You have been diagnosed with arthritis, but where to next?
Your healthcare team is made up of a number of individuals – you, your health care professionals, and your family, friends and other supportive community groups.
You are at the centre of your healthcare team, because you make the final decisions about your health care.
Your healthcare team includes your general practitioner (GP). You may have also already seen a rheumatologist (a doctor who specialises in arthritis). You might also see other specialists or allied health professionals (for example, a physiotherapist, occupational therapist or dietitian) who can help with different areas of looking after your arthritis.
Your doctors and health professionals have the knowledge and experience to help you make informed decisions.
Your family and friends may be able to support you by talking to you about the decisions that you make.
To get the most out of any visit with a doctor or a health professional, it helps to:
Your doctor and health professionals will be a great start to learning about your arthritis. This is also where we can help!
By learning about your arthritis, and working with your healthcare team, you can determine the best treatment options for you and come up with a treatment plan. A treatment plan is a combination of treatments that help you to manage your arthritis.
Your treatment plan may include:
As life changes, your treatment plan may also change from time to time. Many people find that having a treatment plan is reassuring, and
keeps them ‘on track’ during the ups and downs of living with arthritis.
How does MyJointPain work?
1. Answer questions about your situation.
2. Receive a summary of your risk of hip or knee osteoarthritis, and your management options.
3. Receive regular updates and ongoing support to keep you on track with managing your joint pain.
MyJoint Pain was developed by Arthritis Australia and Bupa Health Foundation, and has been endorsed by scientific experts. The website and
online tools are based on the combined knowledge of a committee of medical and scientific experts in key areas of surgical, scientific,
allied health, medical, and consumer advocacy.
Learn more about the types of arthritis and the ways it can be managed with our Info Sheets and Booklets
Seek support from others living with arthritis through our online support groups or Arthritis
Assist telephone service.
Sign up to our e-news to receive regular information about arthritis and the ways we can manage it.
Call our free infoline on 1800 011 041 to speak with a member of our health team.