Understanding Arthritis
‘Arthritis’ refers to a range of conditions that affect the muscles, bones and joints. There are over 100 different conditions associated with arthritis, and they can have many different symptoms and causes. Arthritis is often associated with elderly people, but it can affect people of all ages and backgrounds.
It’s important to work with your health professional to understand what type of arthritis you have so you can manage it well.
Symptoms of Arthritis
Everyone experiences arthritis differently, but most people have issues with their major joints like the ankles, knees, hips, elbows and wrists.
Common symptoms include:
- Ongoing pain, stiffness, swelling or heat in one or more joints. This might be particularly bad in the morning, or persist throughout the day
- Fatigue, fever or generally feeling unwell
- Unexplained weight loss.
The symptoms of arthritis can come and go. They often get worse over time if left untreated, so it’s important to speak to a doctor early if you have any symptoms.
Diagnosing and Managing Arthritis
Your doctor will ask you questions about your symptoms, health and lifestyle to diagnose arthritis. A lot of conditions can cause joint issues, so you might need blood tests or scans of your affected joints to rule out other causes.
There is no cure for arthritis, but living well with arthritis is entirely possible. Small adjustments can help make sure your condition isn’t aggravated by daily life. You may need to work with a team of healthcare professionals like physiotherapists, occupational therapists, podiatrists and dieticians.
Treating and managing arthritis is unique to every individual and how your symptoms affect your life. What works for other people might not be best for you, so it’s always best to talk to your healthcare team if you want to try something new.
Country Care Group – finding the best solutions for you
At Country Care Group we have the experience and passion to help you live well with arthritis. We’ll work with you and your health care team to make sure you’re getting supports that are right for you.
Here are some of our team’s most-recommend products for living well with arthritis.
Around the house
Bathroom and personal care
Kitchen essentials
Getting support
There is funding available to help you afford the services and equipment you need. Talk to your doctor about how much support you will need now and into the future.
Many medical treatments for arthritis are made free or more affordable through Medicare and the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).
You may be eligible for the National Disability Insurance Scheme if your condition is a permanent and significant disability. Here at Country Care Group, we have expert NDIS Ambassadors and product showrooms to help you navigate the Scheme and find the supports you need.
If you are over 65 or not eligible for the NDIS, you may be able to receive supports in the home through aged care services, or through the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Arthritis is the second-leading cause of early retirement due to illness in Australia. There are supports available in the workplace to make it possible for you to stay in work for longer. Find out more at JobAccess.
Mobility Supports
The pain and stiffness associated with arthritis can make it difficult to move and walk around.
Some types of arthritis involve flare ups of pain or stiffness that only affect your mobility occasionally. If this is the case, you might want something simple like a walker or cane. These are low-cost, smaller items that can take pressure off your affected joints when you need it.
Alternatively, a motorised wheelchair or scooter can be a great option for staying independent and mobile if you have more difficulty with movement or get out and about a lot.
Whatever your lifestyle, Country Care Group can help you find the right fit. We build and sell high-quality, user-tested mobility supports, and offer free safety and orientation programs so you can get moving with confidence.
For a personalised consultation, visit your local store , or get in touch today.
Home modifications
Changes around the home can make a big difference to your pain management and independence. If arthritis affects your mobility, you might consider ramps, rails or changes to your bathroom to keep you safe and confident in your home.
Country Care Group provide a home modification service tailored to you and your needs. Our qualified trades specialists work with you, your health professionals and architects to make your home safe and accessible.
Get in touch today
Whether you’re looking for some simple tools to make things a bit easier around the house, or you’re navigating the NDIS for the first time, our expert staff are here for you.
Contact us today so we can work with you to manage your arthritis and get the most out of life.
