condition. Always seek professional medical advice.

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