Did you know that there are more than 100 types of arthritis, each with its own unique characteristics that end up affecting the joints? Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are some of the most common forms of arthritis, affecting about 52.8 crore people and 1.8 crore people worldwide, respectively, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Despite these whopping numbers, there are several misconceptions about the condition circulating among large populations. To help debunk some of these myths, we spoke to leading experts.
Also Read: How To Identify Arthritis In Your Hands: Symptoms To Watch Out For
Myth 1: Cracking Knuckles Causes Arthritis
Cracking knuckles is usually harmless and does not do much damage. In certain cases, dislocations or tendon injuries have been reported, but these are rare scenarios. Many even claim that this compulsive behaviour can cause arthritis, to which Dr Rajni Ranjan, Consultant-Orthopaedics, Sharda Hospital, Greater Noida, says that there is no scientific evidence linking the two.
He explains that the sound from knuckle cracking is caused by gas bubbles bursting in the synovial fluid within the joint and has nothing to do with joint damage or arthritis.
Myth 2: Only the Elderly Get Arthritis
There is a general belief that arthritis is an old person’s disease. However, there is little truth to it. While older adults are more likely to develop the condition, younger individuals are also at risk of developing various forms of arthritis. In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Raghu Nagaraj, Director-Orthopaedics and Joint Replacement Surgeon, Fortis Hospital, Cunningham Road, Bengaluru, says that other factors, including a family history, repetitive injuries, obesity, and smoking, can contribute to the risk of arthritis development.
Additionally, women are more susceptible to most types of arthritis than men, including osteoarthritis (OA), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and fibromyalgia, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Myth 3: Arthritis is Just Joint Pain
Contrary to popular belief, Dr Shaloo Bhasin Gagneja, Senior Consultant-Rheumatology, Manipal Hospital, Gurugram, suggests that arthritis goes beyond just joint pain. RA, which is a common form of arthritis, is a systemic disease that affects different parts of the body, according to the Arthritis Foundation. This includes eye issues, skin problems, respiratory difficulties, and more.
Myth 4: Cold Weather Aggravates Arthritis
While some individuals report increased pain or stiffness during cold weather, scientific evidence linking weather changes to arthritis symptoms is inconclusive, says Dr Ranjan. According to him, factors like activity level and humidity may have a more significant impact on the symptoms.
Also Read: Winter And Arthritis: Can Cold Temperatures Worsen Symptoms?
Myth 5: Arthritis Is Inevitably Disabling
Arthritis is definitely one of the leading causes of disability. However, many individuals with arthritis lead active and fulfilling lives with proper management, including medication, exercise, and lifestyle modifications, says Dr Ranjan.
According to Dr Gagneja, arthritis management requires a comprehensive approach that includes medications to control inflammation and pain, physical therapy to improve mobility, and counselling to address the emotional impact of living with a chronic illness.
She also emphasises the importance of understanding the severity of this condition and being aware of the available treatment options. According to him, this can help patients take an active role in managing their symptoms and improving their quality of life.