Arthritis is a common condition affecting about 20% of the US population. Despite this fact — or perhaps because of it — myths and misconceptions surrounding arthritis abound. Unfortunately, many of these myths can contribute to more pain and a decreased quality of life for people struggling with the condition.
At Professional Care Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation, we want to help dispel some of these myths. By understanding the intricacies of arthritis, you can better manage your symptoms and live a full, active life.
Keep reading to find out some surprising facts about arthritis. And if you’d like to learn more about the role of physical and occupational therapy in arthritis management, call our clinic to schedule an appointment today!
Myth 1: There’s Only One Type of Arthritis
We often talk about arthritis as if it’s one condition, but the word actually refers to over 100 distinct conditions, all of which cause inflammation in the joints. The most common type of arthritis worldwide is osteoarthritis, a degenerative form primarily affecting older people. Because it’s so common, people sometimes use “arthritis” and “osteoarthritis” interchangeably, but they are two distinct terms.
It’s important to recognize the different types of arthritis because they can cause slightly different symptoms and complications. For example, rheumatoid arthritis (the second most common form of arthritis) is an autoimmune condition that can cause fatigue and fever alongside painful joints. It’s also more likely to affect the small joints in your hands and wrists, which means you might benefit more from coworking with a certified hand therapist for management.
Myth 2: All Joint Pain is Some Type of Arthritis
Actually, there are many reasons why someone might experience joint pain. Overuse injuries, ligament tears, and bursitis can all trigger pain and restricted mobility in your joints.
If you’re struggling with persistent pain in a joint, your best bet is to schedule an appointment at Professional Care, where our team will perform a comprehensive assessment of your symptoms and movement patterns. Our physical therapists can help you better understand joint pain in your lower body, while our occupational and certified hand therapists can help you navigate pain in your hands, wrists, or shoulders.
Myth 3: Arthritis Pain is a Normal Part of Aging
Because the most common form of arthritis primarily affects older people, many assume that arthritis pain is an inevitable part of growing older. In reality, 53% of adults aged 65 or older haven’t been diagnosed with arthritis. Even among people 80 or older, around 43% don’t have a diagnosis.
Age is certainly connected to arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, but you have options for preventing its development. Furthermore, developing arthritis doesn’t necessarily mean you have to suffer.
Myth 4: There’s Nothing You Can Do About Arthritis Pain
Along with Myth #5, this is one of the biggest myths out there. While it’s true the most common types of arthritis have no cure, you can manage your symptoms and delay the condition’s progression — all without surgery, too! In fact, both physical and occupational therapy are effective, noninvasive options for managing arthritis.
For example, our team can help reduce acute pain through modalities and targeted manual therapy. If your arthritis affects your hands and wrists, our occupational therapists can develop a custom brace or splint to protect the joint during flares.
Myth 5: You Shouldn’t Exercise If You Have Arthritis
Of all the arthritis myths, this is probably the one that has done the most damage. While it might seem logical on the surface, especially if you have osteoarthritis, exercise and movement actually protect you against arthritis pain!
Staying active can help prevent arthritis from developing in the first place. But if you’ve already developed the condition, regular physical activity is essential in reducing your pain and mobility restrictions.
The key is to ensure you perform low-impact activities that don’t put too much stress on your joints. The physical and occupational therapists at Professional Care can help you find the right exercise program to suit your needs.
Myth 6: Weather Changes Cause Arthritis Pain
Surprisingly, this myth might have some truth to it. While weather doesn’t cause arthritis pain, studies show that some rheumatoid arthritis patients experience slightly increased symptoms in cooler weather.
Separate Truth From Fiction with Professional Care
Our physical and occupational therapists are here to help you manage your arthritis pain. We’ll let you know what works, what doesn’t, and help you find a customized solution that meets your needs.
Call to make your appointment today!
Sources: Springer Study, CDC Statistics, NCBI Research
Welcome Sean Halpin, PT, DPT, to Our Riverhead Team!
