Arthritis Insights

Living with arthritis can make everyday activities more challenging for some. Tasks that once felt simple, like getting dressed, preparing meals, working, driving, or enjoying hobbies, can become painful, tiring, or difficult to manage.   This is where occupational therapy can help.   Occupational Therapist’s (OT’s) work with people to find practical ways...

For many people, the kitchen is the heart of the home. It’s where meals are prepared, memories are made, and family and friends come together. But if you’re living with arthritis, everyday kitchen tasks such as opening jars, chopping vegetables, or lifting heavy pots can become painful and exhausting.  The good news is that with a few...

If you live with arthritis or persistent pain, you’ve probably experienced nights where sleep feels impossible. You toss and turn, struggle to find a comfortable position, or wake up feeling just as tired as when you went to bed. While it may seem like pain is simply interrupting your...

Living with arthritis as a young adult can sometimes feel isolating. While friends and family may care deeply, it can be challenging for others to fully understand the unique experiences of managing symptoms, navigating study or work, maintaining relationships and planning for the future while living with a chronic condition.  That’s why community matters.  Connecting with others...

What does prehabilitation involve?  Prehabilitation is tailored to your individual needs and may include:  Exercise: Improving strength, balance, flexibility and cardiovascular fitness.  Nutrition: Eating well to support healing and maintain muscle mass. Taking dietary supplements if they are needed. To optimise nutrition for surgical recovery, focus on enough protein, enough calories, good hydration, and a varied diet in the...

Many young people with arthritis worry about how their condition might affect dating and relationships. Some feel self-conscious about visible symptoms, mobility aids or joint changes. Others worry about fatigue, pain or the unpredictability of flares impacting social plans.  There can also be pressure to appear carefree and independent when getting to know...

What are GLP-1 medications?  GLP-1 medications work by mimicking a natural gut hormone, called glucagon-like peptide, that helps regulate blood sugar, appetite, and digestion. They are now widely used for diabetes and obesity management and are increasingly being studied for their broader effects on metabolism and inflammation. Why are...

Opioids; Balancing relief and risk  For many people living with arthritis, pain can be persistent, unpredictable, and exhausting. When that pain escalates, it’s natural to look for relief and opioid medications to become part of the conversation.  They are a topic of ongoing debate but understanding the benefits and risks...