Common arthritis myths… busted

With the news that 25,000 rheumatoid arthritis patients are to benefit from new drugs approved for use on the NHS, Michele O’Connor sorts the facts from fiction when it comes to this common condition

MYTH: Only older adults develop arthritis

TRUTH: Absolutely not, says Professor of Rheumatology Anisur Rahman, spokesperson for Versus Arthritis (versusarthritis.org).

“There are many different types of arthritis. And while the most common type is osteoarthritis, which is caused by wear and tear and is more common as we get older, rheumatoid arthritis can occur at any age because it’s an autoimmune disease.”

It has nothing to do with your age – autoimmune types of arthritis can even occur in children.

MYTH:

If your joints hurt, it’s probably arthritis

TRUTH: Twinges and aches can often lead older people to self-diagnose arthritis.

“But there are many reasons why your joints might hurt,” explains Prof Rahman. “In fact, it’s far more likely that any discomfort is due to a strain or injury to the soft tissue, meaning muscles, ligaments or tendons surrounding the joint.”

If the area is hot, red and swollen and the pain remains constant over a number of weeks, see your GP for investigations.

“Although even persistent pain doesn’t necessarily mean you have arthritis,” he adds.

MYTH:

Tomatoes make your symptoms worse

TRUTH: Some people believe that cutting out vegetables from the nightshade family (such as tomatoes, potatoes, chilli, peppers and aubergines) and citrus fruits will help them avoid flare-ups. The school of thought is that solanine – an alkaloid compound naturally produced in various plants – contributes to inflammation and pain in arthritis. “There’s no good evidence to support this,” says Prof Rahman, explaining that these foods are rich in nutrients so shouldn’t just be eliminated from your diet. Interestingly, solanine is also found in blueberries, apples, cherries, okra and artichokes, which aren’t included in anecdotal reports of adverse effects.

MYTH:

Wearing a copper bracelet can provide relief

If the joint is warm and swollen, ice is better, but if sore, heat may help

TRUTH: Although many people with arthritis wear copper bracelets there’s no scientific evidence to support doing so.

“It’s hard to see how this could work,” says Prof Rahman. But he acknowledges that some patients do feel better when wearing them, adding: “It could be due to the placebo effect.

“Alternatively, it may be that, just like when wearing masks due to

Covid, wearers are simply more aware and careful. While there’s no biological evidence these work, they are harmless, inexpensive and there are no side effects.”

MYTH: Heat is better than ice for sore joints

TRUTH: “Generally speaking, if the joint is warm and swollen, ice is better,” says Prof Rahman, who likens this action to using a cold flannel if you have a fever. But if the joint is simply sore, it’s a matter of personal preference.

Applying heat such as electric blankets, hand warmers, heating pads or hot packs, can provide significant relief.

And capsaicin – the substance that gives chillies their heat – is the active ingredient in gels, creams and plasters aimed at joint pain.

“But it’s important to get a medical opinion if the joint is hot, swollen and inflamed,” he adds.

MYTH: Weather changes make arthritis worse

TRUTH: Many people are convinced that cold, wet weather exacerbates symptoms of arthritis while others claim that UV light has an effect.

Again, says Prof Rahman, there’s no clear, scientific evidence to support this. “Most people simply feel worse in cold, damp weather,” he reasons.

Interestingly, when US researchers asked people with arthritis to keep pain diaries – and separately monitored the weather – they did discover a possible association.

But at the moment we simply don’t know whether there is a direct cause.

MYTH: Glucosamine can cure it

TRUTH: Found naturally in the body, glucosamine plays an important role in making essential building blocks of the joints, including the ligaments, tendons, and cartilage. And, while there’s no reason to take a glucosamine supplement if you have rheumatoid arthritis, many people with osteoarthritis swear by it.

“There’s no medical proof that it helps manage symptoms – with clinical trials showing supplements are no more effective than a placebo,” explains Prof Rahman.

“But I’ve met many people who say it does make them feel better. And, unlike anti-inflammatory medication, it doesn’t have side effects, so I have no problem with people trying it.”

If you’re allergic to shellfish, take the shellfish-free variety and be cautious if you have diabetes as it can affect blood sugar.

Try Healthspan Glucosamine Sulphate 2KCl 1000mg, £15.95 for 320 tablets, healthspan.co.uk

MYTH: You can’t prevent arthritis

TRUTH: While there is nothing you can do to prevent rheumatoid arthritis, there are lifestyle measures you can take to reduce your risk of developing osteoarthritis.

These same measures can protect against all ageing conditions, such as heart disease.

“Maintain a healthy weight to avoid putting pressure on your joints and remain fit and active as strong muscles help support joints,” Prof Rahman advises.

MYTH: Exercise will make arthritis worse

TRUTH: While it’s natural to want to rest and avoid strenuous activities when you are in pain, exercise can actually help to reduce discomfort and stiffness.

Regular activity helps to build muscle, strengthen the joints, improve flexibility and joint mobility – and also boosts your mood.

Low-impact exercise, such as swimming and walking, are good options. And don’t forget incidental exercise like stair-climbing, gardening and housework. If you’re struggling, a physiotherapist can advise on exercise that will suit you.