Common arthritis myths have the potential to do harm to those actually living with this trying disease.

Arthritis is a collection of over 100 different diseases all with varying symptoms and when common arthritis myths and misconceptions abound; it often makes it difficult for those suffering with this disease to get the attention and even understanding, particularly from their family and friends that they really need while dealing with this lifestyle challenging disease.

One of the most common arthritis myths is that arthritis is a disease that only affects the elderly.

Only older people get arthritis? This is an absolutely, positively incorrect. Arthritis affects those of all ages including the very young, the very old and all ages in between.

Arthritis is simply the aches and pains that everyone gets as they get older.

So basically it's something that we all have to learn to live with and something that we all can expect to deal with at some point in our lives. Again, this is a common arthritis myth. Don't buy into it.

Another common arthritis myth is that it really is not that serious of a health issue. Another myth busted!

Arthritis is a major cause of work disability in the workforce today.

When you take the combination of all arthritis and rheumatic diseases those conditions make up the most common chronic health problem in the United States today.

Some estimates indicate that the cost associated with arthritis total more than $65 billion each and every year. Seems like a pretty serious health issue!

All arthritis is the same.

Wrong again!

There are more than 100 varieties of arthritis all which deserve individualized attention and care.

The different types of arthritis also have varying prognosis and treatment plans. All arthritis diagnoses are most certainly not the same.

Some arthritis is a direct result of trauma to the joint with arthritis developing in the subsequent years following the initial injury. Some arthritis is thought to be genetic.

Common arthritis myths still abound but you must take the time to dispel the myths from the truth if you are going to get the best arthritis care around.