Arthritis Myths
Debunking the Myths, Misconceptions, and Misinformation About Arthritis:
- Arthritis is a natural
consequence of aging. False. While the risk of OA (osteoarthritis)
increases with age, it should not be considered a "normal" by-product of the
aging process.
- Arthritis only affects
women. While it is true that women are more likely to be affected
and to be affected more seriously (2 out of 3 women over 65 have OA), more
than half of all men over 65 will also have OA.
- Arthritis only affects
postmenopausal women. False. Many types of arthritis actually begin
in the 20's or 30's; JRA (juvenile rheumatoid arthritis) can begin in toddlers.
Arthritis is actually the most common chronic condition among those over the
age of 15. Two out of three Americans with arthritis are under age 65.
- Arthritis is arthritis;
if I have it, I can just treat myself with over the counter medications.
While an estimated 6 million Americans subscribe to this approach, there is
a tremendous value to seeing your physician to be properly evaluated and treated
for this condition. Arthritis can start as just minor aches and pains, but
if left undiagnosed and untreated, it can become a significant disability.
- Nothing can be done to treat arthritis. Not true.
Click here for more information on Arthritis.
Created: 10/17/2000 - Donnica Moore, M.D.
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