Fatigue is a feeling of both physical and mental tiredness. It is often described as ...
Two of the simplest, least expensive methods to relieve your pain are heat and cold treatments.
Etanercept (brand name Enbrel) is one of a group of medicines called biological disease modifying antirheumatic drugs.
The primary goal of occupational therapy is to help you to participate in activities of everyday life. Occupational therapists can help by..
Methotrexate is prescribed for a number of patients with rheumatic diseases. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, even..
In rheumatoid arthritis, patients will get hot and swollen joints very typically in the hands and wrists and knees and feet and ankles; agai
Exercise can help you improve your health and fitness without hurting your joints.
Dozens of studies show that patients have better health outcomes when their doctors are effective, empathetic communicators.
Here are three stories of people with RA living their lives to the fullest - meet Jamie Stelter, Aaron Sober and April Yazza.
Occupational therapists (OT) can show you ways to make activities of daily living, such as cooking and showering, easier and provide...
We don’t know what causes rheumatoid arthritis exactly. We know that it’s an abnormality ...
The most important step to living well with arthritis is to learn about your condition and its management.
Fatigue is a feeling of extreme physical or mental tiredness, or both. Most of us feel tired after a long day, but if you have ...
Methotrexate (brand name Methoblastin or injectable methotrexate (Hospira, Methacord, Methotrexate Accord & Trexject) is a well-established,
Soaking in warm water is one of the oldest forms of alternative therapy, and there’s good reason why this practice has stood the test of tim
Biologics are a type of medication that can be prescribed for some forms of inflammatory arthritis ...
Supplements can have a role to play. The trick is to understand which supplements are safe ...
Already pregnant or just starting to think about pregnancy? Becoming a parent is one of the most exciting and overwhelming times in most
Good sleep habits (also called good sleep hygiene) are things that you can do to give your child the best chance of a good refreshing sleep.
Adalimumab belongs to a class of medicines called biological disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (biological DMARDs or or bDMARDs)
You’ll need a thorough assessment of both the layout of your home and your own physical problems in order to choose the best stairlift for y
One of the problems with methotrexate is there are so many misconceptions about it
If rheumatoid arthritis is left untreated, in the majority of people it will continue to progress, so people will experience ongoing inflamm
Golf is a game loved and played by people of all ages. It provides a stimulating mental challenge, a healthy walk in pleasant ...
Learn how your inflammatory disease and other factors may be causing your extreme tiredness.
Most people with arthritis wish to remain as independent as possible, so trying to find the right balance between providing help without be
Exercise physiologists specialise in designing and delivering safe and effective exercise programs for people with chronic medical...
My role as a physiotherapist with inflammatory disease so with rheumatoid or with psoriatic...
Neck pain is pain that is felt in the upper part of the spine. It is sign that the joints, ...
Raising a family is one of the most rewarding and challenging parts of life and having arthritis shouldn't stop you from experiencing it.
Paracetamol is a common pain killer (analgesic). It can also lower raised body temperature (fever). It is used for relief of fever, headache
Not all rheumatoid arthritis relief is found in the medicine cabinet. Here are some easy ways to relieve your pain.
Patient journey for Rheumatoid Arthritis. Symptoms, Healthcare provide visit, ...
Eat well. Live well. Be well. Is there really a diet that could cure arthritis?
Sometimes the physical and emotional symptoms associated with arthritis can affect relationships ...
Lifting weights or resistance training offers numerous benefits to help manage arthritis pain. Exercise keeps muscles around affected joint
Rituximab (brand name Mabthera, Mabthera SC, Riximyo, Truxima)) belongs to a new class of medicines called biological disease-modifying...
Getting the right shoes will make a difference for almost all foot problems and the importance of appropriate footwear should not be underes
The most commonly used DMARD is methotrexate. It is important to note that the doses...
Walking. It's free, low risk and one of the most effective means of reducing the pain and stiffness associated with rheumatoid arthritis...
Choosing a doctor is something we all need to do at different points in our lives. That's especially true when you're dealing with the pain
If you know someone with arthritis, there may be many ways you could offer them your help. How that help will depend on how serious their ar
Podiatrists specialise in conditions affecting the feet and lower limbs. They may find ways to reduce the pain in your toes, knees or...
