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ON THE EDITION 1 - 2014 www.arthritissa.org.au JOIN THE GREAT ESCAPE LOTTERY TIARA TRECKERS UNDERSTANDING FIBROMYALGIA

Transcript of on the - Arthritis SA - Homepage · PDF fileExercise & fibromyalgia 4-5 Feature story -...

on theedition 1 - 2014

www.arthritissa.org.au

JoIn the Great escape lottery

tIara treckers

understandInGFIbromyalGIa

ATTENTION ARTHRITIS

SUFFERERS

1800 851 888rosehipvital.com.au

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Vision Statement“To improve the quality of life of people with arthritis and related conditions.”

Mission Statement“To be recognised as the leading provider in SA that empowers people with arthritis and related conditions. To achieve the best quality of life through advocacy, education, self-management and the support of research.”

Aims• toprovidefundsforresearchprogramsinordertofinda

cure and better treatments.

• togivepracticaladviceandsupporttopeoplewitharthritis and other musculoskeletal conditions and their carers.

• toorganiseeducationprogramsforpeopleaffectedby arthritis and other musculoskeletal conditions, their families and carers, health professionals and awareness in the wider community.

contents

Arthritis Foundation of South Australia inc.incorporating osteoporosis SA118 Richmond Road, Marleston SA 5033

telephone: (08) 8379 5711Country Free Call: 1800 011 041 Fax: (08) 8379 5707email: [email protected]

Website: www.arthritissa.org.auABn: 53 784 654 861

editor Julie Black telephone: (08) 8379 5711 email: [email protected] enquiries telephone: (08) 8379 5711 email: [email protected] Celdesigns telephone: 0412 824 463 email: [email protected]

diSCLAiMeR: Views expressed by contributors to on the Move, and advertisements appearing in the publication, are not necessarily endorsed by the Arthritis Foundation of South Australia.

Arthritis SA values your donations to help provide services and support to the many thousands of South Australians who suffer from musculoskeletal conditions. Donations can be made using the enclosed donation envelope or by telephone on (08) 8379 5711 or Country Freecall 1800 011 041. Alternatively, secure online donations can be made at www.arthritissa.org.au

Events & Happenings Inside front cover

CEO’s Report 2

President’s Report 3

Fibromyalgia & behaviour treatments 4

Exercise&fibromyalgia 4-5

Featurestory-Jacquie 6

Usefulwebsites 6

10 Tips to living with Chronic fatigue 7

Gluten free slice 7

Live Well, Work Well, Feel Well Program 8

TheTiaraTrekkers-OurStory 9

Kidsflixnews 10

AskArthritisSA 11

A big thankyou 11

People’s Choice Community Lottery 12

Great Escpape Lottery 12

Appeal letter 13 Events & Happenings Back page

valued donatIons

ATTENTION ARTHRITIS

SUFFERERS

1800 851 888rosehipvital.com.au

ROSE-HIP VITAL® WITH GOPO® IMPORTED FROM DENMARK IS A POWERFUL ANTI-OXIDANT AND MAY HELP:

Temporarily relieve the pain of Arthritis, Osteoarthritis and Rheumatism

Increase joint mobility

Relieve inflammation and joint swelling

Improve Osteoarthritis symptoms in the hands

Improve sleep when affected by joint discomfort

Improve the symptoms of lower back pain®

Rose-Hip Vital® is the only product in Australia which tests for the patented Galactolipid GOPO® component

Available from pharmacies & health food stores

Always use as directed. If symptoms persist consult your healthcare professional.

CHC 42526-05/12

ceo’s report Julie black

Welcome to the first edition of our ‘on the Move’ member magazine for 2014.Arthritis SA is already off to a great start to the year with our ‘Take Charge of Pain’ courses and workplace programs in full roll out. In addition, there are now 29 ‘Pharmacy Aware’ pharmacies operating the ‘Take Action on Pain’ programs at local community level.

Arthritis SA is there to support people with arthritis and with one in four South Australians suffering from arthritis, our role is extremely important to not only support these people, but also ensure that money is available for essential research.

how your money is spent?It is important that when donors generously gift money to Arthritis SA, they know that their money is spent wisely. Over the last year, Arthritis SA has doubled its contribution to research. In addition to the $100,000 to both local and national research programs, a grant of $10,000 was provided to the ARA state branch to support young rheumatologists in the area of research. This award was presented at the state meeting to Dr. Mihir Wechalekar from the Department of Rheumatology, Repatriation General Hospital, Daws Road.

Our major focus has been to develop and support the important support groups. Regular meetings are held by our groups with the LSS group facilitating a full day conference in May at Arthritis House. In particular, we have been working closely with our special children who suffer from arthritis and their families. In November last year, 300 people attended our zoo day and we have a number of events planned for this year that will see the children and their families enjoy a great day together.

