When you hear the word, “joint,” what is the first thought that enters your mind?
If you live within the arthritis community, deal with pain on a regular basis or are in the medical field, most likely you’ll think, ‘body part.'
For those having flashbacks to the ’60s, quoting Cheech and Chong, justifying ‘medicinal purposes,’ or getting the munchies, do not feel guilty. You are not alone. Over the years, I’ve experienced many misconceptions to the word.
Several years ago, a reporter called to say she wanted to learn more about living with arthritis and asked me to share my story. Instead of a sole interview, I invited her to attend a F.A.C.T. meeting (Friends with Arthritis Coping Together, a support group for people living with rheumatic diseases, chronic illnesses or disability) where she’d have the opportunity to meet several people living with the disease.
In an attempt to give the reporter insight on all of the aspects of arthritis, we had a round table discussion where everyone spoke freely about their experiences. Without thinking about her interpretation, I used the phrase, “blowing a joint,” many times when referring to ruptured joints. I’ve had three experiences involving my fingers and knuckles and it’s not fun! With minimal activity and no warning, the worn and strained joints rupture, causing damage and the need for surgical repair.
Everyone at the table understood the meaning of the phrase, “blowing a joint.” Or so I thought.
After the meeting, the reporter thanked us and claimed she had all of the material needed to write a great story. Then she turned to me quietly and said, “I’m going to have to omit the part about using illegal drugs. While I understand your needs, the newspaper cannot promote getting high, even if it’s used for medicinal purposes.”
After a quick explanation to clarify my words and a little embarrassment on her part, she understood the terminology.
A few years ago, I met a well-known sports figure who was intrigued by my medical history. Wanting to contribute to raising awareness, he invited me to speak to an audience of 200 male athletes. In an effort to keep the focus of a group of healthy men, I decided to pass out props, one being an artificial shoulder joint.
My speech went well and the audience was very receptive. While the sports figure made closing comments, I gathered my things. Missing one, I glanced into the audience.
The Host asked if he could help. I said, “I’m missing the shoulder joint.” He immediately looked to the crowd and asked repeatedly, “Where’s the joint? Who has the joint?” When it was located, he said while quickly motioning with his hand, “pass me the joint.”
Without realizing what he said or how it sounded, the crowd began to snicker. Although he was being helpful and the comments were innocent, everyone had the same thoughts and was amused by this well respected person hastily asking to pass the joint.
I remember trying to explain a phrase to a co-worker who grew up in Rwanda. I told him my daughter was down in the pantry cutting the cheese (she really was cutting cheese into smaller pieces, but that's not why I was laughing). I started laughing because the phrase means something else. He looked at me like I was crazy. I explained to him that this is a phrase people use for farting. He then understood my laughter, but it was somewhat embarrassing explaining it to him!
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