You are the most important member of your healthcare team.
Shoulder pain is pain that is felt in the shoulder area, at the top of the arm. It is a sign...
Early, aggressive treatment. The first strategy is to reduce or stop inflammation as quickly as possible – the earlier, the better.
Our booklets provide comprehensive information on different types of arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions, as well as strategies for liv
What is the value of distraction in living with rheumatoid arthritis? Can it help cope with pain? With fatigue?
Find ways where you can take part in to distract yourself from the pain caused by arthritis.
These days more and more the role of the dietitian is that support role. With the knowledge...
A range of healthcare professionals may be involved in helping you manage your arthritis.
Are your RA symptoms affecting your sleep, or is your trouble sleeping making your symptoms worse? The answer may be both...
Abatacept (brand name Orencia) belongs to a new class of medicines called biological disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (biological DMARD
Gardening is a really good form of exercise, but doing some actions over and over can lead to swelling (inflammation) and pain if you have a
Even though arthritis may be a long-term disorder, we now have excellent treatment that...
Group fitness classes that focus on cardiovascular conditioning include step-type classes, dance-based classes, water classes ...
Caring for your emotional symptoms is an important part of arthritis care.
Baricitinib (brand name Olumiant®) is a tablet that belongs to a class of medicines called Janus Kinase (JAK) inhibitors.
Rheumatology nurses are nurses with a specialist knowledge in arthritis. They can provide you with education, support and advice on your...
One of the key that I find as a general practitioner is to help a patient to accumulate ...
Low back pain is pain that is felt in the lower part of the spine. It is very common with...
Physiotherapy is an important part of treatment for most people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). It’s run by physiotherapists, who are ...
Hydroxychloroquine is a medicine used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory conditions such as systemic lupus erythematosus.
If you know someone with RA, you may try to sympathise or offer advice. But be aware that some sentiments may do more harm than good.
Co-designed with people living with RA, the Guide is intended to empower you to manage your condition, and navigate the health system.
This webinar by NPS MedicineWise (co-designed with the Australian Rheumatology Association and Arthritis Australia) reinforces the role ...
Fish oils are oils found in the tissues of fish. They contain a certain type of fat called ...
Studies show that as many as 80% of people with arthritis have difficulty sleeping. Whether you are having trouble entering dreamland,...
Golimumab belongs to a class of medicines called biological disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (biological DMARDs or bDMARDs).
A joint is where two or more bones meet and is made up of a number of different parts that all work together so that we can bend, stretch, t
There are several secrets to achieving really effective therapy in inflammatory diseases
Tai chi is an ancient, Chinese martial art form that is practised around the world as a type of gentle exercise. It involves smooth ...
Click on to find a list of links to organisations around the world that help with issues relating to all types of arthritis.
Tofacitinib (brand name: Xeljanz) belongs to a class of medicines called non-biological disease modifying antirheumatic drugs.
Dietitians are experts in food and nutrition. They provide advice about healthy eating, weight loss and diets...
A GP is really important as part of your ongoing care. The GP can actually be the key if ...
Hip pain is more commonly due to osteoarthritis (OA), but can also occur if you have long-standing rheumatoid arthritis...
Hydrotherapy is the use of water in the treatment of different conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Hydrotherapy differs ...
Sulfasalazine (brand names Pyralin EN, Salazopyrin EN) is a medicine used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and other diseases.
Find all the official videos published by Arthritis Australia on rheumatoid arthritis
Undiagnosed rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis or psoriatic arthritis is still...
Low dose once weekly methotrexate is the gold standard treatment for rheumatoid arthritis and other immune related diseases.
‘Complementary therapies’ are any treatments or therapies that are not part of the conventional
If you have arthritis, self-help devices can make tasks easier on your joints and more efficient for you. These products, which range...
If you have poor or disturbed sleep night after night, you may begin to notice your health getting worse. If you have rheumatoid arthritis
Tips for every room in the house that you can easily apply to make everyday living with arthritis better and easier.
