Bone and joint health are essential to our overall well-being, yet many of us still believe in long-standing myths that can prevent effective care and recovery. Misconceptions about orthopaedic health may delay treatment, reduce motivation for preventive habits, or encourage invasive options when natural ones are available.
Let’s explore some of the most common myths and the facts that can help you make informed choices for stronger bones, healthier joints, and pain-free life.
Myth 1: Bones Do Not Change Once They Are Fully Formed
Fact: Bones are living tissues that constantly rebuild and remodel themselves throughout life. Even after we reach adulthood, old bone tissue is replaced by new tissue through a process called bone remodelling. This is especially important for maintaining bone strength, adapting to physical demands, and healing after injury. With proper nutrition, exercise, and care, bones can remain strong well into old age.
Myth 2: Arthritis Only Happens to Older People
Fact: While arthritis is more common with age, it can affect people of all ages including children and young adults. Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and juvenile arthritis are autoimmune disorders that can appear early in life. Early diagnosis and management are crucial, no matter the age, to prevent joint damage and maintain mobility.
Myth 3: Physical Activity Has No Impact on Bone Health
Fact: Weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening activities are essential for healthy bones. Regular physical activity helps maintain bone density, supports joint flexibility, and reduces the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Walking, strength training, yoga, and even dancing all encourage bone growth and resilience.
Myth 4: Joint Discomfort is an Inevitable Aspect of Ageing
Fact: While joint stiffness can increase with age due to wear and tear, it is not inevitable. Joint pain is often a sign of an underlying issue like inflammation, muscle weakness, or poor posture, that can be addressed. With proper care, exercise, and diet, many older adults enjoy active, pain-free lifestyles.
Myth 5: Only Women Are Affected by Osteoporosis
Fact: Osteoporosis is more common in women, especially post-menopause due to lower estrogen levels. However, men are also at risk, especially with age, poor diet, smoking, or certain medications. Men often get diagnosed later making prevention and early detection equally crucial for both genders.
Myth 6: Cracking Joints Causes Arthritis
Fact: The popping or cracking sound you hear when cracking your knuckles or joints is usually caused by gas bubbles releasing in the joint fluid. There is no scientific proof that arthritis and joint cracking are related. However, excessive or aggressive joint cracking may irritate soft tissues, so moderation is key.
Myth 7: When Your Bones Weaken, You Can Feel It
Fact: Bone loss is a “silent” condition. Osteoporosis often goes unnoticed until a fracture occurs. You can’t feel your bones getting weaker, which is why preventive care is critical. Bone density scans and regular checkups are essential, especially after age 50 or with a family history of bone disease.
Myth 8: Bed Rest Heals Back Pain
Fact: While short-term rest may be needed in acute cases, prolonged bed rest can actually worsen back pain and delay recovery. Gentle movement, walking, and stretching help increase circulation, reduce stiffness, and improve spinal strength. Rest should be balanced with safe, guided activity.
Myth 9: Spine Issues are Worsened by Exercise
Fact: Not all exercises are bad for the spine. In fact, the right kind of exercise can greatly improve spinal health. Activities that focus on core strength, posture, and flexibility help reduce pressure on the spine, improve alignment, and ease pain. Of course, high-impact activities or incorrect forms can aggravate issues, which is why guided, personalised exercise is best.
Myth 10: Surgery is the Only Solution for Disc Problems
Fact: Surgery is not the only or even the first option for disc issues like herniation or degeneration. Non-surgical treatments such as Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Treatment, posture correction, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory care can help relieve pressure, support healing, and restore mobility. Many patients experience significant relief without ever needing surgery.
About ANSSI:
ANSSI Wellness focuses on improving the quality of life for patients suffering from spinal issues, aiming to provide relief where other conventional treatments have failed. Through advanced non-surgical spinal decompression treatment, ANSSI is committed to helping patients avoid surgery and recover in a safe, effective, and compassionate environment.
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