When it comes to joint pain, is it arthritis or can it be something else? Find out what the facts say about arthritis and joint pain.
There is a lot of misinformation out there when it comes to osteoarthritis (OA), joint pain, and how these conditions should be treated. To help you out, here are some facts about joint pain and arthritis that will clarify some of the more common myths.
Joint Pain and Arthritis
Even though OA may cause joint pain, not all joint pain is due to arthritis. In fact, there are plenty of other conditions that can cause joint pain such as tendonitis, bursitis, and other soft-tissue injuries. If you’re experiencing chronic joint pain that is not due to an obvious cause, then a visit to the rheumatologist may provide the right diagnosis and treatment.
Arthritis and Rain
Some people believe that rain and damp weather will worsen the symptoms of arthritis. However, there is no scientific evidence that proves that either dampness or humidity will intensify arthritis symptoms.
Exercises and Arthritis
If your arthritis is acting up, you probably feel like you need to take it easy with exercise. Nevertheless, it’s important that you make regular and sensible exercise a part of your routine to help maintain your strength and range of motion.
“Be careful,” warns rheumatologist M. Elaine Husni, MD, MPH. “Know your limits and start with 20 minutes at a time. Your doctor can guide you and suggest exercise that’s gentler on the joints if your current exercise routine causes pain.”
Vegetable Cures for Arthritis
While some people may claim that certain vegetables (e.g.: raisins, grapefruits, eggplants) will cure arthritis, the fact is that there is no cure for it. Still, that doesn’t mean that you can’t manage your symptoms by leading a healthy lifestyle. “Make sure to increase your fresh fruits and vegetables,” says Husni. “Some fruits and veggies have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe your pain.”
Heat vs. Ice for Sore Joints
While you may prefer one over the other, the truth is that both cold and heat are useful for arthritis. “Applying ice at night can ease joint inflammation arising from daily activities,” says Husni. “Applying heat in the morning can relax the muscles that move stiff joints.”
Managing Your Arthritis
If you have arthritis, then it’s important that you discuss treatment options with your rheumatologist to see what works best for you. “A diagnosis of arthritis doesn’t mean the end of an active lifestyle,” says Husni. “When treating OA, our goal is to help you learn to manage all aspects of pain and to increase your joint mobility and strength.”
If you want an extra boost to your health, consider taking supplements like Joint Health Support. Its ingredients promote fortified cartilage, reduced inflammation and swelling, lubricated joints, and joint gap increase (and less rubbing). Give your joint health the support it deserves by getting the right diagnosis and taking Joint Health Support.