If you need any information on arthritis or would like to attend out support groups please do not hesitate to contact one of our arthritis advisors on (08) 8379 5711.

arthritis Week 2014 “time to move” Arthritis Week ‘Time to Move’ 2014 will be launched at Parliament House in Canberra on Monday 24th March 2014 which will link in with the national exercise program. Arthritis has no barriers and affects the very young to the very old. It has no boundaries and is a painful condition. Arthritis SA is here to support all people with arthritis and I ask you to help us by making a donation today.

vale stephen charles milazzo ao 18/05/1927 - 24/01/2014Arthritis SA wishes to acknowledge the immense dedication and commitment of Dr. Milazzo in the early years of Arthritis SA. Dr. Milazzo was a driving force in establishing Arthritis SA and was a renowned rheumatologist. He was awarded an AO QB in 1989 for service to medicine, particularly in thefieldofrheumaticandarthriticdiseases and was a life member of Arthrtiis SA.

Stephen Charles Milazzo AO18 May 1927 – 24 January 2014

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ceo’s report presIdent’s report colette smith

With over 120 different types of Arthritis, the impact of arthritis on the community and an individual cannot be underestimated.

Having suffered from severe arthritis for over 20 years and as President of Arthritis SA, I am totally committed to ensuring we support research both at a state and national level. To this extent our board have approved an investmentthisfinancialyearofover$200,000specificallytoresearch.Atnationallevel,ascientificandmedicalcommittee review applications from all over Australia and our contribution of $100,000 is invested wisely.

At a local level Dr. Elizabeth Hoon has been appointed at the University of Adelaide to work closely with our own staff to ensure Arthritis

SA education programs are fully evaluated and evidence based. An example of this was our recent pilot workplace program ‘Live Well, Work Well Feel Well’. This unique program received ethics approval from the University of Adelaide and was piloted at SA Power Network, Hindmarsh Plumbing and the RAA. Areas covered in the program included goal setting, how to treat pain, lifestyle factorsthatinfluencepain,wellnessand workplace considerations. The results of the evaluation of this program have been exciting and impressive and will now be used to roll out the program more widely.

With our new 2013-2016 strategic plan driving our business units, our health services staff has developed a plan for 2014 to provide support and services at local community level. With many workshops and seminars beingheldatourofficesatMarleston,we are also mindful of providing our services locally to people with arthritis, either through our support groups or holding sessions in the suburbs. These can be found on our website or by contacting Arthritis SA on 08 8379 5711.

On a national level we are delighted to be involved with a national exercise program that is now in the development stage and a model of care for children with arthritis.

We also congratulate David Motteram AOM, who was recently elected onto the independent board of Arthritis Australia. David has made a huge contribution to Arthritis SA for well over a decade and we have been fortunate to have had his support and efforts for such a long time. As a consequence of David’s success in being elected to the national board he has had to resign from the board of Arthritis SA. We thank David for his amazing contribution to Arthritis SA.

Arthritis SA is well positioned for an exciting2014,specificallyintheareaof research and I ask you to make your donation today to help us make a real difference to the one in four people in our state who suffer from arthritis

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FIbromyalGIa & behavIour treatments

exercIse & FIbromyalGIa

Widespread pain, fatigue, memory concentration problems and sleep issues are all common symptomsoffibromyalgia(FM).As there is no cure at present, treatments target the relief of symptoms and improvements in people’s ability to go about their normal activities.

A large review (by the Cochrane Collaboration, 2013) has recently been published looking at whether cognitive behavioural therapies (CBTs) are effective in managing FM. CBTs focus on reducing symptoms, improving daily function, mood and sense of personal control over pain. This review looked at evidence from 23 studies, which provided CBT treatment to a total of 2,031 people with FM.

The review found that after 12 weeks, CBT people reported a small reduction in pain, negative moods and disability. This slight improvement continued six monthslater.Thespecificresults

do however indicate only small positive impacts, with people who used CBTs rating their pain 0.5 points lower (on a scale of 0-10) at the end of treatment, and 0.6 points lower at six months follow-up. People who used CBT still rated pain as 6.9 points (on a scale of 0-10) compared to 7.9 for people who did not use CBT. The results were similar for impact on depressed mood; while there was slight improvement for those who used CBT, they still rated their negative mood as 6.1 on the scale of 0-10. Small positive improvements were also found for disability.

Theresultsofthisreviewfitwithother studies which show that treatments for FM tend to have small impacts. The authors found that CBTs were no more effective than other active treatments such as aerobic exercise for reducing symptoms of FM, and there are access issues for CBT tied to expense and location of CBT service providers. On

the plus side, compared with pharmacotherapy (drug based treatment), CBTs are safe.

The included trials were generally of low quality, so future high-quality (large) studies may give a different estimate of treatment impact. It is also important that research into the causes of FM continues so that the underlying problems can be addressed in treatment.

