Arthritis & Osteoporosis Tasmania

10 Steps to Living Well with Arthritis Arthritis is a very common condition in Australia affecting people of all ages and from all walks of life. Its symptoms often have a big impact on the daily lives of people. Although arthritis can be difficult to live with, there are many simple measures that can help anyone with arthritis manage their symptoms and cope with daily life. This information will put you on the path to managing your arthritis by taking an active role in understanding and treating your condition. The key steps listed form a simple-to-follow check list for living well with arthritis; and call the Arthritis Tasmania HelpLine 1800 011 041 for assistance. “part of living well with arthritis is having credible information and someone understanding to talk to” Read More

With arthritis, knowledge is invaluable. Many people with arthritis say that learning about their condition and what they can do about it gives them back a feeling of control over their lives and their health. Arthritis – what is it? Arthritis is not a single disease. The word ‘arthritis’ is a name for a group of more than 100 conditions that affect the joints. Arthritis can affect many different parts of the joint and nearly every joint in the body. People can be affected in all sorts of different ways but the most common symptoms of arthritis are pain, stiffness and swelling in one or more joints. The three most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout. Sometimes getting a true understanding about your condition can be a bit like a puzzle – information gives you the pieces bit by bit. For more information refer to the following information sheets: What is arthritis? Different types of arthritis Symptoms of the most common types of arthritis Or to request your copy of ‘10 Steps to Living Well with Arthritis’ booklet, telephone the Arthritis Helpline on 1800 011 041. “once you have a diagnosis, there is a lot you can do” Read More

Because arthritis can get worse if left untreated, you need to see your doctor as early as possible to get a proper diagnosis. Early diagnosis and treatment can limit the effects of arthritis on your life and help you stay active and independent. What to expect when you go to the doctor When you first visit your doctor, you will be asked a number of questions about your symptoms including: How long you have experienced pain? Which joints are affected? When you get pain and what seems to cause it? What makes the joint feel better or worse? Whether anyone else in your family has had arthritis or joint pain? Your doctor may also order tests. Diagnosis can often be difficult and may take several visits to your doctor before the type of arthritis is diagnosed. This is because there is often no single test to diagnose some types of arthritis and the symptoms can be similar to other forms of arthritis. For more information refer to the following information sheets: The types of arthritis Arthritis and specific joints of the body Blood tests for arthritis Or to request your copy of ‘10 Steps to Living Well with Arthritis’ booklet, telephone the Arthritis Helpline on 1800 011 041. “Early diagnosis and treatment can limit the effects of arthritis on your life” Read More

And be an important part of it. The best way to live well with arthritis is by working closely with your healthcare team. It may include a variety of healthcare specialists such as doctors, pharmacists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, podiatrists, nurses, psychologists and complementary medicine practitioners. Your doctor may also refer you to a rheumatologist – a specialist in conditions that affect the joints and the structures around them. Remember, you are the most important member of your healthcare team. Make sure you establish and maintain good communication with all the other members. For more information refer to the following information sheet: How to work effectively with your healthcare team Or to request your copy of ‘10 Steps to Living Well with Arthritis’ booklet, telephone the Arthritis Helpline on 1800 011 041. “I know my body best, so it makes sense that I be a key member of my healthcare team” Read More

There are many treatments to relieve pain and stiffness and slow the development of your arthritis. Work with your healthcare team to find a combination of treatments that best suits: your type of arthritis and the joints affected the amount of pain or other symptoms you experience, and its impact on your lifestyle. A treatment program may include a combination of: Physical therapies including physiotherapy, occupational therapy and podiatry Medicines including prescription, non-prescription and complementary medicines Exercise, healthy eating, finding a balance between activity and rest Pain management techniques such as relaxation and meditation; and Emotional and social support For more information refer to the following information sheets: Medicines and arthritis Complementary therapies Supplements and arthritis Physical activity Healthy Eating Massage and arthritis Or to request your copy of ‘10 Steps to Living Well with Arthritis’ booklet, telephone the Arthritis Helpline on 1800 011 041. “My key to managing my arthritis means balancing my physical activity and rest, eating well and being surrounded by supportive people” Read More

Research has found that regular exercise is one of the most effective treatments for arthritis. Physical activity helps broadly in two ways. Firstly, exercise will help your arthritis by: decreasing the pain and increasing flexibility in your joints and muscles strengthening muscles; and improving your posture and balance. Secondly, regular exercise will improve your overall health. This means you will be able to do more in life, feel more in control of your arthritis and be better able to manage your pain. For more information refer to the following information sheets: Physical activity and arthritis Examples of exercises suitable for people with arthritis Maintaining healthy bones Or to request your copy of ‘10 Steps to Living Well with Arthritis’ booklet call the Arthritis Helpline on 1800 011 041. “Attending my warm water exercise class keeps me mobile and helps with my pain – I just love it” Read More