Despite the fact that an estimated 50 million people in America have some form of arthritis, many - including those diagnosed with it - hold certain beliefs about arthritis that experts argue are not true.

Misconceptions about age-limitations on arthritis and homemade dietary cures are some of the most common ones, though there're many more. The following are some misconceptions and truths about arthritis that your Riverside arthritis doctor can verify for you:

Misconception #1: All joint pain is caused by arthritis

There are many conditions that cause joint pain, including arthritis. The others include bursitis and other soft-tissue injuries, tendonitis, celiac disease, and many more. You should visit a qualified Riverside arthritis doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Misconception #2: Arthritis is caused by stress, unhealthy eating, and excess weight gain

One common characteristic among all autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA), Crohn's disease, Psoriatic arthritis (PA), etc. is that no one knows exactly why some people get it and others don't. That said, these conditions are certainly not caused by any single lifestyle factor. So, things like stress management, losing weight, or changing your diet will not cure or even reduce the risk of arthritis.

Misconception #3: Arthritis affects only/mostly the elderly

Arthritis can occur at any age: one year old, two years old, seniors over 90 years old, and anyone in between. Data from the CDC suggests that two-thirds of people living with arthritis are below 65 years. Additionally, a certain research revealed that it affects 1 in every 250 children. But since there are so many conditions categorized under arthritis, there are some that are more common among older adults, such as osteoarthritis, while others like RA and PA can happen at any age.

Misconception #4: Damage and disability are inevitable with arthritis even

A lot of progress has been made over the last few decades, increasing the understanding of arthritis, its progression, and treatment. A while back, arthritis was associated with progressive disability, but this is not the case for most patients today.

The development of newer biologics, such as monoclonal antibodies or TNF-inhibitors, and disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) has allowed arthritis doctors to customize treatment combinations that address individual cases of arthritis to slow down and prevent joint damage, and prevent disease complications. So, more patients with arthritis are able to lead full and normal lives owing to the advances in treatment.

Misconception #5: Arthritis only involves joint-related pain and damage

Although the obvious symptoms of arthritis include pain and damage to the joints and associated bones and cartilage, there are many other indicators of the disease. Arthritis is known to affect the cardiovascular system, from the heart and lungs to all blood vessels throughout the body. It is important that people diagnosed with arthritis be aware of all the symptoms of the disease so they can manage it better, even when in remission and not experiencing any pain.

Unless treated aggressively, arthritis can quickly cause damage to your bones and cartilage; increase the risk of systemic complications including cardiovascular and lung disease; affect your ability to work; and increase your risk of death. So, get your facts right about arthritis from your Riverside arthritis doctor to continue enjoying a normal and fully functional life.