Cymraeg
Arthritis and musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions affect over 17 million people across the UK. Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are conditions that affect the nerves, tendons, muscles and supporting structures and they are related to a number of other health conditions.
Pain and restricted mobility are the main features of a range of musculoskeletal conditions. As people get older, the risk of having an MSK condition rises. Women are generally at greater risk of problems with their bones, muscles and joints than men. In many cases MSK conditions interfere with our ability to carry-out normal, day-to-day activities. Your musculoskeletal health is intrinsically linked to your lifestyle.
Key factors that have an impact on musculoskeletal health are:
- Physical activity
- Obesity
- Age and or physical frailty
- Accident or trauma
- Smoking
- Alcohol
- Diet
While the management of some MSK conditions require specialist and/or surgical care many MSK conditions can be managed through exercise, weight management, good nutrition, smoking cessation, getting enough good quality sleep and pain relief.
Aneurin Bevan University Health Board has developed this website to support the community of Gwent to understand common muscle, joint and bone concerns and what can be done to help. We have designed a three-step approach to help you understand your options and encourage you to think about all of the things that might be affecting your problem. Please work through these to help you make the most appropriate choice based on what matters to you. We hope you find what you are looking for here and perhaps discover new things. Go to Step 1
Pain and restricted mobility can have an impact on our mental health too, particularly when they prevent us from doing the things we enjoy. Aneurin Bevan University Health Board have collated a range of resources to promote and improve mental wellbeing on their Melo Cymru website. Here you will find self-help resources and links to further support such as online counselling programmes and details of organisations and services that may be able to help.
Self Care
Additional links and information
Public Health Wales have a range of resources with lifestyle advice and top tips for starting to become more active:
Versus Arthritis – for further information on the scale and impact of musculoskeletal conditions:
ARMA– Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Alliance
Arthritis Action
Education Programmes For Patients (EPP) Support obtained through this programme can be very helpful, find them on Facebook or the Gwent Association of Voluntary Organisations (GAVO) website.
Carers Trust if you are a carer, there is support for carers of people with long term conditions.
AskSARA is a web-based resource that may be able to provide additional information and support on your home, getting out and about and support with medications and symptoms
“We Are Undefeatable” is a collective movement supporting people with a range of long-term health conditions. The campaign is developed by 15 leading health and social care charities. Their purpose is to support and encourage finding ways to be active in a way that works for you and your health condition.”