Arthritis SA facilitates three Sunday Sessions a year with a speaker on relevant topics for peoplewithfibromyalgia.Formore information visit www.arthritissa.org.au1.Bernardy K, Klose P, Busch AJ, Choy EHS, Hauser W. 2013 Cognitive behavioural therapies for fibromyalgia (Review), The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Issue 9. John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Regular exercise is one of the most important things you can dotomanagefibromyalgia,even though it may be the last thing you feel like doing. Research shows that people with fibromyalgiawhoexercisehave:

• lesspainandfewertenderpoints

• higherlevelsoffitness

• greaterabilitytododailytasks

• reducedstressanddepression

Exercise can also help you maintain a healthy body weight, strengthen your bones and

improve the health of your heart and blood vessels. It can also improve your sleep and energy levels.

Manypeoplewithfibromyalgiaare anxious about exercising because they are scared about making the pain worse. However, research shows that people withfibromyalgiacansafelyparticipate in regular, appropriate exercise without worsening their symptoms.

What types of exercise can you try?There are many activities that are safe and effective for people

withfibromyalgia.Anyactivitythat works your muscles a bit harder or causes you to ‘puff’ a little, without increasing your pain or other symptoms, will be beneficial.Chooseactivitiesthatyou enjoy and are convenient. Activities that are particularly usefulinclude:

Aerobic exerciseResearch has shown that regular aerobic exercise improves fitnessandreducespainandfatigue (tiredness) in people with fibromyalgia.Aerobicexerciseisanyactivitythatgetyou‘puffing’gently and your heart beating

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a little faster. Examples include walking, swimming, water exercise classes, cycling and dancing.

Strength training:Muscle weakness is very common infibromyalgia.Acombinationofpain, fatigue and inactivity often leads to weaker and wasted muscles. This can make it even moredifficulttodoyournormaldaily activities. Research has shown that strength training can reduce pain and other symptoms inpeoplewithfibromyalgia.Strength training involves working your muscles a little harder than you do in normal life. You do this by working with hand weights, leg weights, gym machines, resistance bands or even just your own body weight (eg. Doing push-ups, squats, exercises in standing). The key to successful strength training isto:

• startwithsupervisionfromaqualifiedhealthorexerciseprofessional who understands fibromyalgiatomakesureyouare doing the best exercises for your condition and strength

• learntherightwaytodotheexercises and how much resistance to add

• startbyliftinglightweightsandslowly increase the weight over time, only as you feel able

Yoga, Pilates and tai Chi:These gentle activities can be particularly helpful for people withfibromyalgia,tohelpimproveflexibility,strength,balanceandfeeling of relaxation.

Peoplewithfibromyalgiashouldgenerally avoid activities that involve fast, sudden movements and high impact activities, such as running and jumping, although some people may progress to this level of activity.

Getting started:Whenyoufirststartexercising,get advice and supervision from a physiotherapist or other exercise professional. A physiotherapist or exercise physiologist can suggest safe exercises tailored to your condition and ability. They will also ensure you are doing your exercises correctly to avoid injury.

Peoplewithfibromyalgiamayfindthattheirpainandtirednessincreasesinitiallywhenfirststarting to exercise. If this is the case, cut back the amount of exercise you are doing until you findalevelthatyoucancopewith.It can be hard to predict how your body will cope with a new activity. The most important thing to do is listen to your body. A general guide is the ‘two hour pain rule’ – if you have extra or unusual pain for more than two hours after

exercising, you’ve done too much. Next time you exercise, slow down or do less. See a physiotherapist or exercise physiologist for further adviceifyouarefindingitdifficultto get started.

Always start gently and build slowly.Whenyoufirststart,domuch less than you think you will be able to manage. If you cope well with that level, do a little bit more next time and keep building gradually.

You should stop exercising if it is causing you unusual pain or increases your pain beyond what is normal for you. Exercising through this type of pain may lead to injury orworseningofyourfibromyalgiasymptoms. Many people with fibromyalgiahavesomeamountof pain all the time. This is not a reason to avoid exercise. You should only stop if you notice extra or unusual pain while you are exercising.

Always start your exercise by doing some gentle movements to prepare your muscles and joints for the activity. This will help prevent pain and injury. You may finditusefultouseheatpacksorwarm showers before and /or after activity to loosen up stiff joints and muscles.

Exercise is safe and beneficial for people with fibromyalgia.

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‘How are you?’ ‘How is your day?’ are greetings we so casually respond to, but how honest are the replies? Mostly we put on a brave face and say,‘OhI’mfinethanks!’Formanythe pain is unrelenting and relief is hardtofind.

Arthritis is not selective in who it attacks, or sympathetic to the agony it causes. This is well known by many, including Jacquie.

Jacquie was in her 40s when she began to experienced extreme fatigueand‘flu-likesymptoms’some7 years ago. More often Jacquie founditdifficulttoperformthemostsimplest of tasks, such as getting out of bed, holding a cup of tea and running errands. A moment that changed her life forever was when her children had to help her get out of the car. She knew then, that something was not right.

Being unable to keep up with her daily schedule of work and looking after her children, Jacquie took some time off. Jacquie sought the help of her GP and health professionals which allowed her to get through this difficulttime.

