Arthritis is a common term often used to describe joint pain. But you’d be surprised to know that it doesn’t refer to one single disease. Arthritis is, in fact, an umbrella term used to describe different types of painful conditions, all of which affects the joints. Typical symptoms of the disease include waking up with painful joints; aching hand, hip, knee and lower back area; and stiff limbs. Although not a fatal condition, arthritis can be severely debilitating and can affect the sufferer’s quality of life. World Arthritis Day is observed every year on October 12 to raise awareness about the painful condition and to bring attention to the problems faced by patients. On World Arthritis Day 2019, here are some painful facts about this inflammatory condition. Important Facts About Your Joints You Didn't Know About.

  • The word arthritis literally means “inflamed joints” in Greek and medical Latin. The word was used for the first time in the 1540s, according to Etymonline.com.

  • Arthritis refers to 120 types of conditions, all of which are marked by pain, swelling and stiffness of the joints.

  • Osteoarthritis is the commonest form of arthritis.

  • Women are more at risk than men. 5 Myths About Arthritis Debunked By An Expert.

  • Sometimes, your own immune system attacks your joints mistaking it for an infection, causing inflammatory arthritis.

  • Although associated with the elderly, arthritis can also affect children. According to CDC, one in every 250 children suffer from some type of arthritis.

  • Arthritis is a joint condition. But the lack of mobility caused by the disease can lead to lifestyle diseases like cardiovascular problems, diabetes and high blood pressure.

  • Maintaining body weight can ease the pressure on joints and can reduce the risk of knee osteoarthritis.

  • People believe that popping knuckles cause arthritis. But it’s only a myth. Cracking joints or knuckles do not lead to arthritis.

  • Diet plays a big role in abating arthritis symptoms. Anti-inflammatory foods like fish, olive oil, whole grains and vegetables can reduce inflammation of the joints.

  • Exercise may be difficult for people suffering from arthritis, but it helps. Regular physical exercise like aerobics and stretching can, in fact, help mobility.

  • The emotional effect of arthritis can sometimes go beyond physical pain. People suffering from chronic pain may be more angry, resentful and depressed because of the disease.

  • Arthritis can severely limit the movements of the person, making them depend on caregivers for day-to-day activities. But early diagnosis and treatment can prevent some of the most serious complications of the disease.

World over, Arthritis Day 2019 is celebrated on Saturday, October 12. The day intends to create a better understanding of the misunderstood disease and facilitate early treatment and diagnosis.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 12, 2019 11:00 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).