Friday, 30 May 2025

The 8 Best Bone-Boosting Foods for Arthritis

From msn.com/en-us

1. Fatty Fish: The Omega-3 Powerhouse
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Fatty fish like salmon, sardines, and mackerel have become a mainstay recommendation from rheumatologists in 2024, and for good reason. A large meta-analysis published in The Lancet Rheumatology in February 2024 confirmed that people with arthritis who consume at least two servings of fatty fish per week experience, on average, a 29% reduction in joint swelling and pain compared to those who do not.

This benefit is attributed to the high content of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to decrease the body’s production of inflammatory cytokines. New data from the Arthritis Foundation also highlights that vitamin D found in these fish is crucial for calcium absorption, directly impacting bone density in adults over 50.

In Norway, a government-funded study tracked 2,400 arthritis patients and found that those who included fatty fish in their weekly diets had higher bone mineral density scores on DEXA scans in 2024 than those who did not. It’s not just the omega-3s—these fish are loaded with protein, which helps preserve muscle mass essential for joint support.

Many arthritis clinics now offer dietician-led workshops on integrating fatty fish into meal planning, reflecting its increasing importance in arthritis management.

2. Leafy Greens: Calcium and Beyond
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Leafy greens such as kale, collard greens, and bok choy remain at the forefront of arthritis-friendly diets, thanks to their dense nutrient profile. According to the USDA’s 2024 National Nutrient Database, a single cup of cooked collard greens contains over 250 mg of calcium—more than a quarter of the recommended daily intake for adults.

But it’s not just about calcium. Recent research published in Arthritis & Rheumatology in March 2025 found that high vitamin K levels, present abundantly in these greens, are directly linked to increased bone formation markers in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Magnesium, also plentiful in dark greens, is another critical mineral for bone structure that is often lacking in Western diets. Dr. 
Carina Li, a rheumatologist at Cleveland Clinic, noted in a 2024 interview that patients who reported eating leafy greens daily had lower rates of bone loss as measured by annual bone density screenings. The fibre in these vegetables can also help control body weight, further reducing strain on arthritic joints.

3. Fortified Plant Milks: The Modern Calcium Solution
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With the decline in dairy consumption, plant-based milks fortified with calcium and vitamin D have surged in popularity, particularly among arthritis patients. Data from the Plant-Based Foods Association in 2024 shows a 34% increase in sales of fortified almond, soy, and oat milks over the past year.

A randomized controlled trial published in the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research in January 2025 demonstrated that participants who replaced cow’s milk with fortified soy milk maintained equivalent calcium and vitamin D levels after six months, with no significant difference in bone density. Many brands now offer plant milks containing up to 450 mg of calcium and 5 mcg of vitamin D per serving, helping to close nutrient gaps for those who avoid dairy.

In arthritis care, these beverages are especially valued for those with lactose intolerance or milk allergies—common in older adults. Registered dietitian Emily Vargas shared in a recent Arthritis Society webinar that “fortified plant milks have become a game-changer for patients who struggle to maintain bone health without dairy.” Always check the label, as calcium and vitamin D content can vary widely between brands.

4. Nuts and Seeds: Tiny Packages, Big Benefits
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Nuts and seeds are more than just a handy snack; they pack a powerful punch for bone health. Almonds, chia seeds, and flaxseeds are particularly rich in magnesium, a mineral that’s vital for converting vitamin D into its active form.

The European Journal of Clinical Nutrition reported a 2024 cohort study where adults who consumed a daily handful of mixed nuts had higher serum magnesium levels and, crucially, significantly lower markers of bone resorption compared to non-nut eaters. Walnuts and flaxseeds are also excellent plant sources of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a type of omega-3 that has shown anti-inflammatory effects in people with osteoarthritis.

Sunflower seeds are rich in vitamin E, which, according to a 2024 review in Current Rheumatology Reports, may help reduce oxidative stress in joint tissues. Recent retail data shows a 19% increase in nut and seed sales among adults aged 50+ in the past year, reflecting growing awareness of their bone-boosting potential.

