Osteoarthritis is often described as a natural consequence of ageing or as a joint that gradually becomes “worn out”. However, osteoarthritis is much more complex than simple wear and tear.
Here are 7 common misconceptions about osteoarthritis and what we actually know about it.
❌ Myth 1: “Osteoarthritis is simply wear and tear.”
Osteoarthritis is not just about cartilage deterioration. It is a condition that involves the entire joint, including the cartilage, underlying bone, synovium and surrounding tissues.
❌ Myth 2: “The worse my X-ray looks, the more pain I should have.”
Not necessarily. The severity of changes seen on medical imaging does not always correspond to the intensity of pain or symptoms. Some people may have significant changes on an X-ray with relatively few symptoms, while others may experience considerable pain despite limited structural changes.
❌ Myth 3: “If I have osteoarthritis, I should avoid exercise.”
Quite the opposite. Physical activity and appropriately adapted exercise are an important part of osteoarthritis management. Exercise can help maintain mobility, strength and physical function, while also helping people remain active in their daily lives.
❌ Myth 4: “If I am in pain, I must be damaging my joint further.”
Pain does not always mean that the joint is being damaged further. Pain is a complex experience influenced by multiple factors, including the tissues involved, the nervous system, previous experiences, sleep, stress and physical activity.
❌ Myth 5: “Osteoarthritis only affects older people.”
Age is an important risk factor, but it is not the only one. Osteoarthritis can also affect younger adults, particularly when other risk factors are present, such as previous joint injury, certain biomechanical factors or genetic predisposition.
❌ Myth 6: “My osteoarthritis will inevitably get worse.”
Not necessarily. The course of osteoarthritis varies considerably from person to person. Symptoms may fluctuate over time, and an X-ray alone cannot predict exactly how an individual's condition will progress.
❌ Myth 7: “There is nothing I can do about osteoarthritis.”
There are several ways to help manage osteoarthritis. Depending on the individual, these may include physical activity, exercise, education, lifestyle changes and appropriate healthcare support.
The aim is not simply to focus on what an X-ray looks like, but to help people move, function and live as well as possible.
Osteoarthritis is much more complex than the idea of a simply “worn-out” joint.
🔎 Want to learn more about osteoarthritis?
Our full article explores what the scientific evidence actually tells us about these 7 common myths, the relationship between pain and medical imaging, the role of exercise and physical activity, and the different approaches that may help people living with osteoarthritis.
If you are experiencing joint pain or reduced mobility, an individual assessment can help determine which factors may be contributing to your symptoms and whether chiropractic care may be appropriate as part of your overall management.