4 Arthritis Myths for National Arthritis Awareness Month

Joe Montana has arthritis. Yes, former professional athletes can have it, and indeed for Montana, years of playing impact-heavy football substantially damaged his joints, forcing him reevaluate his lifestyle and get serious about his joint issues.

The month of May is National Arthritis Awareness Month, an effort to spread the word about joint health, prevention, and treatment. It’s a condition that affects millions of Americans, both young and old.

And in fact, many athletes are arthritis prone, says Montana. But that doesn’t mean they know it. “As athletes, you might have a little arthritis in your shoulder or a little in your knee,” he said. “If I don’t have a lot, I’m still going to go out.”

Don’t ignore those aches, pains, or stiffness in your joints. Yes, there are temporary causes–and solutions–for these issues, but it can also be a sign of arthritis. Arthritis is a condition that impacts the mobility of your joints and can cause pain and disability. Montana went through multiple knee surgeries and had aches in his hands, shoulders, elbows, and even his neck.
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