Arthritis
What are some common myths about arthritis?
Myth: Arthritis is an old person’s disease.
- Arthritis affects one in every two people over 65 years of age.
- Nearly 3 out of 5 people with arthritis are younger than 65 years of age.
- Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis is one of the most common chronic illnesses of childhood.
Myth: Arthritis is just a normal part of aging.
- Nearly half of the elderly population never experience conditions associated with arthritis.
- Approximately 294,000 children under the age of 18 are affected by pediatric arthritis and rheumatologic conditions.
- Some forms of arthritis (e.g., osteoarthritis of the knee) can be prevented.
Myth: There is no cure for most forms of arthritis.
- While no "magic bullet" exists for all types of arthritis, research shows that early diagnosis and appropriate management can help reduce the consequences associated with many types of arthritis.
- Medication, education, physical activity, and surgery are four effective treatment strategies that can indeed make a difference.
- The Arthritis Foundation's self-help course has been shown to reduce pain by 20 percent and physician visits by 40 percent.
What are the risk factors for arthritis?
- Women
- Obesity
- Age
- Joint injuries
- Genetic predisposition
- Infections
- Certain occupations
How can arthritis be prevented?
- Weight management, proper nutrition, and physical activity can all work together to prevent certain forms of arthritis.
- Exercise and self-management programs are effective in reducing the pain and disability associated with arthritis and related diseases.