Articles of Interest

Dr. Brian Bressler, gastroenterologist, and Dr. Kam Shojania, rheumatologist, met with colleagues recently and presented data about inflammatory bowel disease and spondyloarthropathy. Discussion followed that addressed issues related to co-treating these complex illnesses.

Patients and parents alike are praising the YARD clinic (Young Adults with Rheumatic Disease) at University of Calgary/Alberta Health Services and with good reason. The clinic ensures that the transfer of care from paediatric to adult care is as seamless and stress-free as possible.

We push for research to learn more about arthritis. We cheer when research results in a new treatment that reduces or eliminates joint and organ destruction, and allows us to remain employed and relatively pain free. But how often do we stand back and ask if this wonderful 'new' knowledge requires a change to the 'old' way of treating this disabling disease?

Do you have Osteoarthritis (OA) or Joint Problems? If you are over the age of 40 and have OA, we want to learn more about your experiences living with arthritis. You may be eligible to participate in this research study if you have symptoms such as pain, aching or stiffness in the knee or hip; have NOT been diagnosed with Osteoporosis, Fibromyalgia, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Ankylosing Spondylitis, Psoriatic Arthritis or Lupus; and are not recovering from a recent accident or injury. Deadline for participation is August 30, 2009. Study results are expected in late 2011.

It’s hard to remember when I didn’t have some back problems. I had done some heavy manual labour as a teenager so when, age 35, and 15 years after joining the police force I found myself with regular back pain and stiffness, I simply attributed it to pushing my back too hard early on. But it never got better.

One of the most frequent questions that I get asked by my patients who are about to start Methotrexate is: “What about alcohol”.

ARCH Disability Law Centre is inviting people with disabilities to share their experience in accessing legal help and services in Ontario. The information obtained from your participation will be used to improve the services and programs at ARCH and help other people with disabilities access the legal system. To participate or for more information contact ARCH before July 15, 2009.

The Canadian Arthritis Patient Alliance is delighted to announce its brand new, independent website at www.arthritispatient.ca. Naturally, we think it's the best looking, most informative and easiest to use web site anywhere around!

Pain is no stranger to people with arthritis. For those newly diagnosed it arrives like a thief in the night and steals their drive to fully participate in society. For others who have a history of arthritis, pain can be chronic, a condition they accept and live with. All pain ranges from mild to severe. But what does arthritis pain look like in Canada and what should we do about it?