Arthritis

The term arthritis is used to describe over 150 different conditions. It is a general term used to describe conditions which cause joint inflammation.

• Nearly one in five Australians has arthritis.
• Arthritis is Australia's major cause of disability and pain
• Arthritis can affect people at any age
• Most forms of arthritis are thought to be a reaction of the body against its own joint tissues.
• Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, lupus, polymyalgia rheumatica , ankylosing spondylitis are all forms of arthritis.
• Arthritis is not considered curable, but is treatable.

Recommendations:

• Understand the type of arthritis you have to best understand treatment options
• Stay active
• Learn how to manage pain
• If fatigue is an issue, work on balancing rest and activities

As with most chronic diseases self management is the best option. The Arthritis Foundation runs self management courses (http://www.arthritis.org.au/).

Cheryle Davies
Clergy Healthcare Coordinator
0448 846 608