This was a tough time for Jacquie.

She didn’t want to be labelled with a condition, and felt a great loss. Her diagnosis was hard to process, and Jacquie felt overwhelmed with grief.

Jacquie says,

“All of a sudden you’re not the same

person you used to be. I went down both physically and emotionally.”

By maintaining communication with her GP, Jacquie was ultimately diagnosed with Fibromyalgia and was able to slowly rebuild her life.

In conjunction with her GP and Jacquie’s background of working with people with chronic health conditions, she was able to modify and adjust the tasks she was experiencing difficultieswithtomakelifeeasierfor herself. It also gave her a chance to explore other techniques such as pacing, setting goals and positive thinking to achieve the things she previously enjoyed doing, which also included her passion for working as a physicalrehabilitationfitnessleaderwith the older person and playing with her new grandchildren.

Jacquie’s diagnosis guided her in a new direction. It was a time Jacquiereflectedonherlife,andgave her greater awareness of what her priorities were. It gave her the opportunity to reassess her personal life and career. Jacquie decidedtostudyforaCertificateIVin Community Services, which led her to working with socially isolated people at SA Health.

Jacquie currently works as a Health PromotionsOfficeratArthritisSAandnow delivers the “Take Charge of Pain” course.

The course allows participants to gain knowledge on different

strategies to deal with pain, and buildtheskillsandconfidencetoimplement positive changes to help reduce pain. In particular Jacquie findsthecoursereinforcesherself-management practices and often comes away with a new tip or idea to help with her self mangement.

From delivering the Take Charge of Pain course, it has reinforced Jacquie to listen to her body, and she continues to be proactive in putting strategies in place for dealing with herflaresbeforetheyoccur.

Jacquie continues to work with her GP and other health professionals; she has acknowledged and accepted her health condition, its challenges and the ongoing self-management. Jacquie understands that it is really important to keep a positive outlook and to say “no to activities she is unable to do” without feeling guilty.

Jacquie believes that all of this has happened for a reason and has been able to share her story and experiences of her journey with others. She has found a new passion for life with being able to self-manage affectively enabling her to enjoy work, life and her lovely grandchildren.

Asking ‘how are you?’ or ‘how is your day’ are so one sided that we thought it was time you told us how you really felt, to reply what it’s like for you….?

We know some people feel isolated not wanting to complain and instead, suffer in silence. Not any more…

Feature story - JacquIe & FIbromyalGIa

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Gluten Free slIce

1. do not judge your activity levels in relation to other people’s

2. Let people know about your condition so you can get support when you need it

3. Visit your doctor regularly

Do not try the same treatment, if it failed. Many primary physicians have a regular series of advice, treatments and regimens mostly geared toward sedentary, normal peopleimprovingtheirhealth.Thesecanbetoodifficultand humiliating, so don’t torture yourself trying what didn’t work again and again.

Taking long walks does not help chronic fatigue, but may mean that you can’t keep up with the dishes or brush your teeth for a couple of days resting up.

Keep personal written records of all treatments, regimens and medications that had adverse effects. It’s a long slog tofindtherightmedicationsforanychronicillnessandyou don’t need to repeat failed trials.

Bring a healthy (family member) caregiver to your doctor appointments who can explain your condition and bring the doctor up to speed on the results of your medications and treatments. Work with your caregiver before going so that you’re sure he or she has the information memorised. It gets complex sometimes, and doctors may not listen to what a sufferer says. They will listen to the healthy people who live with the patient, so bring someone else as your interpreter, or you may be ignored while the doctor tries to judge your tone of voice or body language for clues or symptoms. They will always look for the most common cause of symptoms, which is why chronic fatigue is so often mistaken for lack of activity, exercise and will power.

4. eat the right foods

5. Limit stress

Being chronically ill is stressful enough in itself, and many doctors believe that stress could be a contributor to CFS symptoms. So, when at all possible, make things easy on

yourselfbykeepingyourscheduleflexibleasyourgoals.

6. do as you can without stress

Doing a little is better than doing nothing – in bad times it can boost your morale and keep you from getting lethargic, and in good times it can help you to build up your endurance.

7. don’t be ashamed to rest

The fact is that you’re not able to manage as much as others – accept it and don’t push yourself too hard. Others had better accept you as you are, because you are dealing with a physical limitation as real as a missing limb. They need to know that, so don’t hide it and pretend thingsarefine.

8. identify triggers

Work with your physician to try and to identify some things that bring about the more intense symptoms. For instance, many people with CFS have dietary, environmental or chemical sensitivities. The more of these you understand the better you can live. Some are avoidable, like food sensitivities. Others aren’t, but at least you can look at the weather predictions and know whether to even try to make it to an event.

9. explore alternative therapies

Many sufferers have found that alternative medicine has really helped alleviate their symptoms. Acupuncture, homeopathy, reiki and hypnotherapy to name a few could make a difference; however, remember that every sufferer is different and you may need to experiment to uncover a treatment that works for you.