Left untreated, inflammatory arthritis can cause irreversible joint damage, impair physical functions
Water exercise involves exercising in a pool, usually a heated, warm water pool, and may also be called ‘hydrotherapy’.
You know that living with the pain, stiffness and fatigue of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), as well as side effects of your medication, can...
If medical therapy fails to control your rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in one or more joints, surgery could be an option to help improve your ..
Peer support groups give people with the same or a similar condition the chance to connect...
Rheumatology I think was the first speciality to recognise the importance of the team...
Any joint in your fingers, thumbs, knuckles and wrists can be affected by arthritis.
Pharmacists can help you to understand your medicines and how to take them safely and correctly.
Infliximab belongs to a class of medicines called biological disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (biological DMARDs or bDMARDs).
Prednisolone and prednisone are hormones that are produced naturally in the body. They are necessary for normal working of the body.
If treatment is not taken early and quickly you can end up with serious joint damage.
I know there’s an old saying that says, ‘when you’re going through hell, keep on going.’ You must do that because you might not be going thr
When you have arthritis, joint pain and weakness can make normal activities around the ...
Wrist and hand splints may be recommended for you if you need protection and support for painful, swollen or weak joints in your hands...
There are many things you can do to reduce the impact of fatigue. Start by working out the possible causes then talk to your healthcare team
An outline of financial support that may be available to you.
It’s estimated nearly 4 million people in Australia live with a form of arthritis and ...
Pain relievers are often the first medicine your doctor will recommend to help with pain.
Strength training is a name for activities or exercises that build the strength of your muscles. Strength training involves working your ...
Many people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have concerns about exercising due to the fear of their condition worsening. However, exercise is
When you have knee or hip surgery for rheumatoid arthritis (RA), you can look forward to better mobility and function afterward.
Why RA puts you at greater risk for heart disease, and what you can do to protect yourself?
The GP will usually refer you to a rheumatologist to confirm a diagnosis and for treatment.
The knee is commonly affected by arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis (OA), but it is also a common joint affected by rheumatoid arthritis
Your rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can affect you in many different ways, but your occupational therapist will help you with some of the ...
There are many resources available to help you live with rheumatoid arthritis. Your doctor may put you in touch with a social worker, who...
The word "acupuncture" is derived from the Latin words "acus" (needle) and "punctura" (penetration). Acupuncture originated in China...
Living with inflammatory arthritis can lead to many challenges. There are lots of secrets to...
Why is the early treatment of rheumatoid arthritis so important? If people are experiencing these symptoms and have ongoing joint pain ...
Living with pain can be one of the hardest parts of having rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Understanding pain and learning techniques that may...
Please call our toll free National Arthritis Infoline number for information about rheumatoid arthritis (RA) including self-management ...
Can trauma or stress trigger the onset of rheumatoid arthritis? Can worrying make the disease worse?
You have rheumatoid arthritis (RA), your joints are sore and stiff and you may be fatigued. So why am I being referred to a psychologist?
One of the really important early symptoms is of early morning stiffness, where people wake up
They are a type of medication called a disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug or DMARD for short ...
Physical activity and exercise is extremely important for managing rheumatoid arthritis (RA). It can improve mobility and flexibility of
Having RA can have a negative effect on your mental health.
It is challenging enough to talk about intimacy and sex with a spouse or longtime partner. But if you are single and have arthritis, it can
During this time, it is normal to feel uncertain or anxious if you are living with an immune-mediated condition
It can be straight forward; they're referred to a rheumatologist immediately.
Any joint in your ankles, feet and toes can be affected by arthritis. Many different types ...
Psychologists can teach you ways to cope with any pain and difficult emotions you feel as a result of your arthritis.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a condition that can cause pain, swelling and stiffness in joints. It is what is known as an auto-immune...
In the early stages, of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) you may not initially see any redness or feel any swelling in your joints, but you
The biggest breakthrough in rheumatology. They treat the disease rather than numb the symptoms.
Suzie always wanted to have children, despite the challenges of having rheumatoid arthritis.
Pain is usually a protective mechanism that alerts your brain when your body is being...
