6 "Chronic pain is not a fact of life because you have arthritis."

The myth that persistent, severe pain is just a natural part of aging and arthritis has been around for so long that it's no wonder many people believe the solution is simply increased stoicism. The truth is that pain is a symptom your condition isn't being adequately treated.

When your doctor asks you to rate your pain on a pain scale of one to 10, you're participating in an infinitely variable and personal pain calculation. Some people leave themselves a margin -- the pain is bad, but it could always be worse. Others amplify more minor pains in the hopes that a higher number will make their doctor take their pain more seriously. So your doctor has to try to find a context for your pain, meaning he may not always understand how seriously it is affecting you. The good news is, there are many effective pain treatments available. It's not always possible to make pain disappear entirely, but in almost all cases, it can be reduced to a level that you can live with.

What can you do? Describe your pain clearly to your doctor. Instead of saying "My knee really hurts," tell him, "It's so painful in the mornings that I often have trouble getting out of bed, and sometimes it wakes me up at night." Tell your doctor if pain is seriously affecting your life or your relationships. One of the most effective ways to articulate your pain to your doctor is to keep a pain journal, describing your pain and the methods you use to soothe it, so you have a record to share with your doctor.

Your doctor can make diagnoses, prescribe medications and recommend treatments, but ultimately you are responsible for the care you get. By breaking down the barriers of silence, you can live a healthier, happier life. All you have to do is speak up. 

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Amy Brayfield is the Lifestyle Editor of Arthritis Today.