10. Find other sufferers

More and more doctors are recognising the reality of this illness, which means more people are actively dealing with their condition. There are organisations dedicated to supporting those with your condition, and they can help you feel that you are not alone.

10 tIps to lIvInG WIth chronIc FatIGue

6 eggs

1 large zucchini grated

1 carrot grated

1/2 onion finely diced

1/2 cup grate cheese.

300g thinly sliced bacon

Pinch of nutmeg and baking powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Beat the eggs in a large bowl the add nutmeg, salt, pepper and baking powder. then softly stir all ingredients together. Place in lined tin and back for 25mins at 180 degrees. then slice for lunch

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Australian companies have been slow to adopt workplace wellness programs compared to other countries where medical costs are the direct responsibility of the employer.

To address this, Arthritis SA has developed and piloted the ‘Live Well, Work Well, Feel Well’ program designed as a sustainable workforce program with a focus on education and early intervention that could be tailored for individual work places and participants.

Theprojecthasthreemaingoalsto:

•Educateemployersandemployeesabout the pain associated with musculoskeletal diseases or arthritis and osteoporosis.

•Equipandempowerstaffwhohavechronic conditions with strategies to reduce pain and increase mobility so that they can continue their valuable contribution within the workplace and community.

•Encourageindividualstoidentifyand pursue their personal goals in self-management of their chronic condition and to focus on their

wellness and wellbeing.

Four sessions were held at three organisations with numbers of attendancerangingfromfivetotwentyfive.A45minutepresentationon understanding pain and self-management was presented and was well received, with positive evaluations on the value of the session provided at the end of the program.

Initially each participant was seen facetofaceonthefirstvisitandthenthe option of continuing face to face follow up or telephone follow up was provided.

Participantsidentifiedkeyareastheywished to work on with the assistance of a health coach and were provided with a self-directed resource booklet and support.

Each participant was provided with a pre and post questionnaire as part of the evaluation strategy.

1.Modeofquestionnairedelivery:Both pre and post questionnaires were emailed to the participants prior to commencement of the program.

2. A systematic approach to

tracking participants through pre and post questionnaires using a specialidentificationcodewasnotimplemented at this time. The use of work emails to return questionnaires meant that respondents’ data were easily identifiedandthiswillbereviewed.

Overall, post questionnaires and surveys indicate positive changes for participants. When asked whether their goals had been achieved, all participants reported some success, with 60% identifying either ‘quite a bit’ or ‘complete’ success.

Feedback from participants noted the value of the program and a three-month follow up will identify any reduction in absenteeism as a result of the program.

With the pilot program being viewed as a great success, Arthritis SA will now work with companies to roll out this exciting opportunity.

Arthritis SA would like to acknowledgeandthank:

SA Power Networks

Hindmarsh Plumbing

RAA

lIve Well, Work Well, Feel Well proGram

thank you natIonal pharmacIesVisit a national Pharmacies store near you in March and purchase a tube squeezer

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the tIara trekkers - our story

Strong, successful women and close friends for more than 30 years, ‘the tiara trekkers’ have shared the highs and lows of a lifetime together.

In 1989 at age 21, “Trekker” Tracey became extremely ill after a knee operationtofixasportinginjury,andwas subsequently diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. Over the last 25 years (most of her adult life), Tracey hasexperiencedfirsthandthemanychallenges that living with a chronic illness can present.

Tracy says “Living with rheumatoid arthritis can have a profound affect on a person’s life. Over the last 25 years, I have become acutely aware that arthritis touches everyone, not just the elderly. Every person I meet is either directly affected by arthritis or has a family member, friend or colleague that has the disease. Taking part in this challenge with my lifelong friends will be a great way to commemorate my 25-year milestone. It is also a fantastic way to help raise theprofileofArthritisSA,enjoyanexperience of a lifetime and raise much-needed funds to improve the quality of life for so many people”.

A treasured friendship and no strangers to adventure, ‘The Tiara Trekkers’ will set off from Adelaide on the 5th to 17th September, where they will trek across the Indian Himalayan region. The money raised from this challenge will help make a difference to the one in four South Australians who are challenging pain on a daily basis and will contribute directly to help fund Arthritis research programs.

You can make a difference! Join the Arthritis Joint Effort: 2014 India Trek, and help us improve the quality of life of South Australians with arthritis.Take in some of the amazing sights and sounds of India with this 12 day journey through northern India commencing in Delhi and travelling through the breath-taking beauty of the Indian Himalaya.

As part of the trip, you will embark on a five-day trek with the Arthritis SA team visiting McLeod Ganji, home of the Dalai Lama along the way. Finish your Indian experience with a dawn visit to the iconic Taj Mahal.The funds you raise as part of the 2014 Indian Trek will help improve the quality of life for South Australians with arthritis.

Arthritis Joint Effort: 2014 India Trek 5 - 17 September 2014

Registrations for the trek can be made online at www.arthritissa.org.au or email Sue Lear for more information: [email protected]

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You can ensure that vital research continues in thefightagainstarthritisbymakingabequestto the Arthritis Foundation of South Australia.

