There are many misconceptions about arthritis, what it is, and who is affected by it.
It’s a little known fact that there are about 130 different types of arthritis and most of the time when people think the disease, osteoarthritis comes to mind.
Because there is still so much to learn about certain types of arthritis, rumors and misconceptions often abound.
Below, Freedom Home Care offers a few facts that we believe will help dispel some of the myths associated with the disease.
 
Only Older People Get Arthritis
One of the most common types of arthritis is oarthritis. While it is most commonly found in older people, rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis can affect people from ages 1 to 65.
In fact, statistics from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that nearly two-thirds of people that suffer from arthritis associated with joint inflammation, are under 65.
 
Rheumatoid Arthritis Can Be Improved
Exercise, weight loss and physical therapy are all methods used to help manage symptoms of Rheumatoid arthritis, but the root of what causes the disease still remains.
One reason for this is that Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder where joints are affected by an autoimmune response in the synovial fluid. External remedies may help and are temporary at best, but do little to improve the condition.
 
People With Rheumatoid Arthritis Can Put Off Seeing A Doctor
Unfortunately, some people with RA delay until joint damage progressively affects their ability to function independently.
Studies show that after 5 years of diagnosis, 33 percent of RA patients are no longer able to work due to disability brought on by arthritis. And after 10 years, 50 percent of people with the disease have considerable functional disabilities.
At worst, RA can lead to a shortened life expectancy of 5 to 10 years.
Because, patients with Rheumatoid arthritis are also at risk for cardiovascular disease, lung disease and infection, Freedom Home Care recommends getting immediate diagnosis and medical treatment to maintain health, independence, and long-term function.
 
Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients Should Rest Most of the Day
One of the best things anyone with RA can do is stay as active as possible.
It’s no fun when joints are stiff and painful, but when there’s no movement in the joints, the surrounding muscles become weak and unstable.
A lack of physical activity can actually do more harm than good because of an increase in muscle loss.
While running or jogging might aggravate arthritis symptoms, low impact activities like swimming or stretching may not.  Check with your doctor to see which exercises are right for you.
 
There May Never Be Effective Diagnosis or Treatment
While doctors and scientists have yet to pinpoint the exact causes of joint inflammation and deterioration, over the past 15 years more treatment options have become available to people suffering from RA.
Biological drugs, DMARDS, and combination therapies are all designed to help people live and work with arthritis.