May is National Arthritis Awareness Month

may is arthritis awareness month

Arthritis Awareness

Spearheaded by the Arthritis Foundation, National Arthritis Awareness Month aims to make people more aware of arthritis and the issues involved. Every year, the month of May is recognized to motivate Americans to get up and moving, while raising funds for arthritis research, support and advocacy. Learn more about the facts and 4 common myths of arthritis.

Arthritis- The Facts

Did you know that arthritis is the most common cause of disability in the US today?

Here are a few astounding facts of Arthritis:

  • More than 40 million Americans have been diagnosed with Arthritis
  • There are more than 100 forms of this crippling disease
  • It affects an estimated 53 million adults and 300,000 children

The first steps in overcoming the challenges with arthritis are understanding the condition and knowing there are many resources to help.

View our Splints/Braces and products to help relieve your arthritis pain?  Click here

4 Common Myths About Arthritis

Here are 4 Common Myths to help dispel some of the most common misconceptions about arthritis.

Myth #1 – Arthritis Only Affects the Elderly

Arthritis does not discriminate- it can happen at any age. The most common type of arthritis is Osteoarthritis, a condition caused by wear and tear on the joints over time. Osteoarthritis is more prevalent in older adults, however other types of arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis caused by joint inflammation can happen at any age.  Juvenile arthritis, an autoimmune disease, occurs in children.

Myth #2 – You Should Avoid Exercise if You Have Arthritis

Exercise is crucial for people with arthritis. Regular exercise helps keep arthritis in check and diminish some of its worst symptoms. Exercise increases strength and flexibility, reduces joint pain, and helps combat fatigue.

What type of exercise you do depends on the type of arthritis and the specific symptoms you have. There are many exercise programs designed for arthritis patients that allow you to exercise effectively without damaging already painful joints. Whatever program you choose, check with your doctor, don’t overdo it, and let the instructor know if you’re having any difficulty.

Myth #3 – All Joint Pain is Arthritis

Having swollen, achy joints doesn’t necessarily mean you have arthritis. There are several other conditions that can cause joint pain such as tendonitis and bursitis, as well as other soft-tissue injuries. If you are experiencing joint pain, you should consult with your healthcare provider for a diagnosis and treatment.

Myth #4 – There is No Treatment for Arthritis

There are many things you can do to help ease the symptoms and pain of arthritis. Diet, exercise, natural remedies and medications can all help. Over the counter medications and prescription medications can help too. If joint pain or damage is so severe that medication isn’t working, surgery to replace joints or improve alignment may be recommended.

Oh My Arthritis is dedicated in helping support the cause and fight for those with arthritis– in hopes of finding better treatments and ultimately a cure!

Learn more about arthritis and how you can help at the

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http://www.arthritis.org/

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splints and braces to help relieve arthritis pain

Our blogs are educational in nature and are not intended as a substitute for medical advice. Because your condition is unique to you, it is recommended that you consult with your health care provider before attempting any medical or therapeutic treatments. We are always happy to answer questions about products mentioned in our blogs, however, we are unable to provide a diagnosis or medical advice.

One comment on “May is National Arthritis Awareness Month

  1. So informational and just what I have been searching for! I am a Psychiatric Emergency Room/ Psych Holding Unit RN and have held that position at several hospital’s locally. My RA has progressed to the point that I am no longer physically able to perform the frequent physical tasks that are necessary in my particular field of nursing. I am also 61 years old and have worked full-time (plus over time) since graduating as an RN in 1996. I ordered the entire splint set and am praying these will prevent further finger/hand immobility, deformity and pain. Wish me luck!!!

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