Keep portion sizes moderate, as these foods are energy-dense.

5. Greek Yogurt: Protein and Probiotics Combined
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Greek yogurt stands out as a dual-action food for those managing arthritis and concerned about bone strength. According to a 2024 survey of 1,800 arthritis patients conducted by the National Osteoporosis Foundation, over 60% reported regularly consuming Greek yogurt for its high protein (up to 17 grams per serving) and live probiotic cultures.

Protein is essential for maintaining muscle mass, which helps support joints, while probiotics may play a role in modulating inflammation. A controlled trial published in April 2024 in Nutrition Journal showed that adults with osteoarthritis who consumed Greek yogurt daily for three months had a 12% improvement in bone turnover markers and experienced moderate reductions in joint pain.

The calcium and vitamin D content in fortified Greek yogurt varieties further strengthens bones, and brands have responded to demand by releasing lactose-free options. While dairy isn’t for everyone, Greek yogurt remains a staple recommendation in arthritis nutrition clinics for those who tolerate it.

6. Beans and Lentils: Plant-Based Protein with a Mineral Bonus
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Beans and lentils deliver a one-two punch for arthritis sufferers: they’re rich in both plant protein and bone-supporting minerals like magnesium, zinc, and potassium. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition published a multicenter study in October 2024 that found adults who ate legumes at least four times a week had a 20% lower risk of osteoporosis-related fractures compared to those who rarely ate beans.

Lentils, for example, provide nearly 18 grams of protein and 70 mg of magnesium per cooked cup, while black beans are an excellent source of both folate and potassium. Zinc is especially important for cartilage repair, and a 2025 study in Arthritis Care & Research reported that patients with higher dietary zinc had fewer symptoms of joint stiffness.

Beans and lentils also help regulate blood sugar, which is critical since diabetes can worsen arthritis outcomes. The push for plant-based diets in 2024 has made these foods more accessible, with supermarkets expanding their ranges of canned and dried options.

7. Tofu and Tempeh: The Soy Advantage
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Tofu and tempeh have earned their place in arthritis-friendly diets, not just for their plant-based protein but for their unique bone-protecting benefits. A major review in the International Journal of Rheumatic Diseases in March 2025 highlighted that soy isoflavones, naturally found in tofu and tempeh, have estrogen-like effects that may help slow bone loss in postmenopausal women.

The study tracked over 900 participants and found that those consuming at least four servings of soy products weekly had 13% higher bone mineral density than non-soy eaters. Tofu is typically set with calcium sulfate, so it contains up to 350 mg of calcium per 100-gram serving.

Tempeh, being a fermented soy product, offers probiotics in addition to protein and minerals, and new research in Gut Microbes (2024) found that fermented foods like tempeh can lower inflammatory markers in rheumatoid arthritis. The versatility of soy products has made them a staple in arthritis nutrition therapy, especially for those seeking alternatives to animal proteins.

8. Oranges and Citrus Fruits: The Vitamin C Connection
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Oranges, grapefruits, and other citrus fruits are not just for immune health—they play a direct role in collagen formation, which is essential for healthy cartilage and bones. The World Health Organization’s 2025 Nutrition Report states that daily vitamin C intake is associated with a 23% lower risk of osteoporotic fractures in adults over 60.

Collagen synthesis relies on vitamin C, and a 2024 study in Osteoporosis International found that arthritis patients with the highest blood vitamin C levels had significantly better cartilage integrity as measured by MRI. Oranges also provide potassium and small amounts of calcium, supporting overall bone mineralization.

