Chances are you know someone, young or old, living with arthritis. Arthritis affects more than 50 million Americans. One in every five adults and 300,000 children live with the debilitating condition that causes joint pain, stiffness, immobility and swelling.
During May Arthritis Awareness we want to remind our community about common myths and misconceptions surrounding this disease. (Courtesy of the Arthritis Foundation)
Myth #1: Arthritis aches and pains just come with getting older.
Fact: People of all ages, races, and genders suffer from arthritis. Two-thirds of those with arthritis are under the age of 65, including 300,000 children.
Myth #2: Arthritis is not considered a serious health concern.
Fact: People with arthritis log 44 million outpatient visits and account for 992,100 hospitalizations each year. The disease is a more common cause for limited physical activity than heart disease, cancer or diabetes, and is expected to affect more than 67 million Americans by the year 2030.
Myth #3: Arthritis patients should avoid exercising.
Fact: Endurance and resistance types of exercise offer unique benefits for people with osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatic conditions, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Regular exercise helps maintain a healthy weight, and a healthy weight greatly reduces pressure on the joints frequently affected by arthritis, such as the knees.
Myth #4: Not much is being done to advance a cure or treatments for arthritis.
Fact: Medical groups around the world are dedicated to arthritis research and developing better treatment options while hunting for a cure. Special organizations are also focused on raising awareness of the disease and its issues at the local level and in Washington, D.C. to generate more funds and assistance for research.
Are you suffering through joint pain? Don't. Make an appointment with a Texas Orthopedics specialists to find out the source of your aches and pains.
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