World Arthritis Day 2016

12th October is World Arthritis Day, and to raise awareness of those suffering from RMD (Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Diseases) we have put together this helpful article to help explain what RMDs are and what is out there to help support those who suffer from an RMD.

Firstly, what are RMDs?

  • There are over 150 disease and syndromes which are traditionally associated with joint pain and physical disabilities.
  • RMDs are commonly classified into inflammatory and noninflammatory types:
    • Common non-inflammatory RMDs consist of degenerative spine diseases, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis and fibromyalgia
    • Common inflammatory RMDs consist of rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, reactive arthritis, connective tissue diseases and polymyalgia rheumatica.
  • RMDs are usually associated with any of the following symptoms:
    • Persistent joint pain
    • Tenderness
    • Joint swelling
    • Loss of range of motion or flexibility in a joint

But who is likely to be affected by RMDs?:

  • RMDs affects a quarter of all people in the European Union – that’s over 120 million people!
  • Almost every family in Europe is affected by arthritis in some way
  • In the industrialised world, RMDs affect more individuals than any other condition or disease
  • Arthritis affects both men and women of all ages, including children and babies. However, some RMDs are more common among certain populations. For example, rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, fibromyalgia, and lupus predominantly affect women.
  • Spondyloarthropathies and gout are more common in men
  • RMDs are the biggest cause of sick leave and premature retirement worldwide

How can you help those who suffer?

As movement is the main issue for those who suffer from RMDs, it is key to keep as active as possible to aid with joint movement and strength. Whilst it may be difficult at first, frequent exercise can help keep joints moving and flexible.

At Clearwell we sell a wide variety of products to aid those who suffer with RMDs. We have outlined below a small selection of the main areas we focus on below.

Grabbers and Reachers

Reaching and grabbing items at difficult angles and distances can be a problem for those who suffer with arthritis. The act of overstretching and then gripping an item can be relieved by the use of a grabber or reacher. Whilst the use of your hand is still required they can be beneficial to those who suffer with arthritis in their legs and those who struggle to stand or move quickly or frequently to retrieve items. View our range here

Dressing and Grooming Aids

Our range of dressing and grooming aids are ideal for those who struggle to twist and reach when dressing themselves, combing their hair or washing. The extra long handles on these products combined with their ingenious designs make them easy to use for those who struggle to grip or twist with traditional products. Whilst not removing the need for movement completely, these aids help reduce the requirement to stretch unnecessarily. View our range here

Dining Aids

There is a wide variety of dining aids which are designed to help those with arthritis. Posable and comfort grip cutlery offer an easy solution to eating while handled mugs provide you with a stable and secure drinking tool. The vast selection of dining aids mean that there is a solution to any issue you may be having with eating or drinking. The constant gripping of cutlery can cause joints to seize and so these specially designed items reduce the risk of pain whilst dining. View our range here

Walking Sticks

For those suffering with arthritis in their lower body a walking stick can help provide extra stability and support when out and about. Available in a huge variety of colours, materials and styles, walking sticks are one of the world's most common mobility aids and can also be some of the most luxurious. The right walking stick can provide a huge benefit to the user and help them regain their freedom outside their home as well as helping provide necessary exercise to those who suffer with RMDs. View our range here

There are so many varieties of RMDs that it is impossible to list every relevant product area for each condition. For a look at our full range of products have a look around the site or for further information on a specific product area or type then visit your local Clearwell showroom today or call us on 01444 253300 and one of our staff will be more than happy to help advise you on the best product for your needs.