Axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) Self-Care Plan

Being diagnosed with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA), ankylosing spondylitis (AS) or non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (nr-axSpA) can be frightening. It can make you feel lonely, angry and confused. That is why Musculoskeletal Australia’s self-care plans are an essential tool to support you as you navigate your musculoskeletal health journey.

Developed in collaboration with consumers (like you) who live with these conditions, health care professionals, researchers and other experts, our self-care plans are specially designed to empower you.

Self-care plans are about supporting you to be an active participant and driver of your musculoskeletal health.

Understanding your condition, making sure you are aware of treatment options and being a central part of your health care team means you can make choices and decisions that will help…YOU!

Musculoskeletal Australia’s self-care plans have been developed thanks to the generous support of AbbVie.

Read the plan | Download the plan

Overview of Plan

Whether you are starting out on your journey with axSpA, AS, or nr-axSpA, or have been navigating your expedition for some time, this self-care plan has been developed specifically for YOU!

This self-care plan is designed to be used by YOU for your unique circumstances. We know there is a lot of information out there which can be overwhelming and confusing. This self-care plan helps you to work through all that information in a way that suits you. It is easy to understand, practical and most importantly puts YOU in control as you navigate your journey.

Tips and Tools

Tip 1 – Don’t sit down and read the plan from beginning to end! Your axSpA, AS or nr-axSpA journey is unique to you. So is your self-care plan! Scan the plan. Focus on the areas that are most concerning you and start there. Put the plan down and ‘digest’ the information and what it means for you. Then come back to it and start another section.

Tip 2 – Make notes, jot down questions as you build your self-care plan

Tip 3 – Take a copy of your self-care plan to appointments with your health care team and discuss your thoughts, questions and understanding of what is right for you

Tip 4 – Knowledge is POWER! Improving your health literacy, understanding axSpA , and being aware of your treatment and management options is essential.

This is your musculoskeletal health journey. Musculoskeletal Australia’s axSpA Self-care plan is an essential tool to support you to navigate that journey.