Myth: People with arthritis and other rheumatic diseases should seek herbal remedies and supplements for their treatment.

Truth: Despite new and more effective treatments, many arthritis patients live with chronic pain and disability. Some people turn to herbal medicines and other "natural" remedies in the belief that they are effective and safer than conventional medications. Unfortunately, most information available to the public about these remedies in the media and on the internet is misleading. Because the FDA is currently unable to regulate the quality of herbal remedies and supplements, or to verify their effectiveness or safety, the use of herbal remedies is not recommended.

Myth: My weight has no impact on my arthritis.

Truth: Some studies show that even a small amount of weight loss can help ease arthritis pain - particularly in the knees and hips. Treating rheumatic diseases is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Each condition requires a specific multidisciplinary treatment that may include diet, exercise, medication, and/or behavioral changes.

Myth: Cracking your knuckles can cause arthritis.

Truth: Some studies have shown that this habit can cause damage to the ligaments, but there is no evidence that knuckle cracking can lead to arthritis.

Myth: Arthritis is an inevitable part of life, so you just have to deal with it.

Truth: Aches and pains are an inevitable part of life. But, sometimes, pain in the joints, muscles or bones is severe or persists for more than a few days. At that point, you should see your physician to determine if a referral to a rheumatologist is appropriate.

Living your life with prolonged stiffness and pain isn't something you should deal with on your own. Rheumatologists and rheumatology health professionals are trained to help you not only find a way to live with arthritis and other rheumatic diseases, but many treatments offered by rheumatologists can even stop certain diseases and conditions in their tracks.

Make sure you see your rheumatologist to determine which treatments are best for you.

Rheumatologists are devoted to the care of the whole person. With their comprehensive knowledge of the immune system, rheumatologists understand how rheumatic diseases affect the entire body from head to toe. And, because rheumatic diseases are not only complex but chronic, rheumatologists see their patients frequently over much of their lifetimes. They help them to understand and manage a variety of health issues - from medications to physical therapy to surgery needs to mental health to pregnancy to common infections. Rheumatologists serve as lifelong care leaders for their patients.

Learn more about living well with rheumatic disease as well as rheumatologists and the role they play in health care.

SOURCE American College of Rheumatology