Types of Health professionals
Physiotherapist
Physiotherapists play an important role in the self-management of arthritis. Physiotherapists can help improve mobility, function and joint protection to help reduce symptoms of arthritis, like pain. They are trained to understand the structure of the human body and how it moves. Physiotherapists can develop safe, personalised exercise programs for you to help manage your condition.
To find a physiotherapist near you, visit the Australian Physiotherapy Association website
Exercise Physiologist
Exercise physiologists specialise in designing and delivering safe and effective exercise programs for people with chronic medical conditions, injuries or disabilities. They can give you advice about exercise, including the best type of exercise for your health and ability. You can find an accredited exercise physiologist via the Exercise and Sports Science Australia website.
Occupational therapist
Occupational therapists can provide advice on how to do things in a way that reduces joint strain and pain and teach you strategies to protect the mobility of your joints, particularly those in your hand. Occupational therapists can support sustained engagement with physical activity by improving everyday activities. You can find an occupational therapist via the Occupational Therapy Australia website.
Podiatrist
Podiatrists specialise in conditions affecting the feet and lower limbs. They may find ways to reduce the pain in your toes, knees or hips, perhaps by providing shoe inserts (orthoses) or advice on footwear. Podiatrists can help identify and reduce limitations that may impact your movement. You can find a podiatrist via the Australasian Podiatry Association website.
Dietitian
Dietitians are experts in food and nutrition. They provide advice about healthy eating, weight loss and diets for medical conditions, such as diabetes. You can find a dietitian via the Dietitians Association of Australia website.
Rheumatologist
Rheumatologists are specialists who diagnose and treat arthritis and other musculoskeletal conditions. A rheumatologist will work with you and the other members your healthcare team to design a program to treat your disease, manage your pain and maximise your quality of life. You can find a rheumatologist via the Australian Rheumatology Association website.
Psychologist
Psychologists help people and the community find ways to improve mental health and wellbeing. Psychologists treat the psychological problems and behavioural dysfunctions that result from, or are related to, physical and mental health. While psychologists can see people for various reasons, the most common conditions psychologists see are people who have been highly anxious and/or depressed for a long time, trauma, drug or alcohol abuse, or those that want help for chronic conditions that is interfering with their lives. You can find a psychologist via the Australian Psychology Society website.