Join the global social media movement for World Arthritis Day

Today is World Arthritis Day or WAD.

Established in 1996 by Arthritis and Rheumatism International, WAD is a global initiative to raise awareness of issues affecting people with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs).

Celebrated every year on 12 October, WAD also aims to ensure people with RMDs and their caregivers are aware of support networks around them.

Today, people from around the world are being encouraged to join together to make their voices heard!

High 5 for World Arthritis Day by sharing #WADHigh5 messages on social media with these 4 steps:

STEP 1 Write a name on your hand – the name of the person(s) you are High 5ing for World Arthritis Day

STEP 2 Take a photo of your hand in a High 5 pose

STEP 3 Write a message to accompany your photo: tell people why you are sharing a High 5 for World Arthritis Day with a clear and concise message of support or call to action in the text accompanying your photo

STEP 4 Post your photo to social media using the hashtag #WADHigh5. Don’t forget to tag or @mention the person you are High 5ing

Or you can upload your image directly to the World Arthritis Day gallery.

According to Arthritis Australia 3.85 million people or nearly one in five Australians, have arthritis. There are more than 100 forms of arthritis but the three most significant are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout, which represent more than 95 per cent of Australian cases.

It affects the musculoskeletal system and symptoms include pain, stiffness, inflammation and joint weakness. This can affect basic daily tasks, such as walking, driving and cooking.

According to arthritis Australia, Australia’s ageing population means the number of people with arthritis is growing. Current trends suggest that by 2050, seven million Australians will suffer from some form of the disease. Arthritis affects people of all ages and research suggests early intervention can delay the onset. There is no cure.

By creating awareness of arthritis, you can be part of this global movement and show someone close to you that you care.