Myth 4: Exercise makes arthritis worse.

The truth: Regular moderate exercise can help prevent and treat arthritis. Exercise promotes function and mobility, controls weight and strengthens the muscles that support the joints. Though you may want to avoid high-impact exercises (like running) if your knees bother you, low-impact exercises such as walking, tai chi or aquatics are all beneficial. Talk to your physician about the best exercise regimen for you. Pool (aqua) therapy has been shown to cause improvement in mobility in arthritic joints.

Myth 5: "Nightshade" vegetables should be avoided.

The truth: Some people claim that vegetables in the "nightshade" family (potatoes, tomatoes, eggplant and peppers) cause arthritis to flare up. However, none about these associations have been proven. If a certain food seems to negatively affect you or your family, try to avoid it and see if that helps. Otherwise, follow the Arthritis Foundation recommendations for a diet rich in vegetables and fruits, including tomatoes.

Myth 6: Diet can't help or hurt arthritis.

The truth: The Arthritis Foundation recommends a diet low in calories and saturated fats, rich in "good" fats found in fish and olive oil and nuts, and full of vegetables, fruits and whole grains. Some research suggests that carotenoids (found in orange and yellow vegetables and fruits) and cruciferous vegetables (the broccoli and cabbage family) may be particularly effective at protecting joints. Gout, which causes painful arthritis attacks, has multiple dietary triggers, including many types of meat and seafood and alcohol.