health Health news All the latest news and products for your wellbeing Test detects antibodies Did you know? Osteoarthritis is not a normal part of ageing, but your risk of developing the condition does increase as you get older New research has found that it may be possible to predict even earlier how patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) will respond to biologic drugs. The treatment stops working after a few months in one in five people. The study, conducted by the University of Manchester, looked at 311 patients with RA. Blood samples were tested at three, six and 12-month intervals after patients had started two different biologic drugs, to see whether they had developed anti-drug antibodies. Previously, it was thought that testing would only be helpful immediately before the next course of drugs was due. Twenty five per cent of those receiving the drug adalimumab developed antibodies, but no antibodies were found in those using etanercept. In a clinical setting, treatment could be adjusted depending on a patients drug and antibodies levels. STrAIghT TALkIng A lumbar support that fits the unique anatomy of your back has been developed by bac<, in conjunction with The London Spine Clinic. The Backboard can be bent into any position, for tailored support, and is light enough to take wherever you want, flexible enough to meet the exact shape of your back, and stiff enough to give it effective support. Adopting a good sitting position is the perfect antidote to postural stresses and strain, and the Backboard may help in this. It slides into the back of a chair to support the lumbar area of your back and create a natural inward curve, thereby preventing the lower back from slumping or sagging outwards. Simple in design and effective in improving posture and restoring the natural curve of your spine when seated, the stylish bac< Backboard costs 49.99 and available in six colours. It also comes with a seat-retainer strap and detachable sleeve that holds hot or cool pads for additional therapy for the lower back. n For more information, visit www.backpainhelp.com