Myths & Facts About Arthritis

Here are some of the myths surrounding arthritis that may help you understand better.

- Dr J V Srinivas 

Arthritis is a condition that results in joint inflammation and pain. There are 2 types of arthritis: Osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). When the cartilage that resides between the bones in the joint breaks away, it causes OA which is the most prevalent type of arthritis. It is commonly known as “wear and tear” arthritis. Arthritis is a common ailment. OA is a primary cause of impairment in older people, affecting an estimated 7% to more than 500 million of the world’s population.

• Types of arthritis There are other types of arthritis besides Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis, including:
• Juvenile arthritis: This umbrella term refers to a collection of diseases that affect children
• Spondyloarthropathies: An autoimmune disease that affects the joints
• Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE): This autoimmune disease can affect a variety of body tissues, including joints
• Gout: Urate crystals build up in the joints in this disorder
• Infectious and reactive arthritis: Infectious and reactive arthritis refers to joint inflammation caused by an infection
• Psoriatic arthritis: Almost one-third of persons with psoriasis suffer from this illness

Myth 1: Only older people get arthritis

While the risk of arthritis grows with age - half of the people aged 65 and up have arthritis – the truth is that arthritis affects people of all ages, including children and young adults. 300,000 children, adolescents, and adults suffer from juvenile arthritis and other rheumatic diseases.