It's not a disease of the old: Arthritis myths debunked

The Arthritis Foundation reports two-thirds of people with doctor-diagnosed arthritis are under age 65.

Common myth 1: Arthritis only affects the elderly

While older people do develop arthritis, children and teenagers can get certain forms of the condition. Researchers don't know the exact cause of arthritis, but they do know what puts people at risk. While the disease is associated with aging, other risk factors include heredity, joint injury, obesity and lack of fitness.

Common myth 2: Cracking your knuckles causes arthritis

Now this myth I can relate to. I have cracked my knuckles since childhood and while it's annoying to most people, my knuckles are not deformed and I have not developed arthritis. (Thank God!) It's good to know that experts say cracking your knuckles is not a risk factor for arthritis.

Common myth 3: Bad weather causes flare-ups

How many times have you heard someone who suffers from joint pain say that they feel better when the weather is warm? Researchers have studied the claims, but concluded there is no scientific evidence to suggest arthritis flare-ups occur during bad weather.

The truth is, most people prefer to stay indoors when it's extremely cold. And, if you live in an area that experiences several months of bitter cold weather, your physical activity may be markedly limited. However, if you live in a warmer climate you're likely to be more active for more months out of the year and that's probably why people with arthritis feel better, which brings me to my next point...

Common myth 4: Exercising aggravates arthritis

People need to stay active and move their joints to keep the muscles strong and to keep the joints flexible. Yes, people with arthritis may experience pain during and after exercising but over time, the post-exercise pain diminishes if you push through and stay consistent.

It's important to choose exercises that are easy on the joints such as, walking, biking or swimming. To relieve the pain you feel after exercising, put ice on an aching joint and take a nonsteroidal, anti-inflammatory medication before or after exercising.

Common myth 5: Nothing helps 

Because my family suffers from a myriad of ailments, this is a myth I hear often. Ahh, the power of negative thinking...

If aches and pains persist for more than four weeks, it's time to pay attention! A proper diagnosis can lead to a host of possible treatments, including the latest prescription medicines for pain and rehabilitating aching joints through physical therapy. Not to mention holistic approaches to pain relief such as, acupuncture.