Asignificantproportionofpublicdonationsreceived by the Arthritis Foundation of South Australia are in the form of bequests. Making a bequest may be as simple as adding a

codicil to your will, but seek the advice of your solicitor. To receive a bequest brochure or suggested wording for your bequest to Arthritis Foundation of South Australia, please call DonorRelationsOfficeron(08)83795711or Country Freecall 1800 011 041

bequests

KidsflixisanationalprogramofArthritisSA.Itisafree charity event for children with a disability, chronic illness or social disadvantage and their families. Beginning with an hour of children’s entertainment and followed by a new release movie with free popcorn anddrink,theKidsflixcommunityisoneofsharedunderstanding and acceptance of others in similar situations.

TheKidsflixprogramcontinuestogrow,andin2014therewillbe30Kidsflixeventsheldaroundregionaland metropolitan Australia in 6 states from Western Australia to Tasmania.

In 2013 thousands of children and their families attendedKidsflixeventsaroundAustraliaandexperiencedanoutoftheordinarydayinafunfilled,supportive environment. They were provided with an opportunity to have an experience that other families takeforgranted.AKidsflixdayismorethanjustamovie.Kidsflixtakesoverthewholecinema.Onarrival the families are greeted by face painters and balloon twisting clowns, fairies with bubbles and fun entertainers like the Amazing Drumming Monkeys. Often there are giant games to play or special craft activities to make. After an hour of fun and games, the families are provided with popcorn and drinks and ushered through to see a new release children’s

movie.

Whilst heading off to the movies may not seem like abigdealtomanyofus,tothosewhoattendKidsflixit is so much more than a simple morning out. These events make a real difference to the lives of these families.ManyfamilieswhoattendKidsflixtakethetime to write to Arthritis SA and say thank you to the organisation for hosting the events and the supporters who make it possible. One such family wrote to thank us for the opportunity and shared that her 10 year old son with arthritis had leant over and whispered to his mum that they were “just like a real family going to the movies”. This was something that they had never been able to afford.

Formany,itisthechildren’sfirstmovieexperiencethat allows them to be in a venue where others don’t getfrustratedhavingspecialneedschildrenfidgeting,talking or moving around.

Show your support today and sponsor a child to attend aKidsflixeventnearyoubysimplyvisiting

arthritissa.org.auandclickon‘Kidsflix’then‘VisityourlocalKidsflixorcall0883795711orcountryfreecall1800 011 041.

kIdsFlIx neWs

GaraGe sale ‘mad march’ $2 book sale, bbq & so much more sat 22nd march, 2014 9am to 4pm

Looking for information online? the following websites may assist you. the websites listed do not necessarily reflect the views of Arthritis SA.

Learn more about pain and visit the Chronic Pain Australia website

http://www.chronicpainaustralia.org.au

For useful tips on pain management visit the Pain Health website

http://painhealth.csse.uwa.edu.au/

Arthritis Australia offers a wide number of fact sheets on pain and an overview of all research programs funded by Arthritis Australia

https://www.myjointpain.org.au/

More than medication is an excellent website that provides a range of information on understanding medications

https://www.morethanmedication.com.au/

Arthritis SA has a website that contains extra information on all our activities

www.arthritissa.org.au

useFul WebsItes

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Q. I have heard that a dozen gin-soaked raisins a day provides natural pain relief?

A. Raisins are often treated with sulphur dioxide gas during processing to preserve their colour and sulphur has been explored for its role in joint health. Other research has explored whether a sulphur compound called methylsulfonylmethane helps with osteoarthritis (OA) pain, however, the results were inconclusive.

Gin includes juniper berries and was prescribed in the middle ages foranti-inflammatoryproperties.Itisadvisable that you discuss this with your doctor and follow the prescribed medication regime.

Q. Is it true that some arthritis medications have some good side effects?

A. Methotrexate, taken orally, reduces pain and slows rheumatoid arthritis progression by blocking certain enzymes in the immune system. According to a number of

studies, methotrexate may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Researchers don’t yet know what dose of methotrexate reduces heart disease risk or how long it takes for protection to work, but it seems the standard doses of 10 to 20 mg per week do seem to reduce cardiac risks.

Q:Ioftenhearpeoplewitharthritissaythattheyarehavinga‘flare’.What is it?

A: A‘flare’isaworseningofthedisease process. The cause of aflarevariesdependingonthetype of arthritis and the individual themselves. In rheumatoid arthritis, aflarecanberelatedtonaturalfluctuationsintheimmunologicalprocessesthatdriveinflammation.Inosteoarthritis,flaresmaybeinducedby local trauma to the joint. It is important to talk with your doctor or rheumatologists to discuss how to recognise and what to do should you experienceaflare.

Q: Is it true arthritis magnets or healing magnets relieve osteoarthritis pain?

