You will need to learn about your kind of arthritis, what its common symptoms are, what treatments are available.
See your doctor who will examine you and may order blood tests and x-rays to determine what kind of arthritis you have (there are over a hundred different kinds).
Work with your healthcare providers, who may include:
- your doctor
- rheumatologist, a specialist in arthritis, who can give you the most up-to-date information about all aspects of arthritis and treatment
- pharmacists
- physiotherapists
- occupational therapists
- exercise physiologists
- nurses
- psychologists
- podiatrists
- complementary medicine practitioners.
10 Steps for living well with arthritis.
Find new ways to stay active, exercise being one of the most effective management strategies for arthritis.
Consult with your doctor, physiotherapist or exercise physiologist to help you develop the most suitable program for you.
Learn techniques to help you manage your pain.
Medicines and other treatments may not always relieve your pain but there are a variety of techniques which may help you manage it. Arthritis and Osteoporosis NT runs regular sessions for the self-management of pain. See Information Sessions
Make healthy food choices.
No diet has been found to cure arthritis or make it worse, except for gout. Eat a healthy balanced diet and be very cautious about special diets or supplements that claim to ‘cure’ arthritis or control its symptoms.
Balance your life so you are able to cope better with the symptoms of arthritis.
Pace yourself doing small amounts at a time, varying the tasks, and resting in between. Use equipment that makes daily tasks easier, such as tools for opening jars.
Seek support.
People with arthritis may have negative thoughts and emotions and need to find help. You can call Lifeline 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636.
This information is based on Arthritis Australia booklet 10 Steps for living well with arthritis.
The Arthritis Australia booklet At home with arthritis also has many helpful hints.