What to do this Christmas to feel good
Question: It’s beginning to feel a lot like Christmas! All I hear about at this time of year is what not to do and what not to eat. What are the things I can do to ensure I have a good time and promote a sense of well-being over the holiday period? When it comes to the Christmas holiday period, we are often bombarded with advice on what not to do, and while this advice is helpful, let’s focus on the flip side and consider the things you can and should do. Diet Tips Enjoy this day! DO eat the...
How to Spot Bad Science
Question: I like to do my own research on difference products or treatments for my arthritis but I don’t have a science background- how can I tell if what I’m reading is from a trustworthy source or if the study I’m reading is of good quality? Unless you’ve studied it, most of us are never taught how to evaluate science (e.g., quality of scientific studies or scientific claims) or how to determine the good from the bad. Yet it is something that dictates every area of our lives- we are exposed...
What is distraction therapy (for pain)?
Fool your brain, replace your pain What is Distraction? Diverting attention away (i.e., distraction) from feelings and thoughts of pain is a common and well researched pain-coping strategy. Its effects are variable across individuals, however, those who report high levels of pain catastrophising are known to benefit best from distraction. Distraction means shifting or moving your attention away something – in this case pain. It does not mean that the pain is no longer there, and it also does...
Stand up & move – your joints will thank you
Current research demonstrates that sedentary work and lifestyle behaviours have a profoundly negative affect on our health status; the message is loud and clear – sitting at your desk or on your couch for extended periods may now be seen as a high risk activity. While sedentary occupations or activities may not necessarily be exposed to the hazards associated with more physically demanding occupations or activities, they are exposed to an increased risk of lifestyle diseases (for example,...
Hot and Cold Therapies Explained
Treating pain, inflammation and injury with hot and cold therapies can be extremely effective and affordable. However, it’s important to know which situations call for hot, which call for cold and which may benefit from both treatments. Importantly, this kind of therapy is very good for arthritis and can help ease pain and stiffness that comes with the condition. Cold Therapy What is cold therapy? Cold therapy reduces blood flow to the applied area, slows the rate of inflammation and reduces...
An inspiring juvenile arthritis journey
Fundraising Concerts for Arthritis TAS During his time in Sydney, Chris would like to share his music with you via charity concerts. See Chris in action below! The next concerts will be held on: When: 7.30pm - 9.30pm Friday 17 December 2021 & 7.30pm - 9.30pm Saturday 18 December 2021 Where: St Andrews Uniting Church, South Turramurra Tickets: Book here. Ticket price is via donation of an amount of your choosing with 50% proceeds going to Arthritis TAS. Chris Ka Long Au shares his...
Efficacy of CBD for chronic pain & joint disease
This particular Research Review will use a variety of studies and study reviews to summarise answers for the following questions about Cannabidiol (CBD). What is CBD? How does it work for chronic pain and arthritis? Is CBD better than common mainstream pain medications (e.g., NSAIDs, Opioids)? Are there any side effects of CBD? Are there any guidelines/recommendations? Can I get CBD over the counter (OTC)? Please be aware that Arthritis TAS is not providing clinical advice...
Medication Resources
There are many safe and effective medical treatments for arthritic conditions. If you would like further information on a medication you are taking, a new medication that you are starting (or one that has been suggested) we have compiled a list of information resources that you may find helpful. Australian Rheumatology Association The ARA has an extensive list of Medicine Information Sheets, developed in conjunction with Arthritis Australia, that can be downloaded. Visit the Information Sheets...
Dedicated websites for your condition
Arthritis Australia's condition-specific websites provide tools and information to help you learn about osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and back pain. Access them using the links below. This website can help you relieve the symptoms of joint pain or osteoarthritis (OA) and help you lead a more active and pain-free life. Do a risk assessment: Do you have osteoarthritis (OA)? This joint disease that can lead to ongoing pain and...