Dr. Sean Halpin grew up in Wading River, NY, and completed his high school education at Shoreham-Wading River High School in 2017. His journey toward becoming a physical therapist led him to The University of Tampa, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree with a concentration in Allied Health in 2021. During his first two years at university, he played collegiate lacrosse for the Spartans at the Division II level. After graduating from The University of Tampa, Dr. Halpin was accepted into the Doctorate of Physical Therapy Program at Stony Brook University, where he graduated with his DPT in May 2025.
Throughout his journey in the DPT program, Sean enjoyed four remarkable clinical experiences that have shaped him into the professional he is today. He had the chance to work at two outpatient orthopedic clinics: Metro Physical & Aquatic Therapy and Advanced S.P.O.R.T.S Physical Therapy. Additionally, he completed an inpatient clinical rotation at Stony Brook Eastern Long Island Hospital/Peconic Landing Sub-Acute Rehabilitation Center, along with an outpatient, post-operative specialized clinic at Northwell Health – Peconic Bay.
Sean’s journey into physical therapy began during his high school years when he volunteered at events for disabled veterans. It was here that he witnessed the profound impact physical therapists have on individuals with various injuries and life circumstances. His current interests in physical therapy encompass treating patients across all age groups and diagnoses, with a particular focus on sports rehabilitation, as well as gait and balance.
Outside of his professional pursuits, Sean enjoys a variety of activities, including golfing, exercising, biking, and cheering on his favorite teams: the Jets, Notre Dame football, and the Mets. He eagerly anticipates joining the compassionate team at Professional Care, where he aims to deliver the highest standard of care, assisting each patient in achieving their life goals and enhancing their overall quality of life.
A Special Thanks to
Dr. Antigone Argyriou, MD, FAAPMR
Thank you to Dr. Antigone Argyriou from Spine Medicine and Surgery of Long Island for her comprehensive presentation on the latest advancements in interventional pain medicine during this month’s in-service. Dr. Argyriou is a dedicated pain management specialist who is double board-certified in both physical medicine and rehabilitation, as well as pain medicine. She provides a wide range of non-surgical treatments for acute and chronic pain, including epidural steroid injections, radiofrequency ablations, and more.
Scan the QR code to learn more about Spine Medicine and Surgery of Long Island, and Dr. Argyriou!
Website: spinemedli.com
Working Out With Arthritis:
Tips from Our Team
Now that you know skipping physical activity can worsen arthritis symptoms, you’re probably wondering how to keep moving safely. Don’t worry — the team at Professional Care is here to help!
Your first step is to schedule an appointment with us. It’s essential that you have a clear idea about which activities you can safely participate in without putting too much pressure on your joints. We can also work with you to strengthen any muscular imbalances and generally get you ready to get moving.
We can also share which activities are suitable for people with arthritis. You want to select low-impact workouts that go easy on the joints. Most importantly, however, whatever you choose should be fun.
Why? Because the more fun you’re having, the more likely you are to keep doing it!
Physical Therapist-Approved Exercise Ideas
Once you’ve been cleared to start a new exercise program, here are some ideas from our PTs to get you started:
- Walking, either outside (preferably on a dirt trail) or inside on a treadmill
- Golf
- Cycling
- Swimming
- A customized exercise program at Professional Care
Occupational Therapist-Approved Exercise Ideas
Dealing with arthritis in the hand or wrist? Our Occupational Therapists and Certified Hand Therapists might recommend the following to help improve fine motor skills:
- Grip strengthening with therapeutic putty
- Finger spreads to improve your range of motion
- Practice opening jar lids to improve functionality
For more information or to register, call 631-213-1182
No Referral? No Problem!
Did you know we can see you for Occupational & Physical Therapy with or without a referral from a doctor? Call us today for more information!
Five Star Review
“Professional Care Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation is amazing. I had an ankle injury and my doctor sent me to them, and I couldn’t be happier. Dr. Brooks Comeno is an outstanding doctor, who truly cares about every one of his patients, and his entire staff makes me feel welcome and right at home every time I go there. I would highly recommend them to everyone, I promise you will not be disappointed. I would never go anywhere else. I have complete confidence in them. Thank you Dr. Brooks and the whole staff for everything you have done!!”
Samantha H.
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