The Arthritis Foundation Is Your Friend

If you are one of the 27 million Americans diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, then you may be feeling confused, depressed, anxious or uncertain as to what the future holds for you. The good news is that the Arthritis Foundation has compiled a wealth of information to help you through this difficult time. You can learn about self pain management techniques, medical breakthroughs, medications and surgery options, as well as finding community activities to get involved with towards finding a cure.

The Arthritis Foundation offers many events and programs year-round to help those suffering with arthritis, as well as their friends and family who are right there suffering with them. The "Time to Walk the Walk" event encourages you to be a team captain or just take a walk to fundraise for the cure, making a difference in the lives of almost 46 million people who live with the daily pain of arthritis.

The "Life Improvement Series" program is designed to help sufferers with pain management and functionality. The "Joints In Motion" marathon training program and "The Jingle Bell Run/Walk" are two more events that help raise money and connect people with arthritis, to find greater strength in numbers. Each year, the traditional black-tie gala dinners, wine events and themed parties raise more than $8 million for chronic pain research. By getting involved, you can restore a sense of control and improve your morale, while doing what you can.

When your arthritis pain is very severe, it can be difficult to think about exercising. However, any good doctor will tell you that the key to prolonged mobility, minimizing damage and relieving pain is to participate in a regular, low-impact exercise routine. Knowing the motivational power of group exercise, the Arthritis Foundation has created the "Life Improvement Series" programs, designed to give people with arthritis pain high-quality workouts. Whether it's tai chi or aquatic therapy, you can find an activity that will keep your spirits high and your body stretched.

The Arthritis Foundation is your one stop resource shop. Here you'll find a program that helps you to better communicate with your doctor about your rheumatoid arthritis, as seen on television. You can also order a free brochure about how to ease arthritis pain with heat and cold therapy or download free rheumatoid arthritis health tips developed by the American College of Physicians Foundation. Additionally, you can read the latest edition of "Just Diagnosed" Magazine and join "RA Connect," a community where arthritis patients can meet others, share experiences and get medical advice. Family members of people with arthritis will also find the information helpful, as it will help them to be more sensitive to the pain their loved one is experiencing.