One in Nine People in Newcastle are Affected by Arthritis

More than one in nine people living in Newcastle are affected by arthritis, making it one of the region's most common chronic health conditions.

To help people better understand and manage their symptoms, The Arthritis Movement is bringing its free Community Wellness Program to the Wallsend Diggers on Wednesday 12 August.

The team will share information on arthritis and successful management strategies, such as exercise, nutrition and pain management, that people in Newcastle can implement to live their best lives.

‘There are evidence-based strategies that can reduce pain, improve movement and help people stay independent. These are practical tools people can start using straight away,’ said Health Educator Mary Frack.

Local resident Trudy is a retired schoolteacher who has avoided a knee replacement by actively managing her osteoarthritis with an exercise program designed by her physiotherapist. ‘I maintained the program for five years and then slackened off, and my knee pain and stiffness came back pretty quickly,’ Trudy said. ‘I started again and have kept it up. My husband and I have busy lives and it’s worth the trouble to keep enjoying life.’

The Arthritis Movement has taken the Live Well with Arthritis presentation to NSW regional centres over the past eight years to address the shortfall of health services in country areas, both on-location and online.

‘The attendance has been very encouraging and the feedback extremely positive, so it has become an important part of our ongoing mission,’ Mary said. ‘We’re delighted to share these strategies with the people in the area.’

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (2022) reports that 10.9% of the population of Newcastle live with the condition, or almost one in nine people.

Mary, who has a background in public health, will talk about the condition, pain management, and the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle when managing arthritis.

Registration is at 9.30am for 10am. Attendance is free, with an optional gold coin donation. Bookings are essential. Visit: arthritis.org.au or call 1300 275 826.

This event is supported by Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation.