National Arthritis Week takes place this year on 4-10 April. The theme this year is "Let's Get Physical!" and is based around physical activity and its importance for people living with arthritis. Arthritis Ireland is encouraging people living with arthritis to try even small amounts of physical activity, which they say can help you stay strong and remain independent. Being active can have a big impact on the health and wellbeing of people with arthritis.

“Physical activity is one of the most effective treatments to help manage arthritis. Although the pain from arthritis can make a person feel less like exercising, even a small amount or moderate amount of activity can help to relieve pain, stiffness and inflammation. Remember it doesn’t have to be a marathon. Even small amounts of physical activity can have a positive effect on symptoms. The key is start small and build up over time and don’t forget to seek advice and support from your healthcare professional – be it your GP or your Chartered Physiotherapist”, said the charity’s chief executive, Gráinne O’Leary.

What's happening?

We’re excited to be bringing back the 5km a Day challenge to coincide with our week-long campaign to raise awareness around arthritis. Last year we had runners, walkers and bikers all over the country hitting the road every day for 7 days straight, and the energy and positivity these guys shared throughout the week was really inspiring.

Click here to find out more and sign up

We welcome anybody to send us in a short video clip of yourself, a friend or family member taking part or finishing up whatever physical activity you or they are doing. We will do our best to post them out across our social media channels throughout the week. You can send them to [email protected]

Benefits of physical activity for people with arthritis | Online module

 

Karen Quinn, Clinical Specialist Physiotherapist in Rheumatology in Cork University Hospital

There will be a live online module hosted by the charity and the Irish Society of Chartered Physiotherapists on 7th April at 1pm. Karen Quinn, Clinical Specialist Physiotherapist in Rheumatology in Cork University Hospital will be guest speaker.

Registration for this event has now closed

Karen Quinn qualified as physiotherapist from University College Dublin in 1997. She completed a masters in Coventry University in 2005. She has been working as a Clinical Specialist physiotherapist in Rheumatology in Cork University Hospital since 2006. She was Chairperson of the Irish chartered physiotherapist rheumatology clinical interest group from 2014 to 2016.

Benefits of physical activity for people living with arthritis - Online videos

We will also be publishing a series of short exercise videos hosted by Karen Quinn across our social media channels and on our website across the week. These videos will present simple exercises which can be performed from the comfort of your own home or wherever you like!

Exercise 1 - Sit to stand

Exercise 2 - Arm strength

Exercise 3 - Leg Strength | Calves

Exercise 4 - Arm strength \ Modified press up

Exercise 5 - Balance training

Helpline

It has been a difficult and stressful couple of years and particularly for everyone in our community. As the Covid-19 protections are removed, it is possible that people may feel anxious and apprehensive about engaging with the outside world again. 

There may be increased pain and worsening symptoms due to isolation, lack of activity or increased pressure on joints due to comfort eating and lack of motivation.

Whatever you are feeling is likely being felt by thousands more around the country. For reliable support and information, call our trained helpline volunteers Monday to Friday 10am to 4pm on 0818 252 846 or email [email protected]