A: The evidence of this is limited and studies of arthritis magnets or ‘healing magnets’ for osteoarthritis pain have been inconclusive. In 2007, an analysis by British researchers of 29 studies of static magnets suggested there was nosignificantdifferenceinpainreduction between people using magnets and placebo.

Questions for this column may be emailed to [email protected] or posted to Arthritis SA, 118 Richmond Rd, Marleston 5033. Selected questions may be included in future issues of On the Move.

For advice or information contact our Telephone Advisory Service on 08 8379 5711.

ask arthrItIs sa – your questIons ansWered

a bIG thankyouon Wednesday 22nd of January, members of the Holdfast Baptist Group visited Arthritis SA as part of the annual ‘Big Week out’. ‘Big Week out’ is a week-long event of community service activities for young people. the event aims to help young people critically explore and express their faith through both discussion and practical means.

Rachel, Matt, Sarah, erin and Brianna assisted Arthritis SA for 3 hours by undertaking tasks such as clearing out old books from the book shop, weeding & picking up rubbish from the car park garden and washing all the ground floor windows.

All participants did a fantastic job. Arthritis SA is extremely grateful for their work.

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people’s choIce lotteryArthritis SA is proud to be a participating charity again this year in the People’s Choice Community Lottery. For your chance to win one of over 200 fabulous prizes – including a Hyundai ix35 Highlander Petrol Auto, courtesy of Adrian Brien Hyundai, or a $35,000 Harvey Norman Shopping

Spree, please go to our website to purchase your ticket. Great value at $2.00 each or a book of 10 for $20.00 – all proceeds from Arthritis SA ticket sales go towards providing education courses and research into ways of better managing arthritis in its many forms.

Great GetaWay order your tIckets For your chance to escape!

First Prize:Win one week accommodation in Carcassonne, South of France and 3 nights in Paris for 2 people!Airfaresandtraintravelfor2peopleincluded.Value$9,000.

Second Prize:Win 2 Grandstand passes to ALL 3 days/nights of the world’s ONLY Night Grand Prix in Singapore (Sept 19 - 21, 2014). In addition, receive2xticketstotheofficialF1afterpartyat The Ritz Carlton Hotel. Return airfares for 2 peopleincluded.Value$7,000.

third PrizeWin 7 nights in a 4-star townhouse at the Reef Club Resort Port Douglas for a maximum of 6 guests. A perfect getaway for the family and kids willabsolutelyloveit!Theprizeincludesahalfday Daintree River Tour. Return airfares for 2 peopleincluded-Value$3,500.

Fourth PrizeWin a private chef and waiter to serve a gourmet 5 course dinner for 8 guests in the privacy and comfort of your own home. All meals include your personal chef, attentive waiter, crockery, cutlery, linennapkins,tea&coffee.Value$2,500.

Fifth PrizeWin a relaxing week in Robe at a fabulous fully equipped holiday house, which sleeps up to 10 people!Experiencethecharmofthisdestination,amidst the tranquil lakes and mountainous sand dunesoftheLimestoneCoast.Value$1,500.

to order tickets: www.arthritissa.org.au or phone Kate tymons: (08) 8379 5711 [email protected]

Experience your Dream Getaway with the 2014 Great Escape Lottery while supporting the important work of Arthritis SA.Licence No. M12697Arthritis SA together with the Mary Potter Foundation, Autism SA and CARA is delighted to offer youtheopportunitytowinandexperienceyourdreamgetawaybywinning1of5fantasticprizes!Purchasing a ticket is a fun way to gain an opportunity to win a fantastic holiday or an unforgettable experience.

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people’s choIce lottery

imagine not being able to peel a banana and savouring the taste. For those with arthritis in their hands, this simple task can seem almost impossible.OneinfiveAustralians–that’s3.85millionpeople,have arthritis. In South Australia it is one in four or over 300,000 individuals. Arthritis affects young and old at a cost to our economy or more than $23.9 billion each year in medical care and indirect costs. But these statistics offer little comfort to the people struggling day in, day out to cope with the debilitating condition.

Formany,itmeanswakingupsomedaystofindtheycan hardly walk. Even on a ‘good day’ they may limp, and simple tasks like making a cup of tea, opening a door or peeling a banana are a struggle due to chronic swelling, pain and stiffness in their hands.

What is Arthritis SA doing to help people with arthritis?

• ThroughyourgeneroussupportArthritisSA

has doubled the amount of money dedicated to research. Arthritis SA support research both at a local and national level with over $200,000 per year.

• ArthritisSAandtheUniversityofAdelaidehavecollaborated to ensure that all our consumer courses are fully evaluated and research based so we can offer people effective courses.

• ArthritisSAisensuringthatweareofferingthelatest advice and the best support for all people with arthritis and musculo-skeletal conditions.

Butweneedtodomore!

ArthritisSAiscommittedtofindingacureforarthritisbut we desperately need your help. With your support we can begin to ease the burden faced by those with arthritis.

