Arthritis is a group of conditions involving damage to the joints of the body, effecting many Australians. There is no specific treatment yet.

Although this disease is more common to the elderly, children are also affected by this disease.

There are over 100 different forms of arthritis. Osteoarthritis, is the most common form. It is a degenerative joint disease which is Caused by trauma or infection of the joint, or as age. rheumatoid arthritis, septic arthritism, ankylosing spondfylitis, and osteoarthritis (the most common form of arthritis) This is degenerative joint desease) is a result of trauma to the joint, infection of the joint, or as age.

Arthritis pain is localized to the back, neck, hip, knee or feet. The pain from arthritis occurs around the joint, damage to the joint from disease, daily wear and tear of joint, muscles strains caused by forceful movements against stiff, painful joints and fatigue.

Some studies have shown that evidence consuming the commonly - eaten NightShade plants (tomatoes, potatoes, eggplant, bell pepper family, and tobacco) is the causing factors in arthritis.

What do we do?? Individuals with arthritis can definitely benefit from both pysical and occupational therapy.

Physical therapy involves use of ice, heating pads as well as ultraslound guided massage therapy.

Occupational therapy can also teach you how to reduce stress on your joint from daily living activities. How to modify your home and work environment so that you do reduce movements that may worsen your arthritis.

Self movtivation to help with symtoms of arthritis is an important factor. Save the time. Do it yourself. Do somthing that you like for a change - go for a walk, read listen to music or surf the net. Spending time by yourself will help help you reduce stress and reflect on your disorder

Relaxing is one of the best ways to cope with arthritis. Techniques for relaxation include hypnosis, acupunture, imagery, yoga or thi chi. All techniques easy to learn and can be done at home. For further information speak to your general practioner or visit just one of many institues that can assist you further.

www.rheumatology.org.au - holding a meeting with solutions for this disease.

ABSTRACTS PRESENTED AT BJD MEETING
BONE AND JOINT DISEASE
Solutions for the 21st Century
Held on Saturday 18th October
Aikenhead Conference Centre, St Vincents Hospital, Fitzroy
Presented by AUSTRALIAN RHEUMATOLOGY ASSOCIATION
VICTORIAN BRANCH
In association with THE BONE AND JOINT DECADE