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Arthritis
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'Arthritis' means 'joint inflammation'. Arthritis can cause a variety of problems: pain, stiffness, fatigue, difficulty in moving about and doing everyday tasks. There are over 150 different forms of arthritis, with the most common forms being Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis. Australians have a one in five chance of being diagnosed with some form of arthritis during their lifetime.
Arthritis Australia
Arthritis Australia is the peak arthritis organisation in Australia and is supported by affiliate offices in every state and territory. Information counselling is available Australia wide on 1800 011 041, each state Arthritis Foundation has trained counsellors to answer calls. The Arthritis Self-Management Course, which is available through all state Arthritis Foundations’ offers practical and well tested ways of coping with these problems. It not only provides information but helps you develop your abilities and confidence in managing your arthritis. Some information on management is available through the Arthritis Australia website.Independent Living Centres
The Independent Living Centre (ILC) is an information resource centre that provides an equipment display of hundreds of items that people are able to try and compare. The Health Professionals (Occupational Therapists and a Registered Nurse) provide individual assessment and advice to enable you to make an informed choice when purchasing products or accessing services. A small resource and reference library is available for use by clients visiting the Centre. You can find an ILC in every state and the Australian Capital Territory or call the national ILC help-line on 1300 885 886Useful articles
Health Insite: Living With Arthritis and Self Management of Chronic DiseasesAustralian Rheumatology Association
Better Health Channel:Arthritis and Exercise, Arthritis and Water Exercise and Tai Chi Can Help Manage Arthritis
MyDr.:Adapting for the Workplace
Nutrition Australia:Diet and Arthritis
