Different arthritis conditions can disable an individual, causing a change in lifestyle, pain and suffering. Sometimes it helps to know that there are organizations out there that support families, research and advocate for sufferers. Those affected should be aware of the variety of resources that are available to those living with arthritis, so they can access the information and support that they need.
The Arthritis Foundation
This foundation is a nonprofit organization that supports 100 arthritis conditions. Their website contains current events, news, educational information, treatment updates and advocacy information. The Arthritis Foundation also features "Arthritis Today," a magazine which provides information on lifestyle issues, dieting, exercise and arthritis conditions and symptoms. This online resource assists in everything from tracking weather changes that might affect your arthritis to information about nutrition and exercise. One of the most helpful features is the drug guide, which features a drug look up. Sign up to receive an informational newsletter by email.
The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS)
The mission of NIAMS is to "support research into the causes, treatment, and prevention of arthritis and musculoskeletal and skin diseases, the training of basic and clinical scientists to carry out this research, and the dissemination of information on research progress in these diseases." It is part of the National Institutes of Health. There is health information indexed by disease, research, clinical trials, recent updates and national initiatives. The Health Information Index is user friendly, and you can access some information in Spanish. Publications by title are also available to be ordered for free. The news and events feature has current events related to arthritis research and related topics. The organization has a Multicultural Quarterly Newsletter that contains information and resources specific to multicultural communities.
The Arthritis Research Institute of America
The Arthritis Research Institute of America is a nonprofit organization that conducts osteoarthritis research. Their website provides numerous articles and recent findings related to osteoarthritis. There is information on booking a speaker on arthritis, volunteering and educational videos. The group also offers a helpline by telephone of tips for people living with arthritis.
References
- The Arthritis Foundation: About the Arthritis Foundation
- Arthritis Today: From the Arthritis Foundation
- The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Disease: Mission and Purpose
- The Arthritis Research Institute of America
- The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Disease: NIAMS Multicultural News 2010
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