However the ambiguity of “arthritis” can be a source of frustration and annoyance for persons who live with a different form of disease other than the very common osteoarthritis.  I know that there are a large portion of rheumatoid arthritis patients who become intolerant of those who misunderstand or dismiss their RA by saying things like “oh, I have arthritis too and Tylenol takes care of the pain; you should try taking that” or “you are too young to have arthritis” or “you should take glucosamine, it really helps my joints.”

As May is Arthritis Awareness Month, it is vital that we help to spread awareness of ALL forms of arthritis and related diseases of the joints and surrounding tissues.  Check out the Arthritis Foundation’s list and let me know which are new to you or which surprise you to see listed.

Also please visit our Arthritis Awareness area – we’re adding new content several times each week. Don't forget to enter MyRACentral's weekly contests throughout the month of May! Follow MyRACentral on Facebook or Twitter to get regular updates of new content and contests!

Lisa Emrich is author of the blog Brass and Ivory: Life with MS and RA and founder of the Carnival of MS Bloggers.