More Than Achy Joints: What Arthritis Awareness Month Wants You to Know

By Dr. Atousa Faraz, Naturopathic Doctor

When you hear the word "arthritis," what comes to mind? Maybe you picture an older adult who is suffering from knee pain and sore hands, but arthritis is much more than getting older.

The terminology applies to a variety of different conditions affecting the joints and tissues around the joints in the body. In Canada, approximately more than 6 million people report living with arthritis.

September is Arthritis Awareness Month in Canada; making it an important time to look beyond the common stereotypes and understand what arthritis can really look and feel like. Arthritis can affect people of all ages, including children. In fact, nearly half of Canadians living with arthritis are under the age of 65.

Arthritis Is More Than “Just Getting Older”

Arthritis is often associated with aging, but it can affect people at virtually any stage of life. Some forms such as osteo arthritis are more common as we age, while others like rheumatoid arthritis are driven by immune system dysfunction, genetics, metabolic factors, or other underlying processes. For the person experiencing it, arthritis can mean much more than an occasional sore joint. Pain and stiffness can affect sleep, exercise, work, and the ability to participate in the things that bring joy and connection to everyday life.

What Exactly Is Arthritis?

So, what actually causes arthritis? The answer depends on the type. Osteoarthritis, the most common form, develops when the tissues within a joint change over time, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced function. It commonly affects the knees, hips, hands, and spine.

Other forms, such as rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis, are inflammatory conditions in which the immune system plays a major role. Gout is another form of inflammatory arthritis, caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in a joint such as the big toe or knees.

Not All Arthritis Are the Same

Arthritis can look different from person to person, with symptoms ranging from pain and stiffness to swelling, fatigue, and reduced mobility. For those with inflammatory arthritis, symptoms can also affect sleep, mood, work, and daily life. While arthritis cannot always be cured, proper care can help manage symptoms, protect joint function, and improve quality of life.

Supporting Your Body Through a Holistic Approach

Understanding your arthritis and taking steps to support your health can make a meaningful difference in managing symptoms and maintaining quality of life.

As a naturopathic doctor, I take a whole-person approach, looking at nutrition, inflammation, sleep, stress, digestion, movement, and lifestyle.  By using modalities such as acupuncture, recommending supplements that are tailored to your individual needs, reviewing your diet and lifestyle, ordering blood work to further evaluate your signs and symptoms, I can help shape a personalized plan that supports your health and well-being.

The Bigger Picture: Food, Movement, Sleep, and Stress

There is no single “arthritis diet” or solution that works for everyone. An anti-inflammatory approach to eating, better sleep, stress management, and appropriate movement can all play a role in supporting joint health and reducing the impact of symptoms. When joints hurt, it is natural to move less, but staying active within your abilities can help maintain muscle strength and mobility. This might include walking, swimming, strength training, or mobility exercises.

Living Well With Arthritis

Arthritis is not always visible. Someone may look perfectly healthy while struggling with pain, fatigue, stiffness, or everyday activities of daily living. Recognizing this invisible side of arthritis can help create greater understanding and compassion. Arthritis is also more than just achy joints. It can affect mobility, work, sleep, relationships, and overall quality of life. This September, take persistent pain or stiffness seriously, learn about your options, and remember that support is available.

If you are living with arthritis, naturopathic care can provide personalized, evidence-informed strategies to help you feel your best and support your health from the inside out. Book your appointment today and take the first step toward better health from within.

About the Author

Dr. Atousa Faraz, BSc (Hon), ND has nearly two decades of experience supporting patients with a wide range of health concerns. She combines evidence-informed care with a holistic approach to promote long-term health and well-being.

Dr. Faraz is available for both in-person and virtual appointments. To book your appointment today, click on the following link:

Book an appointment with Dr. Faraz

Disclaimer:

This article is for general information only and is not intended to diagnose or treat any medical condition. It does not replace professional medical advice or create a patient-doctor relationship. Always consult your healthcare provider before making health decisions or if you have questions about a specific condition. Dr. Atousa Faraz ND assumes no responsibility or liability for any outcomes resulting from the use of this information.

References:

Arthritis Society Canada. “What Is Arthritis?” Arthritis Society Canada, https://arthritis.ca/about-arthritis/what-is-arthritis/. Accessed 24 Aug. 2026.