Your care team can be made up of many different strands, from health professionals to family, friends and Arthritis Ireland. Here's a look at some of the potential members and what they do:

• GP
• Rheumatologist
• Rheumatology Nurse
• Occupational Therapist
• Physiotherapist
• Social Worker
• Pharmacist
• Dietitian / Nutritionist
• Othopaedic Surgeon
• Chiropodist / Podiatrist
• Psychologist
• Opthamologist
• Arthritis Ireland

How can your GP help?
Your GP will take your health history and review your symptoms. To confirm the type of arthritis you have he or she will do a detailed health interview, a physical examination and tests such as blood work and x-rays. The information gathered will help to diagnose and develop your personal treatment plan. The GP will then discuss treatment options.

How can a Rheumatologist help?
Rheumatologists are doctors that specialise in treating people with arthritis or related diseases that affect the joints, muscles, bones, skin and other tissues. You may be referred to a rheumatologist if you need special care or treatment. They can also refer you to other relevant health professionals.

How can Rheumatology Nurse help?
Nurses who are trained in arthritis care can assist your doctor in your treatment. They can also offer structured patient and family education and support services, including a telephone helpline. Some nurses are also skilled in prescribing medications and joint injections.
 
How can an Occupational Therapist help?
Occupational Therapists (OTs) are health professionals who help people with arthritis to function independently - at home, in the workplace and in the community. They can teach you how to reduce strain on your joints while doing everyday activities, which may involve using splints or other assistive devices. OTs also teach practical stress management techniques to use in everyday life.

How can a Physiotherapist help?
The best way to find out what exercises are best for you is to see a chartered physiotherapist. Physiotherapists have a complete understanding of how the body works and will work with you to design a treatment plan and exercise programme that meets your needs. In addition to exercise, they may also use manual or electrotherapy to help with symptom control.

How can a Social Worker help?
Arthritis can affect many aspects of your life and, at times, can make simple tasks difficult. Family and friends may tell you how well you look - yet the truth is you are not feeling well. Social workers can help you and your family deal with these challenges.

How can a Pharmacist help?
Pharmacists are health professionals who dispense medications and can teach you the best way to use them. They will fill your prescription for medicines and can explain their actions and side effects.

How can a Dietitian/Nutritionist help?
Dietitians/Nutritionists can help people with arthritis learn ways to plan, prepare and eat balanced, nutritious meals that will help you in achieve and maintain a healthy body weight. Ensure that the person you see is a member of the Irish Nutrition and Dietetic Institute (INDI).

How can an Orthopedic Surgeon help?
An orthopedic surgeon is a doctor who is trained in surgical procedures that prevent or correct problems of the bones, joints and tissues around the joints. Remember that surgery for arthritis is seldom urgent but very helpful where there is severe disease.

How can a Chiropodist/Podiatrist help?
Chiropodists/Podiatrists specialise in conditions affecting the feet. They can help you with footwear; nail care and orthotics (shoe insoles) if you have arthritis in your feet, legs or lower spine.

How can a Dentist help?
Before embarking on any type of surgery or beginning treatment with one of the biologic agents, it is important that you visit your dentist for a check-up so that any infections, cavities etc can be treated.

How can a Psychologist help?
Psychologists can teach you ways to cope with any difficult emotions you feel as a result of your arthritis. They can also teach you techniques to assist with managing pain.

How can Family and Friends help?
Try to enlist the support of family and friends and develop a support network to help you cope with your condition.

How can Arthritis Ireland help?
Arthritis Ireland is the national support organisation for people with arthritis and their families. Various types of information and support programmes are available to help people cope and manage their disease.

If you feel that you need the expertise of any of the health professionals discussed, you should consult your GP and/or get details of a local professional. You can also contact the Arthritis Ireland helpline on 1890 252 846 for further information.