Arthritis literally means inflammation of the joint. It is a term that encompasses a wide variety of conditions. The most common type is osteoarthritis (OA) formally known as degenerative joint disease. Here the cartilage that protects the ends of the bones wears away.

Without the cartilage to keep the bones apart they grind together causing pain and stiffness. By the age of 50 most people will begin to show signs of OA on x-ray.

The other type of arthritis is known as inflammatory arthritis. This tends to be a hereditory disorder. Blood tests in addition to x-rays would usually be taken. Examples are rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis.

Basically, it's a matter of use it or lose it! Joints need mobility, without which muscles shorten, there is reduced synovial fluid in the joint and sensitivity to pain is increased.

• Heat can relieve pain ie. hot pools, hot bath or wheat packs. Wheat packs are great for putting directly on the painful area (except in the inflammatory stage of arthritis when occassionally cold may be more beneficial).
  

• Excercising in moderation - Walking and general excercise keeps you mobile. Don't push anything to the point of pain. Excercising in water is particularly beneficial as there is reduced bodyweight through the joints.
  

• Resting your body - stress affects the immune system and therefore the body's natural healing process
  

• Not standing for prolonged periods of time

• Maintaining a healthy balanced diet - some foods may irritate your arthritis (ie. citrus fruits). A good diet will also help to keep your weight under control. There are a variety of supplements available, although at this stage the evidence is anecdotal.
  
  

We have an informative and helpful 'Arthritis Foundation' - phone your local field officers on 571-0088 (mornings). They will usually come and visit you at your home and explain the services they offer.

The Mount Hot Pools are an excellent way of getting relief for your aches and pains. On Wednesday the hot pools run an aquaerobics class for arthritis sufferers. For the more active there are more energetic classes on Mondays and Thursdays. For more information Phone The Mount Hot Pools on 575 0868

Tai Chi is a slow and rhythmic excercise that helps mobility, stretching and general relaxation. Classes are held on Tuesdays 1-3pm or Thursdays 10am-12 midday at the Arataki Rugby Clubrooms. For more information phone the Tai Chi Society 578 9116.

Yoga is excellent for increased flexibility. Be careful to choose a class that caters for your needs. For more information contact the Tauranga Yoga Centre on Elizabeth Street. Phone 08324 1962.

Walking Groups - these are run by the arthritis foundation or the Mount Walkers and Joggers for the more active.

© Copyright, Mount Osteo. All rights reserved.