Work and Arthritis.

Last updated Thursday, January 06, 2005

Taming arthritis at work

What are some tips for managing arthritis at work?

You cannot expect to work successfully if you don't have good medical management of your disease. This includes care from an experienced doctor, proper medication, and exercise prescribed by a physical or occupational therapist.

Combined with good medical care, being flexible, creative, and a problem-solver can help you balance your work and the demands of arthritis. By figuring out your energy patterns during the day and what kind of activities hurt or help you, you can arrange your work schedule to keep arthritis under control.

Some ways of doing this include:

• Create an efficient work environment. Arrange things around you to limit the amount of lifting, reaching, carrying, holding, or walking you must do.
• Set priorities and pace yourself. List the things you must do in order of importance, and do the most important ones while you feel strongest and most energetic.
• Vary activities from time to time so you do not sit too long in one position.
• Keep a diary of your good days and bad days to help you predict the causes and events that may tend to trigger flares.
• Maintain a positive attitude. Having a positive attitude and belief in your abilities can make you more effective at work. Paying attention to your appearance can also boost your self-esteem and help you maintain a professional image. Keeping a sense of humor will help you over the rough spots.
• Maintain a schedule. To avoid fatigue at work, get to bed at a regular time and get enough rest to carry you through the day. Include exercise, therapy, and regular medical check-ups in your schedule.

Other tips on managing your arthritis in the workplace:

• Sit in a chair that can be easily adjusted.
• Use a footrest.
• Keep files and supplies within easy reach.
• Use vertical files on your desk for current work.
• Install work assist arms or wrist rests at your keyboard.
• Use a glare screen and paper holder on your monitor.
• Use lateral file cabinets for easier access.

How can people with arthritis protect their joints while at work?

Finding ways to cut out or cut down on activities that hurt your joints can prevent disability and help you remain active in the work force longer. Ways of doing this include:

• using your joints wisely
• exercise
• relaxation techniques
• learning to save your energy
• making travel to and from work easier

Credits

Some of this material may also be available in an Arthritis Foundation brochure. Contact the Washington/Alaska Chapter Helpline: (800) 542-0295. If dialing from outside of WA and AK, contact the National Helpline: (800) 283-7800.

This material was originally prepared for the Arthritis Foundation and is protected by copyright.

Disclaimer

This resource has been provided by the University of Washington Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine as general information only. This information may not apply to a specific patient. Additional information may be found at http://www.orthop.washington.edu or by contacting the UW Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine.

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