Sunday is World Rheumatism Day
World Rheumatism Day is designed to inform people with rheumatism about the possibilities of a self-determined life
10/10/2014
For many sufferers, rheumatism means a life of pain in the muscles, tendons, bones or joints. More than 100 different diseases are included. In Germany, most rheumatic patients suffer from arthritis, a chronic, progressive joint wear. On the occasion of the upcoming World Rheumatism Day on October 12, 2014, the German Rheumatism League will provide information about opportunities for a self-determined life.
German Rheumatism League gives everyday tips for rheumatic patients
„Begin active joint protection before joint changes and pain are felt. The sooner you act and seek advice, the less damage will be in the joints over the longer term“, advises the rheumatologist Prof. Erika Gromnica-Ihle.
For people with rheumatic diseases such as osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, inflammatory rheumatism or fibromyalgia even everyday activities can be agony. Tightening socks or opening a bottle is already a challenge. The German Rheumatism League gives in five new videos and in the guide „Joint protection in everyday life - knew how!“ useful tips for those affected to cope well with everyday life despite illness.
As the association informs, often already help a Stockanzanzieher, pencils a thicker grip and PC work a mouse pad made of foam to stabilize the wrist.
Occupational therapists would provide specific instructions for joint protection. The patient needs a prescription for the „Instructions for motor-functional treatment“, that the attending physician issues. „The health insurances cover the costs for special aids, such as the grasping forceps after a hip operation. However, most everyday items, such as electric can openers, ergonomic knives, or creams, are not covered“, informs the German Rheumatism League in a communication.
New campaign on World Rheumatism Day
The association recommends joint-sparing and muscle-strengthening sports, such as swinging and jumping on the mini-trampoline. „The mini trampoline can also be used at home and is suitable for many rheumatics“, reports Susanne Bitzer, occupational therapist from Berlin. „Together with a physiotherapist, you can develop a personalized training program. Jumping is fun and, by the way, all muscle groups are stimulated and strengthened in a gentle, joint-gentle manner.“
As part of World Rheumatism Day, the Federal Association is planning a press campaign to launch the new four-year campaign „Rheumatism: Self-Determined Living - Introducing Society ".
Under this motto will be shown in the coming years, „How participation and empowerment for people with rheumatism are taking shape in organized self-help“, announces the German Rheumatism League. The first year of the campaign has the focus „Rheumatism - coping with everyday life“. (Ag)
Picture: Uta Herbert