Most couples – whether they have arthritis or not – go through phases in their relationship when their sex life is less exciting or ...
Acupuncture involves inserting fine needles at particular points in your skin. The therapist may stimulate the needles manually, by heat (wi
Your general practitioner (GP or local doctor) is usually your main provider of health care. He or she should be your first point of ...
Whenever there’s unchecked systemic inflammation and typically that’s inflammation we can ...
Corticosteroids are used to treat inflammatory forms of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis.
An introduction to the most common types of surgery for rheumatoid arthritis (RA), including tips on when to talk to your doctor about ...
It’s hardly surprising that RA is linked with anxiety and depression. It’s tough living with regular pain and fatigue. It can affect
For each muscle group, tense for 10 seconds and release, taking a few deep breaths as you notice sensation that comes as those muscles relax
Opioid medicines can be used to reduce some types of pain, such as acute pain and chronic pain caused by cancer. H
There are 120 different kinds of arthritis. How do GPs identify which condition a person has?
Arthritis can affect many areas of the body such as the neck, shoulders, back, wrists and hands, hips, knees, ankle
Orthopaedic surgeons specialise in surgical treatments for problems caused by disease and injury (trauma) in the bones, joints and other...
Tocilizumab (brand name Actemra) belongs to a class of medicines called biological disease modifying antirheumatic drug
You know that arthritis affects your joints. In addition to your painful, swollen joints your arthritis can sometimes affect other parts of
Methotrexate attracts a lot of bad press due to the fact it is used in very high dosages for cancer treatment.
Suzie, who suffers from rheumatoid arthritis, found the courage to have a second child after having her first.
No diet has been proven by research to cure arthritis. Be very cautious of special diets or supplements that claim to cure arthritis ...
Finding the right professional for your needs is an important step to managing your arthritis condition.
Arthritis Today interviewed Suzie May, who authored the book Arthritis, Pregnancy and the Path to Parenthood. Here are some words of wisdom,
A rheumatologist is a doctor who specialises in the diagnosis and medical treatment of joint, muscle and bone disorders. Your GP will...
Wendy shares some of her remarkable experiences living with rheumatoid arthritis.
DMARDs are used to treat inflammatory forms of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
Blood tests can be useful to help diagnose some, but not all, types of arthritis. Always discuss your blood test results with your doctor.
Click here to access downloadable resources relating to arthritis which may be useful to you, your patients and loved ones.
Many people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) may experience trouble sleeping. With painful, stiff and sometimes swollen joints, you may find
Upadacitinib is a medicine used to treat symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
A GP will ask several questions to determine what kind of inflammation a patient may have.
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic health condition that can affect your physical health and your mental wellbeing
Joint symptoms may be a sign of rheumatoid arthritis, a serious condition that can cause permanent joint damage if treatment is delayed.
Certolizumab (brand name Cimzia) belongs to a lass of medicines called biological disease modifying antirheumatic drugs
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) imaging tests are used to look for signs of RA and to monitor the disease’s progression. These tests primarily...
Once treatment is started, it is important for patients to maintain close contact with their general practitioner and their rheumatologist
If these conditions aren’t treated early, unfortunately the inflammation that occurs can really cause quite devastating joint damage.
The first thing to do is to ask yourself: Why are you being active? Do you want to control your rheumatoid arthritis (RA) symptoms, lose ...
To those familiar with fatigue, the idea that it’s simply ‘feeling a bit tired’ is something of an understatement. The extreme exhaustion...
By taking an active role in understanding and treating your conditions, you will experience less pain and stay more active than those who fe
Physiotherapists are part of a team of healthcare professionals who can help you to resume or maintain an active and independent life...
While it can seem like a slow process, often that stepwise logical process of taking a ...
NSAIDs reduce inflammation, joint swelling and stiffness. They are often used to treat...
Read information about how to safely inject methotrexate, the steps to follow and the equipment you need.
Leflunomide (brand names Arabloc, Arava) is a medicine used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis.
Living with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) pain can feel like the glass is half empty. But negative thinking and expecting worse case scenarios
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a long-term condition where the body’s immune system...
In an age where so much information is available on the Internet; is it little wonder ...
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