As May is the National awareness month for Arthritis, Pro Medical SA would like to ensure that all patients are educated correctly on the condition. Arthritis is often a misunderstood disease with numerous myths surrounding it, such as:
Myth #1: Arthritis is just minor aches and pains associated with getting older.
Fact: Arthritis is actually a complex family of musculoskeletal disorders consisting of more than 100 different diseases or conditions that can affect people of all ages. Arthritis-related problems include:
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Pain
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Stiffness
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Inflammation
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Damage to joint cartilage and surrounding structures.
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Instability and deformities that can interfere with the most basic daily tasks
Myth #2: Arthritis is not a serious health problem.
Fact: Arthritis is the major cause of disability and chronic pain in Australia. With 3.85million Australians affected at a cost to our economy of more than $23.9 billion each year in medical care.
Myth #3: People with arthritis should avoid exercising.
Fact: Research has found that regular exercise is one of the most effective treatments for arthritis. Before you start to exercise it is important to ask your Doctor or Exercise Physiologist to help you develop a suitable program.
Myth #4: Not much can be done for arthritis.
Fact: Relief through various medications is available.
Speak to your Doctor at Pro Medical SA on how you can manage your arthritis or prevent the onset of the disease.