Together we can all make a difference. Help us create a better future for those one in four South Australians with arthritis by making your donation to our research campaign today.

Yours sincerely,

Julie BlackCEO Arthritis SA

address: 118 Richmond Road, Marleston SA 5033 phone: (08) 8379 5711 country freecall: 1800 011 041 email: [email protected] website: www.arthritissa.org.au Donate: online at www.arthritissa.org.auDeclaration of privacy The Arthritis Foundation acknowledges and respects the privacy of individuals. It is our policy to provide our supporters with information about our activities and from time to time to request further support. We respect your privacy and will not on sell your name to any other organisation. If you request no further mail from Arthritis South Australia or Osteoporosis South Australia, please write to us including your address details and donor number.

Yes, I want to support Arthritis SA The Arthritis Foundation of South Australia incorporating Osteoporosis SA

Donation amount: $ Payment method: Cheque Money Order (made payable to Arthritis SA) Please debit my credit card:    MasterCard    Visa    Amex Card number:

Expiry date /

Signature Name on card *CCV

*The CCV is mandatory; this is the last three digits on the back of your card

Please choose your gift by ticking the appropriate box below. Remember, your donation of $2.00 or more is tax deductible.

Please accept my tax deductible donation:

Name: _____________________________________

Address: ___________________________________

Phone: _____________________________________

Email: ______________________________________

   Yes, I have arthritis

Type _______________________________________

Please send me information on:   Becoming a member    Self-Management courses    Leaving a bequest    Regular giving

I would prefer to give $50    $75     $100  

I would prefer to make a monthly donation of

$__________ for ________ month(s)

I would prefer to make an annual

donation of $ ___________________

Great GetaWay order your tIckets For your chance to escape!

Please note Arthritis SA reserves the right to cancel or postpone events if necessary

events and happenInGsConSuMeR SeMinARS (information seminars cost $10 ($5 Concession, no charge Arthritis SA members)

Wednesday 12 March 7 – 8.30pmRheumatoid ArthritisLearn more about this challenging condition from Professor Malcolm Smith FRACP a leading expert in this field.Bookings essential 83795711Venue: - Arthritis SA, Marleston

Sunday 13 April, 1.30 – 3.30pm dr Sam Whittle will provide an insight into Fibromyalgia and living with chronic fatigue You will be provided with an opportunity to have all your questions answered Venue: - Arthritis SA, MarlestonFibromyalgia – dealing with Fatigue

thursday 29 May 10 – 3.30pmScleroderma Seminar will see a wide range of speakers present on this little known condition.A one day seminar is an opportunity to hear from a range of experts and meet other people with the condition. Venue: - Arthritis SA, Marleston

Sunday June 29 2 – 3.30pmunderstanding strategies of living with a chronic fatigue and considering new concepts in self-management will be the focus of this session Venue: - Arthritis SA, MarlestonLiving with Fibromyalgia

take Charge of Pain Courses Living with constant pain is challenging for anyone. our course is for two and a half hours twice usually on the same day each week. Learn more about causes and treatments for pain and skills in self-management.

Courses Cost $30, (no charge for Arthritis SA members) Bookings via Arthritis SA – Courses offered in the community are usually subsidised – Book directly at the local Community Centre

Visit the website www.arthritissa.org.au for further details or to book into a course today.

SuPPoRt GRouPSSupport Groups meet regularly. Contact Arthritis SA on for further informationJiA (Juvenile idiopathic Arthritis) network

4.6.2014 – Games day at Cooinda neighborhood Centre, 245 Sturt Rd, Sturt 5047 – Parents Connect

22.11.2014 – Adventure Day (to be confirmed)

details of events will be emailed/posted prior to the day.

Kidsflix Dates for South Australia - Contact Arthritis SA for calendar date information on (08) 83795711 or visit the website www.arthritissa.org.au

Fibromyalgia Support Group Contact Arthritis SA for calendar date information on (08) 83795711 or visit the website www.arthritissa.org.auLSS – Lupus, Sjogrens, Scleroderma Support Groupthursday 20th of March 2014 10:30 am tuesday 6th of May 2014 7:30 pmVenue: - Arthritis SA, MarlestonContact Arthritis SA for calendar date information on (08) 83795711 or visit the website www.arthritissa.org.au

Western osteoporosis Support GroupMeet bi-monthly on the 4th Monday of each month from April – december.Contact Arthritis SA for calendar date information on (08) 83795711 or visit the website www.arthritissa.org.au

Marion Branch Arthritis Support GroupMeet monthly on the last Friday of each month. Contact Arthritis SA for calendar date information on (08) 83795711 or visit the website www.arthritissa.org.au

Southern Arthritis Friendship and Support GroupContact Arthritis SA for calendar date information on (08) 83795711 or visit the website www.arthritissa.org.au

Copper triangle Arthritis Support GroupMeet bi-monthly on the second tuesday of the month.Contact Arthritis SA for calendar date information on (08) 83795711 or visit the website www.arthritissa.org.au