Put simply, self-management is managing your arthritis symptoms yourself using a variety of methods to address both the physical and mental impacts of the condition. Arthritis affects people differently, so self-management means individuals can choose the strategies that best suit their needs.
Keeping active
Staying active is essential for people with arthritis to strengthen the muscles around affected joints. Exercise can be as effective for pain as prescription painkillers, but getting started can be daunting. Beginning with something you enjoy, whether that’s walking, swimming or Tai Chi, means you’re more likely to carry on in the long term.
Pacing your activities
Living with arthritis can be exhausting and fatigue can set in. It’s important to rest during these periods, but not to overdo things to compensate when you have more energy.
It’s good to talk
Why not join our next Nottingham Arthritis Action Group on Thursday 5th March? We meet every six weeks and provide opportunities to meet others living with arthritis, share experiences and exchange tips and ideas in a friendly environment. We also welcome expert speakers on a range of topics.
Meetings are held at St Mary’s Church Wollaton Park, Wollaton Hall Drive, Nottingham, NG8 1AF from 2pm to 4pm. Forthcoming dates are Thursdays 5th March, 9th April and 14th May (please note these are subject to change). We welcome a £2 donation from attendees.
To find out more, please call us on 02037 817120 or email info@arthritisaction.org.uk.
Ruth Smith, Area Coordinator, Arthritis Action