Write to us at: Inspire, 1 Cambridge Technopark, Newmarket Road, Cambridge, CB5 8PB, or email inspire@versusarthritis.org Ask the doctor Q Whether its a health niggle or emotional problem, DR SARAH JARVIS gets straight to the point I live with my husband, who has done a lot of the day-to-day tasks at home because of my arthritis. However, hes been unwell recently and cant help much. Ive been referred to an occupational therapist how will they help? Dr Sarah Jarvis answers: Occupational therapists (OTs) and physiotherapists work closely together and have complementary roles. Both are protected titles all OTs and physiotherapists must undertake specific training and ongoing education to keep their skills up to date. Both are regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council, and it is illegal to practise without being registered with this body. A physiotherapist will work with you to improve your mobility, movement and strength. This may involve: tailored exercises and physical activity advice; manual therapy (hands-on manipulation to improve range of movement, stiffness and pain); and advice on lifting techniques and posture. They can also, sometimes, offer hydrotherapy (exercises in a pool). An OT focuses more on your daily activities and pinpointing tasks that you find challenging. This will involve a full assessment, often in your own home. Their aim is to help you function as independently as possible, and to make your life easier. The sort of things they can help with include: Providing equipment and devices that make skills easier to perform for example, electric can openers and toothbrushes, wide-handled vegetable peelers, walking frames Recommending and arranging fittings of home adaptations, such as grab rails Advice on breaking down tasks into manageable steps Showing you how to complete activities in different ways A risk assessment of your workplace, if appropriate, to identify adaptations that could make it easier for you to attend Teaching you how to get in and out of chairs, bed, the bath or shower safely Advice on tasks requiring fine motor skills for example, undoing buttons or picking up small objects. Ask the expert Q GILLIAN COYLE is a Helpline Advisor for Versus Arthritis How can I keep enjoying my garden when I have arthritis in my hands and knees? Gillian answers: For many people, their garden is the go-to place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Others have created their gardens indoors, introducing more plants around their homes, to help with their emotional wellbeing. Having arthritis does not mean the end of you enjoying your garden, but you have to make some changes as to how you go about things. Gardening is a great way to exercise joints and their surrounding muscles, but doing jobs that take a long time can lead to painful hands and knees. Breaking tasks into 20-minute segments puts less strain on the muscles and joints. Long-handled tools and kneelers are helpful in relieving stress on your knees. You can also buy tools with ergonomic handles, so they are more comfortable to hold. Good hand splints can be useful when working outside. Take a look at the gardening section on our website for more tips. And remember, take some time to relax and enjoy your garden after all your hard work! 12 Inspire Autumn 22 pp12 Ask.indd 12 16/08/2022 16:45