10 Facts To Know
Osteoarthritis is the commonest type among all types of arthritis, others being rheumatoid arthritis, gouty arthritis and reactive arthritis.
Knee joint is the most common sufferer though spine, base of thumb and hip joint are also frequently involved.
There are lots of misconceptions about arthritis. Lets have a look at them here.
1. Arthritis is gap in the joints
There is a natural gap in every synovial joint in the body which is filled with joint fluid. In arthritis there is reduction of this gap which is visible on X-rays.
2. Knuckle cracking can cause arthritis
Cracking is the result of nitrogen bubbles bursting in joint and does not cause arthritis per se, but it may damage surrounding tendons and ligaments. Should defiinitely be avoided if its painful.
3. Arthritis is genetic
Though you can definitely blame the bad genes for it but there are many other causes like injury, obesity and lifestyle.
4. Jogging will cause arthritis
Jogging is one of the good excercise for a healthy knee along with swimming, cycling and brisk walking, as it helps maintain cartilage nutrition, muscle strength, co-ordination and cardiac function.
5. Citrus fruits will increase arthritis
Citrus fruits are a very good source of Vitamin-C which helps maintain health of cartilage, tendon, ligaments and bone.
6. Cracking in joints is arthritis and always needs treatment
Sometime there might be normal crackling sounds in joints during movement and it does not necessarily mean its arthritis. It does not require treatment unless associated with pain/swelling/blocking or instability.
7. Rainy weather will increase arthritis
Some people can predict the rain by increase in their arthritic pain. While humidity might lead to temporary increase in joint pain, it does not worsen the arthritis.
8. Rest the joint in pain
While avoiding heavy exertion is advisable during pain, total rest will be counterproductive to the joint health as it will decrease joint nutrition, muscle strength and lead to weight gain.
9. Medicines or diet will cure arthritis
Contrary to cheap advertisement on TV and online, there is no wonder drug, diet or oil to ‘cure’ arthritis. While proper diet and excercise will definitely help by controlling body weight, the best medicines can do for now is relieve pain.
10. Knee replacement is the only treatment of arthritis
Early diagnosis and management is very important to prevent progression to end stage where knee replacement might be the only good option. At Sync along with surgery there are plenty of non-surgical options available to prevent arthritis progression.
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Disclaimer: This post is intended for general information only and not treatment purpose. Images may be subjected to copyright.
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