Arthritis And Sport Can Equal Success

Media Release issued by Arthritis New Zealand

11 February 2011

Arthritis And Sport Can Equal Success

“Having arthritis does not automatically mean you have to give up sport” is the advice Arthritis New Zealand is issuing on the back of the announcement that four time world rowing champion Mahe Drysdale’s training for the London Olympics is affected by his arthritis.

“We congratulate Mahe on his approach,” says Sandra Kirby, Chief Executive of Arthritis New Zealand. “Mahe, joins the 250,000 people of working age in New Zealand living with arthritis. While arthritis might change your approach to some activities, with planning, good support and professional assistance, arthritis is not a barrier to being an active participant in sport, or in life.”

“It doesn't matter if you engage in rowing, other sport professionally, or for recreation, you are at risk all the time.”

When arthritis develops as a result of injuries, it is generally referred to as ‘secondary’ osteoarthritis. That means the deterioration of the cartilage was caused by a traumatic injury. It can take years after the injury for arthritis to develop.

“If you look at our ambassadors like Neemia Tialata and James Lowe, although they are living with arthritis they are still leading very successful careers in sport. Mahe and Clementine Marshall (formerly of the New Zealand Women’s Eight Rowing Team) who also has arthritis, will be able to share training tips – some of which will help current rowers who don’t have arthritis.” says Ms Kirby

“A diagnosis of arthritis doesn’t mean becoming a spectator in life, you can learn to manage your arthritis and have a success in the sporting arena.”

“Like Mahe, making adjustments to your training schedule to have breaks for rest and relaxation can be the starting blocks to managing your arthritis effectively.”

ENDS

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