Recent consumer studies show that orange consumption among adults aged 55+ has increased by 15% in the past year, likely due to growing awareness of its joint and bone benefits. Citrus fruits are easy to incorporate into breakfast or snacks, offering a refreshing and scientifically backed boost for anyone managing arthritis.

https://www.msn.com/en-us/health/other/the-8-best-bone-boosting-foods-for-arthritis/ss-AA1Fz4W5 

Thursday, 29 May 2025

Rheumatoid Arthritis: Treatment Advances Reduce Pain, Slow Progression

From yalemedicine.org/news

A Yale Medicine rheumatologist describes the therapies that help the most

While joint pain and swelling are common symptoms of more than 100 different forms of arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can damage more than a person’s joints.

Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease that is second only to the degenerative “wear-and-tear” disease of osteoarthritis, affects about 1.5 million people in the United States. When left untreated, rheumatoid arthritis can lead not only to chronic pain, but also disability and organ damage. Plus, it can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.

"We think of rheumatoid arthritis as a condition that primarily affects the joints, but it can affect virtually any organ, including a person’s skin, eyes, lungs, and heart," says Betty Hsiao, MD, a Yale Medicine rheumatologist. "Treatment is important so that people can maintain their mobility and their function by controlling inflammation—not only in their joints but also systemically so other organs are not affected."

Symptoms of this disease can be challenging to manage, but researchers have made progress in treating rheumatoid arthritis, Dr. Hsiao explains. There is currently no cure, but rheumatologists (physicians who treat musculoskeletal diseases and certain autoimmune conditions) now have medication options that can decrease or prevent the progression of disease.

For example, when a person is diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, a class of drugs called disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), which suppress the body's immune system to prevent inflammation, has long been the standard recommendation to slow progression and reduce symptoms.

Now, newer FDA-approved DMARDs known as Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, which target specific proteins in the body that lead to inflammation, are oral medications that are highly effective in slowing the damage rheumatoid arthritis causes in the body.

Other approaches are also being recommended to help manage the disease. The American College of Rheumatology created its first set of guidelines in 2022 for comprehensively managing rheumatoid arthritis with the addition of exercise, rehabilitation, and diet—alongside medication. The guidelines strongly encourage "consistent engagement in exercises," for example, and conditionally recommend other interventions, including physical therapy.

How does RA affect the body?



In healthy people, the immune system protects against illness by fighting off germs and other foreign substances that enter the body. But in those with rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy joint tissue, causing inflammation that can damage bones and organs.

Unlike other forms of arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis usually affects the same joints on both sides of the body. Typically, the condition attacks smaller joints first, such as those in the hands and feet.

"If someone is developing signs and symptoms of painful and swollen joints—particularly with prolonged stiffness in the morning or after periods of inactivity—along with fatigue, perhaps fever and just not feeling well, that would prompt an evaluation," Dr. Hsiao says.

If you are showing such early symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, discuss this with your primary care physician, who can refer you to a rheumatologist for an evaluation and possible treatment.

How is RA diagnosed?

There is no single test to detect rheumatoid arthritis, so rheumatologists use a combination of a person’s symptoms and history along with physical examinations, blood work, X-rays, MRIs, and ultrasounds to make a diagnosis.

Blood work can reveal certain proteins that attack healthy tissue, including rheumatoid factor and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies. Blood tests might also show inflammatory markers, such as elevated sedimentation rate and higher levels of C-reactive protein. Your doctor will take all these results into account. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to reduce symptoms.

Who is most at risk of developing RA?

Anyone can develop rheumatoid arthritis, but researchers have identified several factors that may increase the risk for the condition:

  • Genes: People with a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) with rheumatoid arthritis are more likely to develop the disease.
  • Smoking: Cigarette smoking can increase the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis, particularly in people with certain genes.
  • Age: People between ages 30 and 60 are more likely to develop the condition, but young-onset rheumatoid arthritis and elderly-onset rheumatoid arthritis can affect younger and older individuals.
  • Obesity: Obesity is associated with a higher risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis and having a worse treatment outcome.
  • Periodontitis: Researchers have identified gum disease as a possible risk factor for rheumatoid arthritis.

Which treatments do rheumatologists recommend?

