Gong marks launch of Reumabeweegwijzer

The Dutch Arthritis Foundation launches a special online tool for people with arthritis, called the Reumabeweegwijzer (‘Arthritis Exercise Guide’). Using this guide, patients can easily search for local sports’ activities. The guide stimulates them to get into action because sensible exercises for people with arthritis can reduce their complaints. The guide is launched before World Arthritis Day, that takes place on Sunday 12 October.

“We want to stimulate patients to start exercising. Even if you have arthritis, you can find sports’ activities that fit your possibilities”, explains Sija de Jong, manager patients’ Advocacy at the Dutch Arthritis Foundation. “The exercise programs are given by expert therapists, so patients are reassured that the exercises are adapted to their abilities." The sports’ activities are organized by patients’ associations and co-funded by the Dutch Arthritis Foundation.

Prof. Thea Vliet Vlieland, Professor of Orthopaedics, Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy stresses the importance of exercising: ”Research shows that exercising helps people with arthritis. The muscles become stronger and it keeps joints flexible. It also improves endurance”. Coco Broeken, ambassador of the 2014 Dutch Arthritis Foundation campaign, sounds the gong.

For more information: www.reumabeweegwijzer.nl

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