Young Adults with Arthritis

If you’re living with a long-term health condition, thinking about starting a family can bring up a lot of questions. Living with rheumatoid arthritis or another autoimmune condition adds complexity but it does not remove possibility. Family planning decisions are deeply personal however with early conversations, coordinated care, and informed decision-making, you can approach this chapter feeling supported rather than overwhelmed. Why...

Understanding the Condition  The first step in supporting someone with arthritis is understanding the condition. The more you understand about arthritis, the more you will be able to provide support and assistance. Learn about the type of arthritis the person you are caring for has and how it is managed.  Inflammatory arthritis can affect people in...

Living with arthritis can change the way you see and feel about your body, and if you’ve noticed this happening, you’re definitely not the only one. Research shows that people with inflammatory types of arthritis in particular are significantly more likely to struggle with body image compared to those...

When you are managing arthritis, your shoes do more than protect your feet; they support your whole body. Even if your arthritis is not in your feet or toes, wearing the wrong shoes can affect your knees, hips, spine, and overall alignment. Unsupportive footwear can increase joint stress and...

Being open with the people closest to you about your arthritis can feel overwhelming, especially when you are still wrapping your head around things yourself. But sharing what you are going through can strengthen your relationships, help you feel supported, and give others the chance to understand how they...

What is Self-Advocacy? Self-advocacy is the process of speaking up for your own needs and interests, making decisions about your life, and communicating these clearly to others. It can be broken down into three key principles: Understanding yourself and your needs. Knowing your rights and the choices available. Communicating...

Staying active is important, especially for people with arthritis. Regular exercise helps manage pain by boosting the body’s natural feel-good hormones, reducing stiffness, and improving joint mobility. It also strengthens the muscles around the joints, which can help take pressure off arthritic areas and reduce inflammation. In addition, it...

Navigating friendships with a chronic condition can be tricky when striking the balance between looking after yourself and not missing out. This article will explore how to balance our friendships in a way that doesn’t neglect your arthritis needs. Importance of friendships Friendships are a fundamental part of our...