If you’re diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, most rheumatologists begin treatment with a DMARD. These medications have been used for decades to treat the disease.

"Normally, we start with the conventional ones first," Dr. Hsiao says. "Methotrexate is really our gold standard as a starting medication for rheumatoid arthritis given its long track record of efficacy and safety." It is taken once a week in oral or injectable forms and often used as a stand-alone therapy as well as in combination with other DMARDs.

However, because DMARDs are immunosuppressants, they may make some people more susceptible to other infections. Your rheumatologist may suggest pausing the use of a DMARD if you come down with another illness, such as the flu or a cold. Along with DMARDs, doctors may also prescribe corticosteroids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce inflammation and pain. Unlike DMARDs, NSAIDs do not slow down the progression of the disease.

If traditional DMARDs aren’t effective, your doctor may suggest switching to newer alternatives such as biologic DMARDs or targeted synthetic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (tsDMARDs), including JAK inhibitors, which target more specific parts of the immune system. The most common side effects of biologic DMARDs and tsDMARDs are an increased risk of infections. Biologic DMARDs that are injected may carry a risk of injection-site reactions, and those administered intravenously may have a risk of infusion reactions. Typically, people who are on these medications need to have regular blood work to monitor for any abnormalities, such as liver problems or blood disorders.

"Sometimes, after initial options are tried and rendered ineffective for patients, it's not always clear which medications are the next best step, so that’s where shared decision-making is very important to elicit the patient's preferences as part of the treatment decision," explains Dr. Hsiao. Some people may prefer treatments that cost less, are easier to administer, or have fewer possible side effects, for example. "We also talk about other behavioural and lifestyle changes to optimize health," she says.

How can lifestyle changes help?

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is also critical for reducing rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. The American College of Rheumatology recommends four major types of exercise to reduce pain and disability: flexibility exercises (such as ankle circles, knee extensions, and hip rotations); strengthening exercises (such as resistance band squats, biceps curls, and chest presses); aerobic exercises (such as walking and bicycling); and body awareness exercises (such as yoga and tai chi), which help the body sense its own movement and location in space.

"We rely on our colleagues in physical and occupational therapy to help our patients get acquainted with some of the exercises that they might need to do," Dr. Hsiao says.

Maintaining a healthy diet rich in whole foods, such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and nuts and seeds, and quitting smoking can also help improve the quality of life of people with rheumatoid arthritis.

"Psychosocial interventions and stress relief are also important,” Dr. Hsiao adds. “So is having a solid social support system and engaging with your friends and family. Managing stress is critical, because it can also play a role in autoimmune diseases."

https://www.yalemedicine.org/news/rheumatoid-arthritis-treatment

Wednesday, 28 May 2025

Sore joints in the summertime? Drink more water

From novanthealth.org

Staying hydrated helps ward off arthritis pain during the hottest and most physically active time of year 

Changes in the weather can aggravate arthritis pain for people living with joint inflammation.

You might think you’re home free in the summer, but that’s not always the case. Even though swelling and stiffness are felt most during the winter, arthritis can flare up even in the hottest months. And while studies have not conclusively connected joint pain to the weather, the Arthritis Foundation finds that humidity and temperature do affect how our bodies feel overall.

Blocker_Edward_1356411599_Head_web
Dr. Edward Blocker

But arthritis — which affects about 60 million adults and 200,000 children in the U.S. — has less to do with climate and more with our level of physical activity, said orthopaedic surgeon Dr. Edward Blocker of Novant Health Orthopedics & Sports Medicine - Beaufort.

Nicer weather means the risk of injuries like falls and sprains goes up, especially for older adults. But when approached with care, regular exercise can reduce joint pain while strengthening your heart and helping you maintain a healthy weight.

One key to less pain? Drinking water, and lots of it.

“Because we sweat more when it’s hot and humid, hydrating helps to replenish fluids, lubricate the joints and fight inflammation while staying active,” Blocker said.

