Get Clarity About Arthritis

By Dr. BIREN NADKARNI

Any condition, whether it be cancer, heart disease, or arthritis, can be treated with awareness. It is common knowledge that arthritis can hurt, swell, and inflame one or more joints. Instead of referring to a single illness, it is an all-encompassing term used to describe several disorders.

Some common myths regarding arthritis:

Arthritis cannot affect children

Fact: Although there are numerous varieties of arthritis that can afflict both children and young adults, the condition is more prevalent in older people. The most frequent kind of arthritis in children, juvenile arthritis (also known as childhood arthritis or juvenile rheumatoid arthritis), can permanently harm joints.

All joint pains are arthritis

Fact: Several illnesses, including tendonitis, bursitis, and other soft-tissue injuries, can cause joint pain and have a pain profile resembling that of arthritis. Therefore, it is crucial to obtain a precise medical diagnosis before treating any kind of joint discomfort.

When you start experiencing joint pain, you should wait to see if it goes away on its own

Fact: False. Early detection and treatment of arthritis can not only save your joints but also protect your important organs from harm. Some types, like rheumatoid arthritis, can harm the heart, blood vessels, brain, skin, eyes, lungs, and skin. It is important to identify the type of arthritis you have as soon as possible since many treatments are available and starting the right course of treatment can help you avoid suffering long-term effects.

Exercising will worsen your condition

Fact: Exercise helps lessen discomfort and swelling while boosting strength, range of motion, and flexibility. Inactivity can make the symptoms worse, causing the pain and swelling to worsen. Before you enroll yourself in any exercise program, it is also important to know what your limits are and what level of exercise you can benefit from.

Heating pads relieve sore joints

Fact: Joint pain can be relieved by ice as well as heat. Heat can ease pain and stiffness in joints and muscles when applied properly. The cold application might help to reduce soreness and joint inflammation. When a joint is stiff or hurting, people should apply heat before exercising. Additionally, cold can reduce pain and may be helpful if a joint is irritated, especially if there is swelling post-exercise.

Hands and feet will remain deformed

Fact: Deformities may result from untreated and undiagnosed arthritis. However, this can be avoided with early detection and treatment. Most patients with arthritis lead functional and productive lives.