Support World Arthritis Day

By Dr Raya Grishina-Gunn

World Arthritis Day 2021 History

World Arthritis Day was established by Arthritis and Rheumatism International (ARI) in 1996, and since then, is observed every year on 12th October. While people suffering from rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs) from all across the globe join together to make their voices heard, on this day, which is a year-round campaign.

World Arthritis Day 2021 Significance: 

Celebrated every year on 12th October, World Arthritis Day aims to raise awareness of Rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs) amongst the medical community, people suffering from RMDs, and the general public at large.

The World Arthritis Day 2021 also aims to influence public policy by making decision-makers aware of the burden of RMDs and the steps which can be taken to ease it. World Arthritis Day also focuses on ensuring all people suffering from RMDs, and their caregivers to be aware of the support network available to them.

What is Arthritis.

Arthritis’ is a name for a group of conditions affecting the joints. These conditions cause damage to the joints, usually resulting in pain and stiffness. Arthritis can affect many different parts of the joint and nearly every joint in the body.

There are over 100 forms of arthritis. Each type of arthritis affects people and their joints in different ways. Some forms of arthritis can also involve other parts of the body such as the eyes. The most common forms of arthritis are:

• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Gout
• Ankylosing spondylitis

Many people think arthritis is a normal part of getting older. This is not true. In fact, two out of every three people with arthritis are between 15 and 60 years old. Arthritis can affect people from all backgrounds, ages and lifestyles.

Currently there is no cure for most forms of arthritis. While there are treatments that can effectively control symptoms, we do not have a cure for most forms of arthritis at the moment. There are however strategies people can use to prevent some forms of arthritis, slow the progression and improve and manage the symptoms.

Early diagnosis and the right treatment can ease symptoms and may even prevent damage to the joints. Research has led to great improvements in this area.  Because arthritis affects people in different ways, treatment has to be tailored to the needs of each person. It is important to work with the medical team to find treatments that suit each person.

What can be done.

There are many simple things people can do to live well with arthritis:

• find out what type of arthritis is affecting you: and learn about your treatment options
• stay active: keep your joints moving and your muscles strong
• learn ways to manage pain: there are many things you can do to help you cope with pain
• manage tiredness: learn to balance rest and your normal activities
• keep to a healthy weight: there is no diet that can cure arthritis but a well-balanced diet whole food plant-based diet is best for your general health and management of inflammation.
• look after and protect your joints: find out about equipment and gadgets that can make tasks easier
• acknowledge your feelings and seek support: as there is currently no cure for arthritis it is natural to feel scared, frustrated, sad and sometimes angry. Be aware of these feelings and get help if they start affecting your daily life.

If you would like support with your Arthritis please contact us on 02 4384 7200.