Middle East Arthritis Foundation Launches Arthritis Self-Management Program

The special six-week program illustrates how to effectively manage the disease and helps patients live life to the fullest

Dubai, UAE, 19 April 2017 – The Middle East Arthritis Foundation has developed an interactive Arthritis Self-Management Program (ASMP) aimed to help chronic illness patients, particularly those afflicted with various forms of Arthritis, ‘self-manage’ their condition.

With two-hour long sessions taking place every Saturday for six weeks, Arthritis patients can sign up for the free-of-charge program to be hosted at the Towers Rotana Hotel in Dubai from 29th April until 3rd June 2017.

The six-week workshop sessions will cover a range of topics and activities, including group discussions and physical activity, all aimed at reducing the impact of the disease on the daily lives of patients.

“We developed the ASMP to enable patients to live life to the fullest, with less stress, more energy and a greater ability to do the things they want to do.  Chronic conditions such as Arthritis are among the most common health problems in the world, which is why this program was designed - to reduce the symptoms of these illnesses and improve overall quality of life,” says Dr. Humeira Badsha, Consultant Rheumatologist who is heading up the program.

During the workshops, patients will learn improved mobility, sleep, and sense of wellbeing, as well as stress reduction.  They will also be exposed to peer support which includes exercising in a class with others coping with similar conditions.

Dubai-resident Sanria Khan, a long-time Arthritis patient taking part in the program, says: “Knowing things like which type of exercise is right for you, and practicing the correct stretching, breathing, endurance and balance activities are important factors in effectively managing and living with Arthritis.  This program will help those afflicted to fully understand the disease and learn how to better manage the condition themselves.”

The six-week program, led by a team of trained instructors, tailors activities for each person’s ability and skill level.  

It aims to help patients to:

•    Cope with symptoms
•    Manage fatigue
•    Handle stress
•    Reduce depression
•    Communicate with doctors
•    Manage medications
•    Eat healthy
•    Be active

“We encourage all who experience some form of chronic disease to sign up for this workshop and attend the sessions.  Six weeks will make a significant difference in the rest of these patients’ lives,” concludes Dr. Badsha.

Event Details: 

Date: Saturday, 29th April – Saturday, 3rd June 2017
Time: 10:30 – 12:30, every Saturday for six weeks
Venue: Towers Rotana Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai
How to register: Call 050 534 3182