Working with Arthritis
Working with Arthritis
Arthritis means inflammation of the joints. It affects about nine million people in the UK and it can affect people of all ages. There are around 200 types of arthritis – two of the more common forms are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
The causes of arthritis are complex, and many are still unknown. While there is no cure, sometimes arthritis gets better on its own or as a result of treatment. However, most people with arthritis will be affected to varying degrees over many years. It can be difficult for doctors to tell which course arthritis will take as it is a fluctuating condition. Many people with arthritis are able to work, but need help or some kind of workplace adjustment. Everyone’s needs are different and it is not helpful to make general assumptions about a person’s abilities because they have arthritis.
Arthritis can affect anyone at any age, including many people of working age. This may include people who are in work, looking for work, temporarily off sick, or hoping to return after a long period away from work. For some people, the decision to continue working or to return to work will need a lot of thought and discussion. Explore your options by asking the right questions of yourself and knowing where to seek advice.
Living and working with arthritis
Working with Arthritis, real stories from real people
Factsheet
A quick reference factsheet on working with arthritis for employers
