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Do I Have Arthritis?
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  • About Arthritis
    Common Topics
    woman holding her wristWhat Is Arthritis?

    Arthritis is not one disease. Learn about the different types of arthritis, how they differ and why it’s important.

    microbesInflammation and the Immune System

    Body-wide inflammation is at the root of most chronic diseases — and you may have more control over it than you think.

    Patient talking with nurseNewly Diagnosed With Arthritis

    A new arthritis diagnosis can be overwhelming. These tips can help.

    • Understanding Arthritis
    • Arthritis Types
    • More About Arthritis
    • Where it Hurts
    • Related Conditions
  • Treatments
    Common Topics
    Managing Arthritis Care Costs

    Learn the basics about health care costs and financial tools available to you.

    About Biosimilars

    More of these biologic medications will soon be available. Learn what they are, whether you should consider them and what to ask your doctor.

    Man with head in hands on bedWebinar: Arthritis Fatigue Causes and Solutions

    Learn the various causes of arthritis-related fatigue and strategies to combat weariness.

    • Treatment Plan
    • Drug Guide
    • Joint Surgery
    • Complementary Therapies
    • Insurance Management
  • Healthy Living
    Common Topics
    Woman with upset stomachMicrobiome, Gut Health & Arthritis

    Microbiome, microbes, microorganisms – these terms may be confusing, but the types of bacteria living in and on our bodies can impact arthritis. Learn what helps or harms the microbiome and the health of your gut and discover dietary changes that can make a difference. This episode was originally released on January 19, 2021.

    woman consoling anotherArthritis and Mental Health

    Learn about the connection between arthritis, depression and anxiety and how these conditions can make your arthritis worse.

    Woman ExercisingYour Exercise Solution (YES)

    Movement is the best medicine, even when your joints hurt. Your Exercise Solution (YES) is a resource to help you create a physical activity routine with modifications developed and approved by physical therapists.

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  • Juvenile Arthritis
    Common Topics
    JA Family Summit

    Learn about the National Juvenile Arthritis Conference, a place for families to connect, share and learn.

    JA Camps

    The Arthritis Foundation’s JA camp programs give kids with arthritis and related childhood rheumatic diseases the chance to make lasting memories.

    Juvenile Arthritis Volunteer

    • About Juvenile Arthritis
    • Treatment
    • Managing Pain
    • Medical Decisions
    • Nutrition
    • Emotional Well-being
  • Providers
    Common Topics
    Transforming Clinical Interactions

    The Live Yes! Arthritis community connects patients with others online and in-person for support and education, and encourages patients to play an active role in their health care.

    Partners 4 Patients with Arthritis

    The Arthritis Foundation recently launched an initiative to build stronger relationships and increase recognition of our most engaged practices. 

    Fellowships

    See how we're aiming to address the growing shortage of arthritis specialists, especially in under-served parts of the country.

    • Better Living Toolkits
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  • Science
    Common Topics
    OACS Forum Series

    The Osteoarthritis Clinical Studies Forum Series features OA thought leaders from across the globe discussing the future of how the disease can be treated to improve patient outcomes.

    man bandaging boy's kneeConquering Childhood Arthritis

    The Arthritis Foundation is mobilizing patients and their families to engage in studies comparing the effectiveness of treatments for juvenile arthritis and funding research for more options.

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    Common Topics
    Capital hillAction Center

    Take action today - use the resources here to learn who your elected officials are, what opportunities we have to advocate from the comfort of your own home, federal and state legislation, and more!

    woman listening to podcastLive Yes! With Arthritis Podcast

    You may have arthritis, but it doesn't have you. The Arthritis Foundation’s one-of-a-kind podcast. Hosted by patients, for patients.

    Walk to cure arthritisWalk To Cure Arthritis

    Join the movement and make an impact by honoring those who rock your world at the Arthritis Foundation’s signature walk event, Walk to Cure Arthritis. Register as an individual or form a team and Rock the Walk in your community!

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Dating With Arthritis

Single? Go mingle. Don’t let arthritis kill the mood.   

If you are single and have arthritis, romance may be the last thing on your mind. But research shows you feel better physically and mentally when sparks fly. So don’t count yourself out of the dating game. 

Don’t Let Arthritis Define You  

Yes, you have a chronic illness. Arthritis is an important part of your life, and it is a challenge, but it is not who you are.  

Negative thinking – like “Nobody is going to want me. I’m damaged goods” -- is common among those with arthritis. And it is not sexy to anyone, says certified sexuality educator Cory Silverberg, co-author of The Ultimate Guide to Sex and Disability: For All of Us Who Live with Disabilities, Chronic Pain, and Illness. “It isolates people and keeps them from having healthy relationships.”  

Until you start believing you are more than a disease, you will be reluctant to date. When you stop seeing yourself as a sick person, others will, too. 

Focus on Your Positive Qualities  

Everyone has strengths and weaknesses. When you are in chronic pain it is easy to let negative thoughts and feelings about yourself take over. Remember everything you bring to the table.  

Sharing your passions can help your love life. If you show someone you are a fantastic cook, a killer card player, or a super cyclist, it will keep both of you from focusing on whatever weakness your disease may cause, says Silverberg.  

