Condition behind fatigue and pain affecting ten million people is surrounded by these nine myths

manchestereveningnews.co.uk:

It's a common misconception that arthritis only affects the elderly. But try telling that to the parents of toddlers impacted by the agonising condition, or the 20-somethings living with it.

It's just one of several myths associated with arthritis, which affects around 10 million people in the UK. "One in six people live with the pain, fatigue, and disability arthritis can cause," says Deborah Alsina, chief executive at the arthritis support charity Versus Arthritis. "The impact can be huge, affecting the ability to work, care for family, move free from pain and live independently.

There are many misconceptions when it comes to understanding arthritis, but by shining a light on the reality of living with arthritis day in, day out, we can help grow understanding and inspire people to take action." Read more: The terrifying illness that kills five Brits an HOUR and the red flag symptoms Read more: Fears over 'vape tongue' as government gears up to ban disposable vapes Dr Amara Ezeonyeji, consultant rheumatologist from The Lister Hospital in London adds: "Arthritis is a general term that refers to a group of over 100 different types of inflammatory joint diseases that affect the musculoskeletal system.

The most common symptom of arthritis is joint pain, but it can also cause stiffness, swelling, and decreased joint mobility.” She says the most common form of arthritis is osteoarthritis (OA), often associated with wear and tear of the joints.