Arthritis

4. Arthritis is a minor physical inconvenience - It is common myth that arthritis exhibits only minor aches and pains. Commercials marketing simple, over-the- counter remedies, do not educate the public about the more aggressive forms of arthritis that require more complex treatments. Arthritis consists of much more than just minor aches and pains. 5. Joint replacements should be put off as long as possible - Total joint replacement surgery, called arthroplasty, has helped millions of people regain their independence and reduce pain. Needlessly, however, many people endure their pain for too long before considering this surgery. When medicines, exercise, and physical therapy no longer provide the needed relief, it is time to talk with a doctor about the pros and cons of joint replacement. No one should endure the pain and suffering of arthritis longer than necessary. 6. Current treatment can cure arthritis - Unfortunately, there is no scientific evidence that a cure for arthritis currently exists. However, physicians now know more than ever before about the best treatments for arthritis and how to slow down the progression of the disease. Advances in pain management, physical therapy and preventive care address the symptoms of arthritis while a cure for this disease is sought.
             Signs and symptoms of arthritis vary from person to person. Arthritis is usually thought of as a progressive disease, one that gets worse over time. Some people find that the condition is incapacitating, while others have very few symptoms. Joint pain, the primary symptom of the arthritis, is commonly brought on through activity; however, it could be present even when the body is at rest. Examples of other signs symptoms include limited joint movement but increased pain for the movement, fatigue, stiffness, and snapping at the joints. Some visible signs of arthritis are swelling, redness, warmth, bony growths at the joints, abnormal angles of the joints, and a loss of joint motion.