Joint Myths Debunked

Joint pain is a common concern for many people, especially as they age or engage in regular physical activity. There are numerous myths surrounding joint health, some of which can be misleading and even harmful. In this article, we'll debunk four popular myths about joint pain, targeting both men's and women's health.

Myth 1: Running Is Bad for Your Knees

Contrary to popular belief, running may not be as damaging to your knees as once thought. A systematic review and meta-analysis found very low certainty evidence that running immediately decreases the thickness, volume, and relaxation times of patellofemoral and tibiofemoral cartilage. Another study found no association between cumulative running history and the risk for arthritis.

Myth 2: No Pain, No Gain:

The idea that you should "push through the pain" during exercise is outdated and dangerous. Pain is your body's way of signaling that something is wrong. Ignoring this signal can lead to severe injuries or more complications further down the line.

Myth 3: Glucosamine and Chondroitin Supplements Will Fix Your Joints

While these supplements are popular for treating joint pain, scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness is mixed. They are generally considered safe and in some studies, they have been shown to reduce joint pain as effectively as over the counter pain relief. If you try Glucosamine and Chondroitin Supplements, you should evaluate your pain after a few months and see if you feel an improvement.

Myth 4: Joint Pain Is Inevitable as You Age

While it's true that the risk of experiencing joint pain increases with age, it's not a guaranteed outcome. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and proper personal care routine can go a long way in preserving joint health.

Conclusion

Don't let these myths deter you from maintaining an active lifestyle or seeking appropriate treatment for joint pain. Always consult with healthcare professionals for personalised advice.

Sources

Is running good or bad for your knees? A systematic review and meta-analysis of cartilage morphology and composition changes in the tibiofemoral and patellofemoral joints.

Does Running Increase the Risk of Hip and Knee Arthritis? A Survey of 3804 Marathon Runners.

Footnotes

Is running good or bad for your knees? A systematic review and meta-analysis of cartilage morphology and composition changes in the tibiofemoral and patellofemoral joints. Published on 2022-11-01.

Does Running Increase the Risk of Hip and Knee Arthritis? A Survey of 3804 Marathon Runners. Published on 2023-08-09.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29465368/