Arthritis diagnosis surprising but not the end of the world

When Kuraby’s Christine Haines began to experience excruciating pain in her neck, she realised it was more than muscle strain.After various tests and referrals, Christine was diagnosed with Ankylosing spondylitis (AS), a form of arthritis that involves the joints of the neck, back or pelvis becoming inflamed, causing pain and stiffness. AS can also affect other parts of the body, such as the eyes, skin, bowel and lungs.

People with AS are often diagnosed between 15 and 45, but in Christine’s case, her diagnosis occurred when she was in her early 50′s.

“For a while I was devastated and could not leave the house because I knew one day I may end up having to use a wheelchair,” Christine said during Arthritis Awareness Week (29 March – 4 April).

“But I realised I needed to keep going and get back into work to stay motivated. So I joined as a member of the Spinal Injuries Association and they pointed me in the right direction with future employment opportunities.”

Spinal Injuries Association CEO Mark Henley said while the organisation predominantly consisted of members with spinal cord injuries, there were a number of members who had some form of arthritis and in particular AS, because it directly affected the spine.

“Our not-for-profit organisation offers a range of services from personal care, to community linking with other organisations, information, advocacy and an employment service for our members,” Mr Henley said.

“We are dedicated to enhancing the lives of our members and believe in empowering them to live as independently and comfortably as possible.”

With years of retail management experience, Christine said she did not want to wallow in her condition and is now taking part in further study, with the ultimate goal of having her own consulting company for clients in the retail industry.

“It’s difficult to have a job away from home because day-to-day you don’t know if you’ll be physically well enough to go to work,” Christine said.
“I take each day as it comes and the days when I’m feeling well, I go extra hard to get all of my work and study done.”

In some cases as a result of the inflammation in the spine from AS, new bone may grow around the joints, which can lead to permanent stiffness in the back or neck. In extreme cases this extra bone can fuse the bones in the spine together and stop it from moving.

Currently, it is not known what causes AS and there is no cure for the condition. However, it can be managed with physiotherapy and medication.

The Spinal Injuries Association was formed in 1960 and is devoted to assisting and empowering its members to live independently. For more information please visit www.spinal.com.au.

Issued 30 March.