Arthritis Awareness

MYTH:  All joint pain is arthritis.

FACT:  Other conditions can cause joint pain, such as soft-tissue injuries (tendonitis, bursitis).  Be evaluated by an expert in joint disease to ensure the right diagnosis and treatment.

MYTH: Rainy, damp weather worsens arthritis.

FACT:  Although many people believe a twinge in an arthritic knee can predict pain, there is no scientific evidence that dampness and humidity intensify arthritis.

NIKKI:  Yes, it does.  I am scientific proof!

MYTH:  Take it easy when your arthritis acts up.

FACT:  Exercise may be beneficial for arthritis, although sometimes arthritic joints need a short rest with a gradual return to activity.  Ask your doctor for guidelines, including exercises that are gentle on the joints.

NIKKI:  Definitely ask your doctor!  With RA and OA, I am definitely limited, but each form of arthritis is different, so only trust what YOUR BODY says!!

MYTH:  Disabled is how everyone with rheumatoid arthritis ends up.

FACT:  When rheumatoid arthritis is diagnosed and treated early, the chances of maintaining joint function and mobility are very good.

NIKKI:  "Very good" is misleading.  I have my challenging days (weeks, months, etc.!) and I've had to have many reconstructive surgeries, as is the case with many other RA sufferers.  The glass is definitely half full, but you have to be mentally prepared for the tough times...and there will be tough times, very tough times.

MYTH:  Eating rum-soaked raisins, eggplant and other "nightshade" vegetables, and following the "grapefruit diet" can cure arthritis.

FACT:  Dietary changes have no effect on arthritis.  Although arthritis has no cure, medications can effectively manage symptoms and permit normal activity.

NIKKI:  I agree with the first fact.  However, I do believe there is a cure.

MYTH:  Ice is less helpful than heat for arthritis.

FACT:  Both cold and heat are useful in arthritis.  Apply ice at night to ease joint inflammation arising from daily activities.  Apply heat in the morning to relax the muscles that move stiff joints.

NIKKI:  They both help!  My doctor said to use whatever feels better at the time, no matter what time of day.

MYTH:  Treatment for rheumatoid arthritis can be toxic, so put it off as long as you can.

FACT:  Early treatment for this progressive disease leads to improved outcomes and a better quality of life.  Do not wait to seek help!

MYTH:  Immature bones aren't susceptible to arthritis; only the elderly suffer from this condition.

FACT:  Children can suffer from various forms of arthritis, the most common being juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.  Young adults also can develop arthritis; remember, there are more than 100 types!

MYTH:  Supplements like glucosamine are good for any kind of arthritis.

FACT:  Glucosamine only helps osteoarthritis.  It helps to stimulate the growth of cartilage that has worn away.  We advise people to take glucosamine (with chondroitin) for three months to see if it makes any difference.  If so, use it; if not, don't waste your money!

Source: b-Well, a Cleveland Clinic Publication.  Spring 2009

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