Here, he discusses how he helps patients prevent joint pain all year long.

Do people experience more arthritis pain when it’s hotter and more humid outside?

Usually it’s just the opposite. In the colder months, joints get stiffer than usual, but people are generally more active when it’s warmer outside, so that can accentuate joint pain in a different way.

The more active you are the better, because your joints are moving. But it’s important to be careful because humidity is a variable, and I think as the atmospheric pressure declines, some people seem to hurt more. When we sweat, we’re losing water, and dehydration can stiffen the joints.

What types of arthritis do you treat most often?

Every one of us gets some form of arthritis at some point in our lives. Think of your car’s tires: You put 75,000 miles on them, and that rubber is going to wear down. The same goes for wear-and-tear on your joints.

I mostly treat osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, which are both chronic. Osteoarthritis is most common in older adults and is a degenerative wear-and-tear of the cartilage, the cushion between the bones. As we age, our cartilage wears out and doesn’t have the ability to heal like other body tissues.

Your immune system is supposed to attack viruses and bacteria. But with rheumatoid arthritis, your immune system attacks the cartilage. The less cartilage, the greater the pain. Some people live with both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, and the latter can even affect kids.

Can cracking your knuckles cause problems down the road?

It could. When you pop your knuckle there’s a kind of suction phenomenon that happens. The joint of a finger knuckle is a rounded bone sitting inside of a little socket. There’s fluid in the joint, so when you crack your knuckles, it has the effect of a mini jackhammer. That can damage the cartilage, especially if you do it repeatedly. I had a bad habit of popping my big toes, and now I have terrible arthritis in those joints.

When is surgery necessary for arthritis, versus a shot or an over-the-counter remedy?

Usually by the time a patient sees an orthopaedist, they’re beyond taking an Advil every now and then. So the first line of treatment is activity modification, which may involve backing away from sports like running, and transitioning to lower-impact activities like walking, swimming or pickleball.

The next step might be over-the-counter or prescription anti-inflammatories, or a cortisone (steroid) shot to treat the inflammation and manage pain.

We’re born with hyaline cartilage, which wears out as we get older. And because we can’t make it grow back, sometimes that requires a knee replacement — and that’s the final option.

My philosophy is that your knee will tell you when it’s time. Sometimes an X-ray shows severe arthritis, but the patient is having only mild symptoms, so I won’t push for a knee replacement. I’ve never told anybody they need a knee replacement. It becomes self-evident, once you ask them what their life is like. And I believe the physician should listen to the patient.

https://www.novanthealth.org/healthy-headlines/sore-joints-in-the-summertime

Sunday, 25 May 2025

Walk this way: Valley surgeon weighs in on living with ankle arthritis

From fhtimes.com

By Steven Tocci, DPM | HonorHealth Orthopedics 

Ankle arthritis is more common than many folks realize. I see it every week in my practice, and I’ve watched how it can slow people down, causing pain, stiffness and making simple things like walking a real challenge. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says over 53 million adults in the U.S. are living with some form of arthritis. A good number of them are dealing specifically with problems in their ankles.

Ankle arthritis can progress for a few different reasons. Most commonly it is caused by past injuries — also known as post-traumatic arthritis. It can also be due to conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, chronic gouty arthritis or the wear-and-tear kind, like osteoarthritis.

Starting with conservative treatments

If you’re just starting to deal with ankle arthritis, know this: Surgery isn’t the first step. There are plenty of ways to ease your symptoms and improve your function without going under the knife.

Here’s what that can look like:

• Oral anti-inflammatories: Over-the-counter NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen can take the edge off the pain and calm down inflammation, but it’s best to take these under the guidance of your doctor to avoid any unwanted side effects. There are also prescription NSAIDs available if these do not improve symptoms.
• Cortisone injections: For those who can’t, or prefer not to take oral medications, a cortisone injection into the joint can bring significant relief. It’s a strong anti-inflammatory, and it does have long-term limitations; however, can drastically reduce pain and prolong potential surgery.
• Bracing: Sometimes, a little extra support goes a long way. An ankle brace can help stabilize the joint and cut down on pain. There are basic versions you can buy over the counter, or you might benefit from a custom brace that’s tailored to your foot and ankle.