Find Someone Caring  

Pay attention on the first date. Does your date talk only about them? Do they seem annoyed when minor things go wrong? If your love interest does not seem compassionate, they probably are not going to understand when you are in pain and need to cancel a date. Look for clues that Mr. or Mrs. Right is up to the task.  

“Ask yourself: does this person care about other people? Do they seem like a good friend or a nice dad/mom, if they have kids?” says Nancy Molitor, PhD, clinical assistant professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Northwestern University. “Do not convince yourself they can handle this relationship if they are giving you clues that they are not a particularly caring person.”   

Look for a Compatible Match  

They say opposites attract. But if you have eyes for a rock climber, it may be time to set limits. If they invite you for a romantic hike, tell them you can walk a few miles but you need to stay off the steep paths. If someone is looking for an active partner who can ski and run, then it may not be the best match.  

Be upfront – I am willing to try this, and not that. Or I can do this, but can’t do that, says Molitor. “Odds are, they will not reject you. And if they do, it is better to know upfront that the relationship might not work.”  

Reveal Your Illness at the Right Time    

Don’t share too much too soon. If you bring up a chronic illness on the first or second date, you risk scaring a perfectly good person away. Wait and see if love is in the air first, then think about the best time to open up.  

“Get a feel for the person before you disclose anything too intimate. If they are a sharer, then you might tell them sooner. Stick to the basics and do not let it dominate the entire conversation,” says Molitor.  

But don’t wait too long either. “Once you decide that you like someone enough to pursue a relationship, that is generally a good time to have a conversation about your condition. Describing how the illness affects you, and how that may affect the relationship is important. It helps create realistic expectations and an honest foundation on which to build,” advises Kira Lynne, a psychotherapist and author of Aches, Pains, and Love: A Guide to Dating and Relationships for Those With Chronic Pain and Illness.  

Explain Your Disease  

It is hard to understand what we have not experienced. Even the most caring partner can struggle with understanding what arthritis feels like. Describes your symptoms in terms people can relate to, such as the soreness you feel after a hard workout at the gym.  

“Doom and gloom is not the way to go,” says Silverberg. “You want to be realistic about any issues you have, but focus on how you are living with it. You are not dead, and you are not contagious!” 

Don’t Take Rejection Personally  

Not everyone wants to date someone with a chronic illness. That says more about them than it does about you, explains Lynne. “Say goodbye and move on to someone who likes and loves you for who you are. You are so much more than your arthritis,” she adds.  

Be Open to the Boy Next Door  

Love can work in mysterious ways. Do not ignore romantic signals from people you already know. You may fall  in love with a friend –someone who had seen you at your best and worst long before for years. Sometimes the best person is right there in front of you. 
 

Tune in to our Live Yes! With Arthritis podcast episode on dating with arthritis to hear the experiences of singles with chronic conditions.

Family & Relationships
View All Articles
Preserving Healthy Relationships

Family & Relationships

Preserving Healthy Relationships
Arthritis can be hard on relationships, but learning to cope can strengthen bonds – and even bring blessings.
Read More
Tips for Coping With Pregnancy and Arthritis

Family & Relationships

Tips for Coping With Pregnancy and Arthritis
When you’re pregnant with arthritis, you may face a new set of challenges, both physically and mentally. Get some insights and advice from one mother who was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis.
Read More
Discuss What's on Your Mind
Get informed and inspired, ask a question or start a new conversation in our discussion forums.
Join Now
Track+React: What You Do, How You Feel
This wellness tool lets you track activities and symptoms so you can make adjustments that help.
Learn More

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Every gift to the Arthritis Foundation will help people with arthritis across the U.S. live their best life. Whether it is supporting cutting-edge research, 24/7 access to one-on-one support, resources and tools for daily living, and more, your gift will be life-changing.

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The Arthritis Foundation is focused on finding a cure and championing the fight against arthritis with life-changing information, advocacy, science and community. We can only achieve these goals with your help. Strong, outspoken and engaged volunteers will help us conquer arthritis. By getting involved, you become a leader in our organization and help make a difference in the lives of millions. Join us and become a Champion of Yes.

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Meet Our Partners

As a partner, you will help the Arthritis Foundation provide life-changing resources, science, advocacy and community connections for people with arthritis, the nations leading cause of disability. Join us today and help lead the way as a Champion of Yes.

Trailblazer

Our Trailblazers are committed partners ready to lead the way, take action and fight for everyday victories. They contribute $2,000,000 to $2,749,000

Visionary

Our Visionary partners help us plan for a future that includes a cure for arthritis. These inspired and inventive champions have contributed $1,500,00 to $1,999,999.

Pioneer

Our Pioneers are always ready to explore and find new weapons in the fight against arthritis. They contribute $1,000,000 to $1,499,999.

Pacesetter

Our Pacesetters ensure that we can chart the course for a cure for those who live with arthritis. They contribute $500,000 to $999,000.

Signature

Our Signature partners make their mark by helping us identify new and meaningful resources for people with arthritis. They contribute $250,000 to $499,999.

Supporting

Our Supporting partners are active champions who provide encouragement and assistance to the arthritis community. They contribute $100,000 to $249,999.

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