Arthritis Resources, Tools, & Hope:
Real Impact Through Information & Support
(ARTHRITIS)
What is Arthritis?
"Arthritis is more than just wear and tear or an old person’s disease. Find out about the different types of arthritis.
"Arthritis is very common but is not well understood. Actually, “arthritis” is not a single disease; it is an informal way of referring to joint pain or joint disease. There are more than 100 types of arthritis and related conditions. People of all ages, sexes, and races can and do have arthritis, and it is the leading cause of disability in America. Nearly 60 million adults and 300,000 children have some type of arthritis. It is most common among women and occurs more frequently as people get older. something about so many types (which ones I have)"
- More info from Arthritis Foundation
What is AiArthritis?
"Combined, there are over 100 autoimmune diseases, autoinflammatory diseases, and conditions that may involve some form of arthritis - but only a few (including some that are rare) - feature inflammation-driven arthritis as a major clinical component early in onset ("Autoimmune Arthritis" and "Autoinflammatory Arthritis", or AiArthritis). While the arthritis component unites these diseases, because they are autoimmune and autoinflammatory in nature, they affect more than just the joints. The inflammation travels through the bloodstream, so these diseases affect the whole body, including tissues and organs."
- More info from International Foundation for Autoimmune & Autoinflammatory Arthritis (AiArthritis)
Arthritis Types
"Arthritis is inflammation of one or more of the joints. Arthritis is one of the most common causes of disability in the U.S., as the disease can severely limit function and negatively impact quality of life. The main symptoms are joint pain and stiffness, which typically worsen with age. There are over 100 different forms of arthritis"
- More info from CreakyJoints
Support
Getting diagnosed with a chronic illness like arthritis can affect just about every aspect of life, far beyond the physical symptoms. It can be especially difficult if it feels like no one else really understands. That's why it's important to find ways to connect with other arthritis warriors. Here are some great opportunities:
- AiArthritis Voices Talk Show - Join us for our regularly scheduled shows airing the 1st of the month at 9am EST/USA. Then tune in to our other special break out series shows, which will air on a variety of platforms and times (including as an audio podcast, webinar, YouTube, Facebook Live, and even in person!)
- CreakyChats - #CreakyChats is a monthly, patient-driven Twitter discussion that explores topics that are important to the chronic disease community. During a one-hour moderated chat, we provide a space for people to discuss pressing issues facing the arthritis/chronic disease community.
- CreakyJoints Podcast Network - GHLF is embracing audio storytelling as part of our mission to reach the chronic disease patient community where they are.
- Fibromyalgia Impact Tour - Support Fibromyalgia is expanding our education tour events virtually in order to engage people living with Fibromyalgia and overlapping autoimmune conditions. These virtual events on focused on food insecurity, quality of life, rural and food desert living, Functional Medicine, and more!
- Live Yes! with Arthritis Podcast - Join the conversation with the Arthritis Foundation’s podcast – Live Yes! With Arthritis . Hosted by arthritis patients, Rebecca and Julie, this unique podcast invites you to learn and laugh together with a community who really gets what you are going through.
- Live Yes! Connect Groups - There are others in your local community who understand. Connect virtually to make new friends, share tips and get answers and support.
- Live Yes! Online Community - Chat about what matters most to you. Offer support, get encouragement and share experiences and advice. The Arthritis Foundation’s Online Community is here for you 24/7.
- Living With RA: Lecture, Lunch, & Conversation - This monthly group program provides education and support for people with moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis and their family members and friends. Lectures by rheumatoid arthritis care experts are followed by discussion facilitated by a clinical social worker and rheumatology nurse.
Mark Your Calendars:
- Arthritis Awareness Month (May)
- Fibromyalgia Awareness Day (May 12)
- World AUTOimmune & AUTOinflammatory Arthritis Day (May 20),
- World Arthritis Day (October 12),
- Juvenile Arthritis Awareness Month (July)
- Other Upcoming Events