This Mother’s Day 2025, uncover 5 surprising truths about arthritis in women. A powerful read that challenges myths and empowers early action.
They say pain is a part of growing old.
But should it really be?
Every May, while the world celebrates Mother’s Day 2025 with gifts, gratitude, and thoughtful quotes for Mother’s Day, another, quieter campaign unfolds in the background — Arthritis Awareness Month. And in that silence lies a truth we don’t often acknowledge older women are disproportionately affected by arthritis, yet their discomfort is normalized, ignored, or misdiagnosed.
Greeting cards might say, “Thanks for always being there, Mom.” But perhaps it’s time we start being there more — especially when our mothers hint at joint pain, fatigue, or morning stiffness. These are not just signs of age — they could be early arthritis symptoms.
In India, one in three women over the age of 60 suffers from arthritis. ¹ But what’s even more concerning is that this isn’t just an older woman’s issue anymore. Doctors are seeing a rise in arthritis among women in their 20s and 30s.²
Why?
Because arthritis doesn’t crash into your life. It whispers its arrival — through stiff knees in the morning, a dull ache after a long day, or a small wince climbing stairs. It’s easy to ignore and even easier to dismiss.
Understanding the Risk in Women
Women are biologically more prone to certain types of arthritis — particularly osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis — due to hormonal changes, differences in joint structure, and a higher likelihood of autoimmune conditions.
Left unaddressed, these can lead to:
- Persistent joint pain
- Swelling and stiffness
- Reduced range of motion
- Difficulty performing everyday tasks
And often, by the time medical help is sought, the damage has already begun.
So, What Can You Do?
Whether you’re in your 30s, 40s, or beyond, prevention is powerful. Here’s how you can stay one step ahead — or help someone else do so:
- Know the Early Signs
- Joint stiffness after rest (especially in the morning)
- Swelling in fingers, knees, or wrists
- Pain that worsens with movement
- Fatigue and general malaise (more common in autoimmune arthritis)
Don’t write these off as “just tiredness” or “just age.”
- Take Preventive Steps
- Maintain a healthy weight – Extra weight strains joints, especially the knees.
- Stay active – Low-impact activities like walking, swimming, or yoga help keep joints mobile.
- Eat anti-inflammatory foods – Think leafy greens, berries, turmeric, walnuts, and flaxseeds.
- Get regular screenings – Especially if arthritis or autoimmune conditions run in your family.
- Explore Treatment Options Early
- Physical therapy – Improves mobility and strengthens supporting muscles.
- Medications – NSAIDs for inflammation, DMARDs for autoimmune types.
- Assistive tools – Braces and orthotics reduce daily strain.
- Surgery – Reserved for advanced cases but life-changing when needed.
Myths vs Facts: Clearing the Confusion
Too often, misinformation delays action. Let’s separate the noise from the truth.
Myth 1: Arthritis only affects old people.
Fact: Arthritis can start young. Rheumatoid arthritis, in particular, often begins between ages 30–50 and sometimes even earlier.
Myth 2: Cracking your knuckles causes arthritis.
Fact: Despite what you’ve heard, cracking knuckles hasn’t been linked to arthritis. It might annoy people, but it’s harmless.
Myth 3: Joint pain always means arthritis.
Fact: Not all joint pain is arthritis. But if it’s persistent, it deserves evaluation. Only a proper diagnosis can rule things out.
Myth 4: Exercise worsens arthritis.
Fact: The right kind of movement actually helps ease symptoms. Gentle stretching and strengthening routines reduce stiffness.
Myth 5: Arthritis is a normal part of aging.
Fact: While the risk increases with age, it isn’t inevitable — and it shouldn’t be dismissed as such.
These myths don’t just mislead — they cause delays. And when it comes to joint health, early action makes all the difference.
Quick Self-Assessment Checklist
Take a moment — for yourself or someone you love. In the last few weeks:
- Have you felt stiffness in the morning that lasts more than 30 minutes?
- Do you feel pain in your knees, hands, or back during simple tasks?
- Have you noticed swelling in your fingers or knees?
- Do you feel unusually tired even after proper rest?
- Is walking short distances or climbing stairs uncomfortable?
If you checked more than two — consider scheduling a medical consultation. And if your mother or grandmother shows these signs, encourage her to get evaluated too.
A Note to Families and Caregivers
If a loved one says, “My knees aren’t what they used to be,” don’t brush it off. Arthritis is not just an age issue — it’s a health issue. Early intervention can drastically improve quality of life.
This Mother’s Day 2025 let’s go beyond the usual gestures. Let’s listen closely. Notice how she stands up. Watch her pause before climbing stairs. Hear the unspoken discomfort between her smiles.
Because love isn’t just about celebration. It’s about attention — and action.
In Closing
At our organization, we believe that awareness is the first step toward better health outcomes. This isn’t just a Mother’s Day thought or a passing quote for the occasion. It’s a call to stop normalizing pain as strength and start advocating for early care, especially for the women who never stop showing up for others.
Let’s make this Mother’s Day 2025 not just about gifting but about noticing. Not just about celebrating but about supporting.
Because enduring pain isn’t strength.
Knowing when to seek help is.
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