Around 20% of people in Ireland live with arthritis, a figure expected to rise.
In this week’s episode of Disability Matters, host John Comiskey speaks with Tara Regan, Communications and Advocacy Manager at Arthritis Ireland, about the realities of living with arthritis, the wide range of supports available, and why early information, self-management, and connection are essential.
Warm, practical, and deeply informative, Tara offers clarity on a condition that affects one in five people in Ireland — spanning all ages, from childhood through later life.
Understanding Arthritis: More Than One Condition
Tara begins by explaining that arthritis is not a single disease, but a group of over 100 different conditions, broadly categorised into two types.
Osteoarthritis is a non-inflammatory condition that often develops gradually over time. It can be linked to past injuries, lifestyle factors, and ageing, and is influenced by activity levels, diet, and overall health.
Inflammatory arthritis, by contrast, can develop rapidly and is driven by immune, genetic, and environmental factors. This group includes conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, axial spondyloarthritis, gout, and Down syndrome–associated arthritis. Symptoms may overlap, and some people live with both inflammatory arthritis and osteoarthritis.
While inflammatory arthritis can be highly debilitating, Tara highlights that advances in medication now allow many people to control inflammation, manage pain, and protect joint health.
“If you think you might have arthritis, talk to your GP,” Tara advises. “Keeping a symptom diary can really help — especially when symptoms change or appointments are delayed.”
The Impact on Daily Life
Arthritis affects far more than joints. Tara describes how pain, stiffness, fatigue, and disrupted sleep can make everyday tasks — getting dressed, preparing food, opening jars, or even holding a kettle — extremely challenging.
She also notes the emotional toll: loss of independence, frustration, and anxiety are common, particularly when symptoms fluctuate unpredictably.
Practical aids and adaptations can make a real difference — from sock-assist tools to alternative footwear — helping people maintain independence and dignity.
Treatment Is More Than Medication
While medication plays a vital role, Tara emphasises that living well with arthritis requires a whole-person approach.
Arthritis Ireland offers a range of free self-management programmes, including:
- Living Well with Arthritis – a six-week programme focused on pain, sleep, flares, medication, movement, and preparing for medical appointments
- Living Well with Pain – supporting people with persistent pain
- Be Active with Arthritis – a physiotherapist-led exercise programme
- STEPS Programme – a tailored, personalised support plan with check-ins
“These programmes are often described as life-changing,” Tara says. “People connect with others who truly understand what they’re going through.”
Movement Is Medicine
Tara reinforces a key message: movement matters — even in small amounts.
Not everyone can attend exercise classes, but gentle movement, chair exercises, short walks, or water-based activity can help maintain joint mobility, muscle strength, and mental wellbeing.
“Every little bit of movement helps,” she explains. “And the social connection — even a chat over coffee — is just as important.”
Arthritis Ireland also offers Tai Chi, yoga, adaptive exercise classes, and online options, ensuring accessibility for people with different abilities and energy levels.
One in Five — And Growing
Around 20% of people in Ireland live with arthritis, a figure expected to rise due to population ageing, sedentary lifestyles, and longer life expectancy.
Severity varies widely — from arthritis in a single joint to conditions affecting multiple joints and body systems — making tailored support essential.
Newly Diagnosed? Take Your Time
For those newly diagnosed, Tara acknowledges that arthritis can trigger a period of grief and adjustment.
“Getting a diagnosis doesn’t mean the condition just started,” she explains. “It means now it has a name — and now you can move forward.”
Pacing, managing energy, resetting expectations, and communicating with family and friends are crucial steps. Arthritis Ireland encourages people not to rush, not to overwhelm themselves, and to take things step by step.
“You don’t have to do everything at once — we’ll guide you through it.”
Support, Stories, and Advocacy
Arthritis Ireland’s helpline (📞 0818 252 846, Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm) offers peer-led support from volunteers with lived experience. Their website provides expert interviews, condition-specific booklets, podcasts, and powerful patient stories — often a source of reassurance for those newly diagnosed.
Fundraising remains vital to sustaining these services, with initiatives including National Arthritis Week (planned for April), awareness campaigns, raffles, and corporate partnerships.
Looking Ahead
Tara outlines a busy year ahead, including campaigns on pregnancy and arthritis, fitness for surgery, new resources, and the launch of Season 5 of the Arthritis Ireland podcast.
Her message to listeners is simple and compassionate:
“If you’re struggling, reach out. You’re not alone — and support is here.”
Contact Arthritis Ireland:
📞 0818 252 846
🌐 https://www.arthritisireland.ie
This interview aired on Disability Matters with John Comiskey on 92.5 Phoenix FM, a programme produced by Blanchardstown Centre for Independent Living (BCIL).
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