Five Myths about Arthritis Pain (And One That Might Be True)

Five Myths about Arthritis Pain (And One That Might Be True)

Arthritis is a common condition affecting about 20% of the US population. Despite this fact — or perhaps because of it — myths and misconceptions surrounding arthritis abound. Unfortunately, many of these myths can contribute to more pain and a decreased quality of life for people struggling with the condition.

At Kinect Physiotherapy, we want to help dispel some of these myths. By understanding the intricacies of arthritis, you can better manage your symptoms and live a full, active life.

Keep reading to find out some surprising facts about arthritis. And if you’d like to learn more about the role of physical therapy in arthritis management, call our clinic to schedule an appointment today!

Myth 1: There’s Only One Type of Arthritis

We often talk about arthritis as if it’s one condition, but the word actually refers to over 100 distinct conditions, all of which cause inflammation in the joints. The most common type of arthritis worldwide is osteoarthritis, a degenerative form primarily affecting older people. Because it’s so common, people sometimes use “arthritis” and “osteoarthritis” interchangeably, but they are two distinct terms.

It’s important to recognize the different types of arthritis because they can cause slightly different symptoms and complications. For example, rheumatoid arthritis (the second most common form of arthritis) is an autoimmune condition that can cause fatigue and fever alongside painful joints.

Myth 2: All Joint Pain is Some Type of Arthritis

Actually, there are many reasons why someone might experience joint pain. Overuse injuries, ligament tears, and bursitis can all trigger pain and restricted mobility in your joints.

If you’re struggling with persistent pain in a joint, your best bet is to schedule an appointment at Kinect Physiotherapy. Our physical therapists will perform a comprehensive assessment and can let you know for certain what’s causing your symptoms

Myth 3: Arthritis Pain is a Normal Part of Aging

Because the most common form of arthritis primarily affects older people, many assume that arthritis pain is an inevitable part of growing older. In reality, 53% of adults aged 65 or older haven’t been diagnosed with arthritis. Even among people 80 or older, around 43% don’t have a diagnosis.

Age is certainly connected to arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, but you have options for preventing its development. Furthermore, developing arthritis doesn’t necessarily mean you have to suffer.

Myth 4: There’s Nothing You Can Do About Arthritis Pain

Along with Myth #5, this is one of the biggest myths out there. While it’s true the most common types of arthritis have no cure, you can manage your symptoms and delay the condition’s progression — all without surgery, too!

Physical therapy is one of your options. We can help you manage your pain through manual therapy and therapeutic exercise. Diet also plays a role; eating a healthy diet rich in fruits, veggies, and whole grains can help minimize joint inflammation.

Myth 5: You Shouldn’t Exercise If You Have Arthritis

Of all the arthritis myths, this is probably the one that has done the most damage. While it might seem logical on the surface, especially if you have osteoarthritis, exercise and movement actually protect you against arthritis pain!

Staying active can help prevent arthritis from developing in the first place. But if you’ve already developed the condition, regular physical activity is essential in reducing your pain and mobility restrictions.

The key is to ensure you perform low-impact activities that don’t put too much stress on your joints. The team at Kinect Physiotherapy can help you find the right exercise program to suit your needs.

Myth 6: Weather Changes Cause Arthritis Pain

Surprisingly, this myth might have some truth to it. While weather doesn’t cause arthritis pain, studies show that some rheumatoid arthritis patients experience slightly increased symptoms in cooler weather.

Separate Truth From Fiction with Kinect Physiotherapy

Our team is here to help you manage your arthritis pain. We’ll let you know what works, what doesn’t, and help you find a customized solution that meets your needs.

Call to make your appointment today!

Say Goodbye to Pain – Get Started with PT Now!

Ready to feel your best again? Come back to Kinect Physiotherapy and let us help you achieve your wellness goals—book your appointment today!

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Tips for Planting a Potted Herb Garden

Have you been wanting to get into gardening, but don’t have the yard space? Consider planting a potted herb garden!

Container gardening is easy, convenient, and leaves you with a supply of beautiful fresh herbs. Almost any herb can be grown in a container, so the possibilities are endless!

Here are a few tips and tricks to ensure your potted herb garden is successful this spring:

1. Be mindful of what you plant.

One of the exciting things about a potted herb garden is that you can grow as many different types of herbs as you want in the same container. However, before you start planting, be sure to do some research on the sun, water, and soil requirements of each herb.

For example, rosemary prefers hot and dry conditions, whereas parsley requires consistent moisture. As a result, they would not get along in the same pot.

2. Choose the right container.

As long as it has good drainage, you can use almost anything as an herb container. However, it’s important to be aware that using smaller pots means you need to be extra cautious in how much you water your herbs. Too much or too little water can be especially detrimental to an herb in a small pot.

3. Use high quality soil.

The best way to ensure a healthy start to your container garden is by using high quality soil. Container soil should be lighter in density than traditional garden soil. You can also add organic matter, like perlite or peat moss, to the mixture to improve drainage and moisture retention.

We hope you’re feeling ready to get started on your potted herb garden this spring. Remember to have fun and good luck!

Patient Success

“Jason is super to work with. He is very personable and knowledgeable. He helped me work through a ruptured bicep tendon repair spectacularly. A+”

-Jason R.

Healthy Recipe

Trail Mix

Fuel your day with a delicious boost by trying out this easy, energizing trail mix recipe! It’s the perfect on-the-go snack to keep you feeling satisfied and ready for your next adventure.

1 cup raw almonds
3/4 cup raw cashews
2/3 cup raw pumpkin seeds
1/3 cup raw sunflower seeds

2 tbsp unsweetened dried cranberries, chopped
2 tbsp vegan dark chocolate chips
sea salt for taste

Directions:
Chop any large ingredients if necessary to make everything about the same size. Give the dried fruit a light sprinkle of sea salt before you mix it in (it sticks better), or sprinkle the whole mix with salt if you prefer. Combine all ingredients in a bowl and enjoy! Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

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Staff Spotlight: Jasen Brisson, Physical Therapist

Jasen graduated from Nazareth College in Rochester, NY with a Masters in Physical Therapy. He has been working as a PT since 2006. Jasen began his career working in an Outpatient Hospital based system before moving to Raleigh.

Jasen has a variety of work experience including acute care, inpatient rehabilitation, and outpatient rehabilitation. He has spent the majority of his time in the outpatient rehabilitation setting, with a primary focus on orthopedic conditions, sports-related injuries, and neurological conditions.

In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his family, playing soccer, mountain biking, and hiking.

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