Five Arthritis Pain Myths (And One Truth)
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 Kleinpeter Physical Therapy, 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 Kleinpeter Physical Therapy. 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 throughout 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 Kleinpeter Physical Therapy can help you find the right exercise program to suit your needs.
Myth 6: Weather Changes Cause Arthritis Pain
Surprisingly, the 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 Kleinpeter Physical Therapy
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 – Come Back to PT!
Don’t let your progress stall—come back to Kleinpeter Physical Therapy and keep moving forward on your journey to recovery.
Schedule your next appointment today and let’s reach those goals together!
Healthy Recipe:
Eggplant Pizza Bites
- Olive oil spray
- 1 large eggplant unpeeled (1 ¼ lbs.)
- ½ teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ cup marinara sauce
Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with foil and spray it with olive oil. Slice the eggplant crosswise into ½-inch-thick rounds, yielding about 12 rounds. Place the eggplant rounds on the prepared baking sheet. Spray them with olive oil spray. Sprinkle with kosher salt, black pepper and garlic powder. Bake the eggplant rounds for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven, turn them over, spray with more olive oil, and bake for 10 more minutes. Remove the pan from the oven but leave the oven on. With a spoon, spread marinara sauce on each eggplant round. Top with shredded cheese. You can add more toppings at this point, such as pepperoni or olives. Return the pan to the oven. Bake just until the cheese is melted, about 5 minutes. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Farewell and Best Wishes to Andrew
As we say goodbye to Andrew Bradley, we reflect on the impact he has made during his four years as a Physical Therapy Technician at both of our locations. Andrew’s dedication and compassion have been evident in his work, and his positive presence has touched the lives of both patients and staff.
We’re proud to share that Andrew has been accepted into The University of St. Augustine’s Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program. He will soon begin his studies at their Austin, TX campus, taking the next step toward becoming a Physical Therapist.
While we will miss Andrew, we know he will excel in this new chapter of his life. Please join us in congratulating him and wishing him all the best as he embarks on this exciting journey!
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Staff Spotlight:
Conner Woods PT, DPT
We are excited to introduce Conner Woods, PT, DPT. Conner is a dedicated physical therapist passionate about helping patients achieve improved safety, function, and performance. He believes in treating not just the physical aspects of a condition but the whole person, emphasizing the importance of patient interaction in the healing process.
Conner earned his Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University and holds a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from the University of Southern Mississippi. He is also certified in Trigger Point Dry Needling, which he incorporates into his treatment plans to address orthopedic injuries and conditions.
Beyond the clinic, Conner enjoys outdoor activities like fishing and hunting, along with hobbies such as gardening, woodworking, cooking, and playing music. He is also an active member of his church community, where he continues to serve others with the same dedication he brings to his patients.
We are thrilled to have Conner on our team, where his expertise and compassionate care make a significant impact on our patients’ lives.
Our Patients Get Great Results
“These guys know their stuff! I have a condition that requires ongoing dry needling for maintenance and they know exactly what to do.“
– Janelle R.
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Our purpose at Kleinpeter Physical Therapy is to leave a greater impact on the community around us. In order to achieve our goal we want to change as many lives as possible as we become a beacon of positivity in our community.
