Arthritis is a disorder characterised by joint discomfort and inflammation. There are two primary kinds of arthritis: Osteoarthritis (OA) and Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) (RA). Although arthritis is a common ailment, there are numerous misconceptions about its nature, progression, and management.

When cartilage between the bones of a joint deteriorates, the most common form of arthritis, osteoarthritis, develops. It is the greatest cause of impairment among older persons and is often known as "wear and tear" arthritis.

vRA arises when the immune system assaults healthy body tissue by mistake. It can also impact muscles, connective tissue, tendons, and fibrous tissue in addition to joints. It often manifests sooner in life than OA, typically between the ages of 20 and 40, and can have a significant impact on day-to-day activities.

In addition to OA and RA, there are various other types of arthritis, such as:

• Childhood arthritis
• Spondyloarthropathies
• Erythematous lupus systemicus
• Gout
• Infectious and inflammatory arthritides
• arthritic psoriasis

Common misconceptions about Arthritis:

Myth 1: Only elderly suffer from arthritis

Arthritis affects people of all ages, but it is more prevalent in older folks. As previously stated, RA typically manifests between the ages of 20 and 40.

Myth 2: Joint pain indicates arthritis

The opposite is true. Not all joint pain is arthritis, and not every joint discomfort is a precursor to the development of arthritis. There are numerous potential reasons of joint discomfort, including tendinitis, bursitis, and traumas.

Myth 3: Arthritic patients should not exercise.

In general, people with arthritis do not need to avoid exercise, although they should see their doctor before commencing a regimen. Exercise can assist maintain joint range of motion and joint strength.

Arthritis and exercise can and should coexist. People with arthritis who routinely exercise experience less pain, more energy, better sleep, and enhanced daily function. Exercise should be a central component of treatment for osteoarthritis of the hip and knee.

Myth 4: Heat is preferable to ice for aching joints.

The opposite is true. Both ice and heat can alleviate joint pain.

Utilized properly, heat can alleviate joint and muscle pain and stiffness. The application of ice can aid in reducing joint inflammation and swelling.

Heat should be applied prior to activity, when a joint is stiff, and when there is pain. Cold can help alleviate discomfort, and it may be beneficial if the joint is inflamed, especially if there is swelling after exercise.

Myth 5: Arthritis cannot be avoided

As certain risk factors, such as rising age, are not adjustable, it is impossible to avoid every incidence of arthritis. However, certain risk factors can be eliminated or reduced to prevent the beginning of arthritis or limit its course. Those who are overweight, for instance, have an increased chance of getting knee OA. Maintaining a healthy weight helps reduce the risk of arthritis. Also connected with an increased chance of developing RA is tobacco use. Quitting smoking will minimise the risk and provide numerous additional health advantages. In addition, since arthritis can develop after injuries, preserving the joints during sports and other physical activities can help lower the risk of getting arthritis in the future.

Myth 6: Following a diagnosis, there is nothing that can be done.

Despite the fact that there is frequently no cure for the condition, its progression differs depending on the type of arthritis. There are various medications that can alleviate the symptoms of numerous types of arthritis and halt the progression of the disease. Some types of arthritis can also be slowed by adopting healthy lifestyle habits, such as keeping a healthy weight, quitting smoking, eating a balanced diet, and getting enough sleep.

Myth 7: Changes in the weather can aggravate arthritis

Persistently, it has been asserted that rain and damp weather exacerbate arthritic symptoms. However, the evidence is not conclusive, and the weather does not appear to impact all arthritis sufferers.

Despite medical advancements, there is still much to understand about arthritis. We do know, however, that by maintaining a lifestyle that includes exercise and a nutritious, well-balanced diet, we can lower the risk of developing certain types of arthritis and halt their progression. As scientists continue to research these illnesses, it is inevitable that better treatments will emerge.