Steven Tocci, DPM
Steven Tocci, DPM
Submitted photo
 If you’re just starting to deal with ankle arthritis, know this: Surgery isn’t the first step. There are plenty of ways to ease your symptoms and improve your function without going under the knife.”

When it’s time to consider surgery

If those conservative methods stop working, we start talking about surgical options. I’ve seen surgery give people their lives back — but it’s always a decision we make carefully and together.

• Ankle fusion (arthrodesis): This is a tried-and-true procedure. It involves removing the damaged cartilage and joining the bones so they don’t move anymore. Yes, you give up motion in that joint, but in return, you get stability and resolution of pain. Most people can walk comfortably again — and with little to no limp.
• Ankle replacement: This is a bit more complex. We take out the damaged joint and replace it with a prosthetic. The big benefit here is that you keep your ankle’s range of motion and preserve the surrounding joints. It’s not the right fit for everyone, but when it is, it can make a huge difference in staying active and mobile.

You’re not alone in this

Living with ankle arthritis can feel frustrating. Some days are harder than others. But I want to stress this — there are effective treatments out there. I’ve walked this journey with many patients, and I’ve seen how the right care can lead to a better, more comfortable life.

Managing arthritis is a process. Some steps are slow, some feel like setbacks — but each one is part of the path toward better health. Keep asking questions. Keep moving. And above all, keep hope close. You don’t have to face this alone, and you don’t have to give up doing what you love.

https://www.fhtimes.com/stories/walk-this-way-valley-surgeon-weighs-in-on-living-with-ankle-arthritis,586167

Saturday, 24 May 2025

Health and Wellness: Top 5 arthritis myths that keep people in pain

From eu.seacoastonline.com 

If you or someone you love is living with arthritis — then you already know how frustrating it can be. Daily tasks become harder, favourite activities fall by the wayside, and you may start to wonder: “Will things ever get better?” 

Even worse, many people living with arthritis fall victim to misguided advice. Let’s look at five of the most common myths about arthritis management — and shed some light on what you can actually do instead.

Myth 1: “There’s nothing you can do — it’s just part of getting older.” 

This is one of the biggest and most damaging myths of all. 

While it’s true that arthritis becomes more common as you get older — and it’s considered a normal part of aging — it doesn’t mean you have to live with chronic pain or disability. In fact, many people with visible (even advanced) arthritis on X-rays and MRIs are living active, healthy lives with minimal to no pain at all. 

Research supports this. A 2015 study published in Arthritis & Rheumatology found that more than 30% of adults over 60 had radiographic evidence of knee osteoarthritis — but only a portion of them had symptoms. In other words, just because your joints show signs of “wear and tear” doesn’t mean you’re doomed to pain. 

The real issue is how you move — and how you use your joints. Strategic exercise, strength training, and natural therapies can drastically improve your mobility and reduce pain — regardless of your age or what your imaging says. 

Doing nothing, on the other hand, is one of the worst things you can do. 

Myth #2: “You should rest and avoid activity to protect your joints.” 

If your joints hurt, don’t move them — right? That might make sense if you have an injury that requires an initial rest and healing phase. But that’s not the case with arthritis. When you avoid movement in an arthritic joint, you actually worsen your symptoms. 

Too much rest leads to stiff joints, weakened muscles, and poor circulation — all of which contribute to more pain and less function over time. Movement helps lubricate joints, strengthen muscles, and prevent further degeneration. 

I’m not sure why this myth is still so common — especially when just about every major orthopaedic organization (including the CDC and the Arthritis Foundation) agrees that regular, low-impact physical activity is one of the best things you can do for arthritis. 

