Myths and Facts about Arthritis

Arthritis is one of the most common causes of chronic pain. It affects nearly 25% of the adult population, with over 54 million people suffering from diagnosed cases. There’s a ton of old wives’ tales, myths, and misconceptions about arthritis, from how to treat it to how to prevent it. It’s important you get your information from the right sources.

Dr. Nameer Haider of Cell Bionics Institute has two offices: in Sterling, Virginia and Utica, New York. He can help you by providing the correct arthritis diagnosis, but it’s easy to get the wrong impression if you follow up with “Dr. Google” research. This article will debunk and clarify many arthritis myths you may have encountered, so you can get a better handle on the facts of your condition. 

Separating fact from fiction 

Arthritis is a widespread affliction, especially among people with degenerative joint and spine conditions or repetitive use injuries. Because arthritis is so common and painful, you’ll find it easy to get swept up in stories about “miracle cures” or to be led astray by pseudoscience. Here are some of the top myths, along with the facts that disprove them.

Myth: Cracking your knuckles causes arthritis.

Fact: Cracking your knuckles is harmless, and simply releases air within your joints. While some people find it annoying to listen to, it doesn’t lead to arthritis. 

Myth: Arthritis only happens to old people. 

Fact: While arthritis is more likely to occur as you get older, children as young as one or two can be diagnosed with the condition. In fact, 7.1% of people between the ages of 18-44 report doctor-diagnosed arthritis.

Myth: Using your joints will make arthritis worse. 

Fact: Staying still and avoiding movement can worsen arthritis over time. The myth about activity causing your arthritis to worsen is worse than false; it’s actively harmful. When you exercise, you’re increasing flexibility and strengthening the muscles, ligaments, and tendons that support those joints.

Myth: There’s nothing you can do for arthritis. 

Fact: There’s a lot you can do for arthritis, especially in its early stages. Here’s just a sampling of the things you can do to alleviate pain and slow down arthritis: 

• Physical therapy
• Hot/cold therapy
• Assistive devices (braces, orthotics, canes)
• Reducing pressure on joints (losing weight, changing routines)
• Over-the-counter medications 
• Switching to an anti-inflammatory diet
• Cortisone or hyaluronic acid injections
• Platelet-rich-plasma (PRP) injections (found to be useful for knee arthritis symptoms)

Why professional advice is important 

As you can see, certain myths can actually harm you and give you a bleak, hopeless outlook on your condition. In reality, you can lead a healthy, fulfilling life while coping with arthritis. It’s vital you seek out real guidance from medical professionals — they can give you the information and advice you need to improve your mobility and maintain your lifestyle. Dr. Haider works with you to create a wellness plan that focuses on letting you live an active, healthy life even if you have arthritis.

If you’re struggling with arthritis and want more information, get in touch with us at Cell Bionics Institute. You can call the location closest to you, or book an appointment online.