What it is

Arthritis is a group of conditions that cause inflammation and damage to joints and surrounding tissues. The most common forms are osteoarthritis (wear and tear), rheumatoid arthritis (an autoimmune condition), psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and gout. These conditions cause joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced range of motion, which can impact daily functioning and quality of life. 3.9 million Australians are affected by arthritis.

While osteoarthritis is associated with ageing, arthritis can develop at any age. Rheumatoid arthritis is commonly diagnosed between the ages of 25 and 50. Arthritis is characterised by progressive joint damage that can worsen over time without adequate management. Inflammatory forms of arthritis can extend beyond the joints to impact other systems, including the cardiovascular system, lungs and eyes.

Risk Factors

Age is the primary non-modifiable risk factor for osteoarthritis, and the risk increases significantly after the age of 45. Genetic factors play a crucial role in other forms of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylosis. Women are more likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, while men are more prone to gout and ankylosing spondylosis.

Occupational risk factors include repetitive joint use, heavy physical work, and prolonged kneeling or squatting. Repetitive hand or wrist movements, such as computer use, tool use, or assembly line work, increase the risk of arthritis in the affected joints.

Previous joint injuries significantly increase the risk of osteoarthritis later in life.

Overweight and obesity place additional load on weight-bearing joints and can increase systemic inflammation, contributing to both osteoarthritis and inflammatory arthritis progression.

Lifestyle risk factors include physical inactivity, poor nutrition, smoking and excessive alcohol intake. Autoimmune conditions and certain infections can trigger inflammatory arthritis in predisposed individuals.

Impact of TENSH Habits

Physical Activity

Physical activity is fundamental for arthritis management by helping to maintain joint mobility, strengthening supporting muscles and reducing stiffness. Low-impact activities, such as swimming, water aerobics, walking, and cycling, provide cardiovascular fitness benefits without excessive joint loading. Regular movement helps maintain the production of synovial fluid, which naturally lubricates joints.

Muscle-strengthening

Muscle-strengthening exercises are essential for developing muscle strength, which in turn promotes stability and reduces stress on joints. MSE with good technique can slow cartilage loss and help maintain functional capacity. Even when movement is limited, isometric exercises (creating tension without movement) can help maintain muscle strength and function during flare-ups.

Sedentary Behaviour

Sustained sedentary behaviour can lead to muscle weakness and joint stiffness, which increases the risk of arthritic symptoms. Reducing sedentary behaviour helps to reduce joint stiffness and maintain range of motion. Regular movement breaks help to maintain mobility and reduce morning stiffness.

Fruit & Vegetable Intake

Fruit and vegetable intake contains anti-inflammatory compounds that can reduce systemic inflammation associated with chronic arthritis. They also provide essential nutrients for joint health and repair.

Sugar & Saturated Fat

Managing added-sugar and saturated fat intake helps reduce systemic inflammation and maintain a healthy body weight. Fish and nuts contain omega-3 fatty acids that have anti-inflammatory properties, which benefit inflammatory arthritis.

Managing Alcohol Intake

Excessive alcohol intake can interfere with medication efficacy, especially for the management of inflammatory arthritis. Alcohol intake, particularly beer and spirits, can increase the risk of developing gout due to their impact on uric acid levels. Intake should be carefully managed during attacks.

Mindfulness practices

Mindfulness and controlled breathing have been demonstrated to improve pain management for back problems and enhance quality of life. Proper sleep habits support tissue recovery and repair. Sufficient sleep duration and quality are essential for pain management and maintaining physical function.

Impact on the Workplace

Arthritis impacts workplace productivity and attendance. Direct costs to organisations include workers’ compensation costs (for work-related arthritis), higher absenteeism rates and workplace modifications. Early retirement rates are higher among workers with arthritis.

Organisations can support workers through ergonomic keyboards and mice, adjustable desks and chairs, grip aids and adaptive tools. Officer temperature control or flexible dress codes can also help manage increased stiffness from cold environments. Organisations that implement support programs see improved worker retention, reduced costs and enhanced worker wellbeing.

Resources & Tools

Arthritis Australia

Provides educational tools, resources and support.

Musculoskeletal Health
Australia

Support for people whose lives are impacted by muscle, bone and joint conditions

Australian Rheumatology Association

Information for rheumatologic arthritis, including finding a medical practitioner

My Joint Pain

Comprehensive information to support the osteoarthritis journey

Arthritis