Arthritis – anyone, anytime

September 19th to 25th is appeal week for Arthritis New Zealand and they need your help.

Did you know that more than 624,000 Kiwis live with arthritis and that number is greater than the total number of people with diabetes and heart disease combined?

Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout are the most common forms of arthritis, among more than 140 different conditions classed as arthritis. Contrary to popular myth, arthritis is not just about older people – it affects all age groups, including children – and is one of the leading causes of disability in New Zealand.

By 2020 everyone will likely know someone with the condition as by then, more than 650,000 or one in five New Zealanders will be living with arthritis.

Lynne’s story is typical of the pain and disability many have to endure. She was diagnosed with osteoarthritis in her hip at the age of 40 and took painkillers for seven years before doctors took her seriously enough to do something about it. X-rays showed her hip joint was so worn down it was bone-on-bone so she was booked for a hip replacement. It was a success and she had her second hip replaced four months after that.

Now Lynne does everything she can to spread the word about early intervention and self-management, including keeping as fit and healthy as you can, watching for possible food ‘triggers’, and seeking support from others.

Lynne will be helping as a collector for Arthritis New Zealand’s appeal on 22 September. She knows from experience how supportive Arthritis New Zealand has been for her, and wants to let others know about their services.

“Their advice and support makes a big difference. The best part is knowing you’re not alone, and that there are others experiencing the same thing,” Lynne says.

Blackmores is a proud sponsor of Arthritis New Zealand.

Look out for the Arthritis New Zealand gerbera on the label of selected Blackmores Products. Always read the label and use as directed. Vitamins are supplementary to a balanced diet. Blackmores, Auckland

If you can help collect for the Arthritis New Zealand appeal, please call 0800 663 463. You can also donate on the website www.arthritis.org.nz  or give $20 by dialling 0900 333 20.

For more information on Blackmores, go to blackmoresnz.co.nz or phone the Naturopathic Advisory Line on 0508 75 74 73.

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