Arthritis Program

More information:
Phone (905) 895-4521 extension 2345

Please note:
The Arthritis Program is located at the
Tannery Mall, 465 Davis Drive, Suite 403

The Arthritis Program (TAP) delivers effective assessment, treatment and education to individuals of all ages who are diagnosed with inflammatory joint diseases (rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and juvenile joint disease) degenerative joint disease, including erosive and nodal osteoarthritis, osteoporosis and fibromyalgia.

Services offered by TAP include:

Inflammatory arthritis
Osteoarthritis
Juvenile arthritis
Osteoporosis
Fibromyalgia

Through the combined expertise of a professional health care team, individuals learn how to manage their illness and reduce the impact of symptoms on their lives. Members of the team include:

• Dietitian
• Occupational therapists
• Pharmacist
• Physical therapists
• Rehabilitation assistant
• Rheumatologists (doctors who specialize in treating arthritis)
• Kinesiologist
• Social worker

A secretary and several dedicated volunteers also support the team.

Inflammatory Arthritis

Inflammatory arthritis is a complex disease that can affect many systems of the body. If left untreated, damage to the joints may occur. There are many types of inflammatory arthritis including Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus and Psoriatic Arthritis. Common symptoms include joint swelling, pain, stiffness and general fatigue.

The program is designed to increase the patient's understanding of their disease and to help bring it into remission. Three consecutive weeks of treatment, education and comprehensive rehabilitation (specialized and focused therapy) are provided to individuals with inflammatory arthritis. Patients also receive regular monitoring assessments with a pharmacist, physical therapist and occupational therapist. Rheumatologists are closely linked with the program and offer their expertise to team members and patients on an as need basis.

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Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA), or "wear and tear" arthritis as it is often called, is a breakdown of the cartilage that provides a cushioning effect at the end of each bone. Symptoms may be gradual and include pain and stiffness in such joints as the hips, and knees. Osteoarthritis can also occur in the spine, at the end of the fingers, and at the base of the thumbs.

TAP offers a two-part series of education and treatment classes to individuals with osteoarthritis. The overall purpose of the series is to increase the patient's knowledge of their disease and to help them improve their quality of life. Part one consists of five afternoon sessions to discuss exercise, weight control, lifestyle changes and medication. Part two consists of nine gradually intensified exercise sessions and the development of a tailored home program for each patient. Participants will also work with members of the team to determine an individualized treatment program. Family members are welcome to attend.

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Juvenile Arthritis

TAP's Juvenile Arthritis service is designed for children 15 years of age and under. The program provides assessment and treatment and, as required, works as each patients' liaison with the Hospital for Sick Children, Hugh MacMillan Rehabilitation Centre, local paediatricians, community agencies and schools to ensure the child can excel through every day activities. Treatment can include splinting, manual stretching techniques, muscle strengthening exercises in a therapeutic pool and, most importantly, joint movement through fun activities.

Children are monitored and treated throughout the progression of their disease. As treatments can vary, the program educates parents on how to provide daily care for their child and how to recognize when the skills of a health care professional are required. In addition to a strong belief in education, the program's staff also encourages interaction amongst families that have loved ones who are living with juvenile arthritis.

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Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a silent, painless disease where, over time, a bone becomes fragile due to bone loss and strength. If undetected and untreated, it can gradually result in the bone breaking.

TAP offers education and awareness classes to individuals with osteoporosis and teaches them how to maximize their function through exercise, diet, lifestyle changes and medication. The service is designed to increase a participant's knowledge and control over their illness.

Participants are invited to attend a two-morning workshop that includes lectures and demonstrations by each member of the treatment team. Family members are welcome to attend. In addition, an exercise program is available and conducted by the TAP staff at the Newmarket Seniors Meeting Place located at on 474 Davis Drive.

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Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia produces widespread pain that affects women more often than men. Symptoms include generalized aching, poor sleep, stiffness upon waking and fatigue throughout the day.

TAP offers assessment, education, treatment and exercise classes to individuals with fibromyalgia. During one three-hour session, information is provided on management of symptoms and how individuals can gain control over their lives. Patients are then invited to attend education and exercise classes that are offered one day a week over a seven-week period.

Southlake Awarded $52,500 from the Change Foundation's 2003 Grants for Innovation in Health Care

Arthritis Program celebrates a decade of service.

For information on resources available to you during your hospital visit or stay (for example: parking, what to bring, discharge times and other helpful information) please click on Patients and Visitors.

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