The key is doing the right kind of movement. So if you're struggling, work with an expert who can help you figure out the proper, targeted activity your body needs. But whatever you do — don’t fall for this myth. 

Myth #3: “If your joint is bone-on-bone, surgery is the only option.” 

Hearing the phrase “bone-on-bone” from your doctor can feel like a death sentence for your joint. And the typical recommendation? Joint replacement surgery. 

But what if I told you that “bone-on-bone” isn’t always the actual reason for your pain — and that you’ve got options beyond a major procedure like surgery? 

The first thing to understand is that what shows up on your imaging (like X-rays and MRIs) doesn’t always match up with your symptoms. A 2018 study in BMJ Open found that nearly half of people with severe osteoarthritis on imaging had little to no pain. And many people with significant joint pain showed only mild arthritic changes on their images. 

Translation? “Bone-on-bone” isn’t necessarily the root cause of your problem. I’ve seen many people with this diagnosis successfully avoid major surgery and keep their original parts far longer than they thought possible. 

When faced with this kind of diagnosis, the best thing you can do is pause — and explore your options. Surgery will always be there if you need it. But don’t rush into it or assume it’s your only option. 

Myth #4: “Cortisone shots and medications are the best way to manage arthritis.” 

Cortisone shots may provide short-term pain relief for arthritis — but they don’t actually fix anything. Worse, repeated cortisone injections have been shown to damage cartilage and accelerate joint degeneration over time. 

One study published in JAMA (2017) showed that patients receiving cortisone injections for knee arthritis had worse cartilage loss at two-year follow-up than those who received a saline placebo — despite experiencing no significant difference in pain relief. 

NSAIDs (like Advil) and prescription pain medications can also help dull pain, but they come with side effects — and, just like cortisone, do nothing to address the root cause of your symptoms. 

If you're relying on medication or repeated cortisone shots just to get through the day — or to delay surgery — it’s time to explore options that promote natural healing instead of just masking symptoms. 

Shockwave Therapy and EMTT are two non-invasive regenerative therapies that do exactly that. These cutting-edge technologies enhance your body’s natural healing processes by targeting inflammation and tissue damage at the cellular level. And while more research is still needed, promising clinical evidence suggests these therapies may actually help reverse — or significantly delay — the progression of arthritis. 

Do your own research — and be open to natural, forward-thinking treatment options that support your long-term joint health. 

Myth #5: “Arthritis means you’ll never get back to the activities you love.”

This is one of the most heartbreaking myths — and it’s simply not true. 

I’ve worked with countless clients who believed their days of hiking, gardening, traveling, or playing with grandkids were behind them — only to regain full function and freedom after following a personalized treatment plan. 

And while surgery sometimes is the best option — especially if you’ve waited until your arthritis has become advanced — there’s a lot you can do to improve your outcome. Working with a specialist to build strength and prescribe targeted movement can make recovery faster and easier. 

Plus, emerging research shows that using regenerative therapies like Shockwave and EMTT both before and after surgery may help accelerate healing and improve long-term outcomes. 

Managing arthritis is absolutely possible when you take a natural, proactive, and personalized approach. You just need the right plan — and the right team to guide you. 

Final thoughts

Arthritis is real — but don’t let myths and outdated advice keep you stuck. If you're not sure where to start — or feel like you've already tried everything — speak with someone who specializes in mechanical pain and natural joint care. Often, the most effective solutions are the ones no one has told you about yet. 

Dr. Carrie Jose, Physical Therapy Specialist and Mechanical Pain Expert, owns CJ Physical Therapy & Pilates in Portsmouth. To get in touch, or request a seat in her upcoming Masterclass: “The Truth About Arthritis – Why Pills, Rest, and Surgery Aren’t Your Only Options.” - visit www.cjphysicaltherapy.com 

https://eu.seacoastonline.com/story/lifestyle/health-fitness/2025/05/23/health-and-wellness-top-5-arthritis-myths-that-keep-people-in-pain-carrie-jose/83812990007/