Myth 1: Joint Pain is Just a Normal, Unavoidable Part of Getting Older
This is perhaps the most widespread and damaging myth of all. We hear it so often that we start to believe it: “Well, I’m getting older, so of course my knees hurt.” We resign ourselves to the idea that aches and pains are a non-negotiable part of aging, like graying hair or laugh lines.
While it is true that our bodies change with time, severe or chronic pain is not a normal part of the aging process. It is a signal from your body that something needs attention.
Think of it this way: a car with 100,000 miles on it will naturally have more wear and tear than a brand-new one. It might need more frequent oil changes or a new set of tires. But you wouldn’t accept a constantly sputtering engine or failing brakes as “normal.” You would take it to a mechanic. Your body deserves the same care and attention.
As we age, the cartilage—the smooth, rubbery tissue that cushions the ends of our bones—can begin to wear thin. The lubricating fluid in our joints, called synovial fluid, may also decrease. This can lead to some stiffness, especially in the morning. However, debilitating pain that stops you from your daily activities is a sign of an underlying condition, most commonly a form of arthritis like osteoarthritis.
The wonderful news is that these conditions can be managed. Accepting pain as inevitable means you might never seek a diagnosis or explore the many effective treatments available. By letting go of this myth, you open the door to solutions like physical therapy, gentle exercise, medication, and lifestyle adjustments that can dramatically improve your quality of life. Pain is a message, not a life sentence.
