Five Myths about Arthritis Pain (And One That Might Be True)
Arthritis is a common condition affecting about 20% of the US population. Despite this fact — or perhaps because of it — myths and misconceptions surrounding arthritis abound. Unfortunately, many of these myths can contribute to more pain and a decreased quality of life for people struggling with the condition.
At South Sherbrook Therapy, we want to help dispel some of these myths. By understanding the intricacies of arthritis, you can better manage your symptoms and live a full, active life.
Keep reading to find out some surprising facts about arthritis. And if you’d like to learn more about the role of physiotherapy in arthritis management, call our clinic to schedule an appointment today!
Myth 1: There’s Only One Type of Arthritis
We often talk about arthritis as if it’s one condition, but the word actually refers to over 100 distinct conditions, all of which cause inflammation in the joints. The most common type of arthritis worldwide is osteoarthritis, a degenerative form primarily affecting older people. Because it’s so common, people sometimes use “arthritis” and “osteoarthritis” interchangeably, but they are two distinct terms.
It’s important to recognize the different types of arthritis because they can cause slightly different symptoms and complications. For example, rheumatoid arthritis (the second most common form of arthritis) is an autoimmune condition that can cause fatigue and fever alongside painful joints.
Myth 2: All Joint Pain is Some Type of Arthritis
Actually, there are many reasons why someone might experience joint pain. Overuse injuries, ligament tears, and bursitis can all trigger pain and restricted mobility in your joints.
If you’re struggling with persistent pain in a joint, your best bet is to schedule an appointment at South Sherbrook Therapy. Our physiotherapists will perform a comprehensive assessment and can let you know for certain what’s causing your symptoms.
Myth 3: Arthritis Pain is a Normal Part of Aging
Because the most common form of arthritis primarily affects older people, many assume that arthritis pain is an inevitable part of growing older. In reality, 53% of adults aged 65 or older haven’t been diagnosed with arthritis. Even among people 80 or older, around 43% don’t have a diagnosis.
Age is certainly connected to arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, but you have options for preventing its development. Furthermore, developing arthritis doesn’t necessarily mean you have to suffer. In many cases, people may have arthritis on imaging and not experience pain.
Myth 4: There’s Nothing You Can Do About Arthritis Pain
Along with Myth #5, this is one of the biggest myths out there. While it’s true the most common types of arthritis have no cure, you can manage your symptoms and delay the condition’s progression — all without surgery, too!
Physiotherapy is one of your options. We can help you manage your pain through manual therapy and therapeutic exercise. Diet also plays a role; eating a healthy diet rich in fruits, veggies, and whole grains can help minimize joint inflammation.
Myth 5: You Shouldn’t Exercise If You Have Arthritis
Of all the arthritis myths, this is probably the one that has done the most damage. While it might seem logical on the surface, especially if you have osteoarthritis, exercise and movement actually protect you against arthritis pain!
Staying active can help prevent arthritis from developing in the first place. But if you’ve already developed the condition, regular physical activity is essential in reducing your pain and mobility restrictions.
The key is to ensure you perform low-impact activities that don’t put too much stress on your joints. The team at South Sherbrook Therapy can help you find the right exercise program to suit your needs.
Myth 6: Weather Changes Cause Arthritis Pain
Surprisingly, this myth might have some truth to it. While weather doesn’t cause arthritis pain, studies show that some rheumatoid arthritis patients experience slightly increased symptoms in cooler weather.
Separate Truth From Fiction with South Sherbrook Therapy
Our team is here to help you manage your arthritis pain. We’ll let you know what works, what doesn’t, and help you find a customized solution that meets your needs.
Call to make your appointment today!
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For 20 years, South Sherbrook Therapy has been proud to serve and support our incredible community. We are deeply grateful for the trust you’ve placed in us and for allowing us to be part of your health and wellness journey. Here’s to two decades of care, connection, and helping our community move and feel their very best.
Spring Is Running Season! Are You In Your Best Shape?
Are you looking forward to starting running again after a long winter? At South Sherbrook Therapy, our therapists understand running injuries, and we will make sure you run pain-free this spring!
Runners are often misled into believing unproven solutions to avoiding pain and injury. Not many people know that the number-one risk factor for runners to sustain an injury is having had an injury in the last 12 months.
The other most common risk factors are:
- Running experience of 0–2 years
- Restarting running after extended rest
- Overtraining (i.e., more than 40 miles per week)
To ensure you can get back to running or increasing your mileage without pain or injury, start with an injury evaluation and a biomechanical assessment to identify any factors that could contribute to pain or injury.
Our therapists will take a thorough history to understand your training schedule, previous injuries, and overall health status. We use this information to create an individualized program to alleviate pain and get you back to running without limits.
Exercise of the Month
CALF RAISES
Stand tall with your feet hip-width apart and your hands resting on a chair or countertop for support. Slowly rise up onto the balls of your feet, lifting your heels off the ground. Hold briefly at the top, then lower back down with control.
3 Sets, 10 Reps. (Materials needed: chair or countertop for balance)
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This Crock Pot Irish Stew is a hearty, comforting classic that’s perfect for celebrating spring. Slow-cooked and full of rich flavor, it’s an easy, cozy meal to enjoy with family and friends. 🍀