Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis: Additional Sources Of Information

Here are some reliable sources that can provide more information on osteoarthritis.

Arthritis Foundation Services

Arthritis Foundation(national office) 
Phone: 800-283-7800
http://www.arthritis.org

• Arthritis Self-Help Course (ASHC)

  A 6 week [15-hour] class that teaches people how to take control of their own care.

• Bone Up on Arthritis (BUOA)

  A simplified, self-paced arthritis course. Six lessons on audiocassettes and a workbook provide helpful information about arthritis management.

• Arthritis Foundation YMCA Aquatics Program (AFYAP)
• A 6- to 10-week warm water exercise class that is conducted in a heated pool. AFYAP is designed for people with impaired joint motion and strength. It focuses upon muscle strengthening and joint mobility.
• Land Exercise Arthritis Program (LEAP), and People with Arthritis Can Exercise (PACE)

  Courses that offer several levels of exercise to benefit people with any type of arthritis.

• Joint Efforts

  A program for older adults that helps to explain the principles of joint protection.

• In Control®

  A self-paced videotape about arthritis (text and audiocassette supplements are available).

• Arthritis Home Help^TM

  An individualized, computerized, self-management plan that uses quarterly questionnaires, self-care books, and tapes.

• Arthritis Today magazine

  An award-winning, bimonthly magazine (with $20 membership donation). For instant membership, call toll-free:(800) 933-0032.

Other Arthritis Foundation Services

• Local Arthritis Foundation Chapters (these may provide a selection of support groups and clubs)
• Arthritis specialist list
• Educational brochures
• One-session educational meetings

Other Support Group Sources

• The Internet
• YMCA and YWCA
• Social service agencies
• Hospital outreach programs
• Senior clubs
• Health clubs
• Surgical supply stores and catalogues

Helpful Websites

American College of Rheumatology (ACR) 
http://www.rheumatology.org/

American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons 
www.aaos.org

The Arthritis and Glucosamine Informaion Center 
www.glucosamine-arthritis.org

Books

Arthritis: A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding Your Arthritis, by James F. Fries, M.D., is recommended by the Arthritis Foundation as a reference for its trainers and teachers. (5 rating)