Health Information - Musculoskeletal Health Australia (MHA)

07/Jun/2024

Tips for preventing falls

The 80’s song ‘catch me I’m falling’ could have been my family anthem. We’re clumsy, uncoordinated, and with two left feet, always slipping, tripping, and falling. 😁

It‘s just the way we are. I’ve even gotten to the point of doing a ‘ta-da’ after a trip, extending my arms over my head like a gymnast at the end of a routine.😀

But now, as I’m getting older, it’s not so amusing. I’m conscious of the more serious repercussions of falling. In fact, just last week, I tripped over my cat, whacked the side of my head on the kitchen counter and broke my glasses. Fortunately, I wasn’t seriously injured. But it made me take stock, stop thinking about falls as something I have to put up with and start being more proactive in preventing them.

Because the good news is that falls aren’t inevitable. They can often be prevented, or at the least, any injuries that occur can be minimised.

Let’s start with some facts

Data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare shows that falls are Australia’s largest contributor to injuries that require a stay in hospital and are a leading cause of injury deaths.(1) More than half of the hospitalisations were due to broken bones – often hips, vertebrae and wrists.

Falls can happen anywhere and to anyone, but a fall that lands you in hospital is more common in older people and most likely to occur in the home.

The stats are alarming, and like me, you may think these were falls from a height or down stairs. But the truth is, ‘over half of all falls leading to hospitalisation occurred on a single-level surface (for example, by slipping), and only 7% of falls leading to hospitalisation involved stairs or steps.’(1) 😱

And if you have osteoporosis and your bones are already fragile, the risk of breaking a bone due to a fall is much greater.

So to avoid becoming one of these stats, we can’t see falls as an inevitable part of life and getting older. They’re a serious problem, and we all need to take steps to prevent them.

We know that falls can result in broken bones, but they can also cause:

Dislocated joints (e.g. shoulder)
Head injuries
Bruises, scrapes and sprains
A loss of confidence which can lead to restricting activities due to the fear of falling. For example, avoiding walks in the park or going into places that are unfamiliar, crowded or have stairs/steps due to fear of falls,

What causes people to fall?

Health issues

If you’ve fallen more than once in the past 6 months, you’re more likely to fall again.(2)
Medical conditions that lead to reduced strength and endurance (e.g. arthritis), loss of sensation (e.g. diabetic neuropathy), impaired balance (e.g. Parkinson’s disease) and cognitive impairment (e.g. dementia).
Medicine side effects, especially if you’re taking several medicines.
Poor eyesight and vision problems.
Incontinence. Rushing to the toilet can increase your risk of falling, especially at night.

The environment

Trip hazards in your home and the community, e.g. clutter, cords and cables, wet and/or slippery floors, uneven footpaths, and pets.
Poor lighting.
Inappropriate or ill-fitting footwear and clothing.

Reducing your risk

Falls are usually caused by a combination of factors. Changing some of these factors can lower your chances of falling. Or, if you do fall, reduce your risk of serious injury.

Exercise regularly

Australian physical activity and exercise guidelines recommend that all adults be active most days, preferably every day, for 30 minutes or more. Exercise is vital for good health, maintaining independence, and lowering your risk of falls and fall-related injuries. Physical activity helps to maintain and improve your mobility, strength, posture, coordination, balance and flexibility.

People with better posture, better balance and stronger muscles are less likely to fall or be injured. On the other hand, people who aren’t very active are more likely to fall and be injured than those who are more active.

Talk with your doctor, physiotherapist or exercise physiologist for information and advice about how you can safely become more active.

And read Exercise for preventing falls by The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners for more info.

Look after your health

Talk with your doctor about your medicines. Some medicines can help reduce falls, such as pain-relievers that decrease your pain and allow you to move more comfortably and be more active. However, some medicines or combinations of medicines can cause dizziness, drowsiness or confusion, which increases your risk of falling. Understanding your medicines and how they affect you is an important strategy for reducing this risk.
Eat a healthy, balanced diet with regular meals throughout the day to avoid feeling lightheaded, weak or dizzy. Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water each day.
Limit alcohol intake as it can affect your balance and coordination and increase your risk of falling.
Have your eyes tested regularly by an optometrist. If you wear glasses, keep them clean. If you have different glasses for different situations, e.g. reading or distance glasses, make sure you use the appropriate ones for the task. Be careful when going up and down stairs if you wear multifocals.
Wear sunglasses outside to minimise glare and squinting and to protect your eyes from UV damage.
When moving from a light to a dark space, or vice versa, allow time for your eyes to adjust.
See a podiatrist if you have problems with your feet that affect your balance or how you walk; for example, pins and needles, pain, swelling, or poor circulation. They can help you address these issues. They can also give you advice about appropriate footwear.
Take time to regain your balance after lying down or standing up after sitting.

Move around safely

If you’re unsteady on your feet or have painful feet, hips or knees, you may need some support to get around. A physiotherapist or occupational therapist can help you decide if a mobility aid (e.g. a walking stick or walker) is appropriate for you. They’ll also help you learn how to use it correctly and adjust it to your requirements.
Plan your outings to fit how you’re feeling. For example, if you’re at the shopping centre and feel tired or your feet begin to hurt, you might need to sit and rest for a while. Or, avoid going for a long walk if you’re having a day when your pain and fatigue levels are high. Take a shorter walk instead.
Be aware of the weather and how it can affect your environment. For example, footpaths are often slippery when wet, especially if there are wet leaves on them. Or, on sunny days, sun glare can make visibility more difficult, and you may not be able to see as clearly as usual.

Choose your clothing and footwear carefully

Avoid long trousers or skirts that may get caught underfoot or on furniture.
Wear well-fitting, supportive shoes with non-slip soles. Avoid high heels, floppy slippers, shoes with slick soles, and walking around in your socks.
Hip protectors may be an option for people with osteoporosis or those who fall often. They’re plastic shields or foam pads that fit into the pockets of specially designed underwear and reduce hip fractures from a fall. Your doctor can give you more information about hip protectors.

Reduce the hazards in your home

Make sure mats, rugs and carpet edges are lying flat on the ground and well secured. If they’re loose or curled up, they can cause you to trip.
Clean up spills from the floor immediately. If you have balance issues and bending over is a problem, ask someone else to clean the floor or use a light mop.
Ensure your walkways are clear of clutter, and you have plenty of space to walk between furniture without anything getting in your way.
Remove cords and cables from walkways. Secure them to skirting boards or close to the wall.
Install non-slip mats in the bathroom.
Pets can be a trip hazard (as I learned the hard way), especially if they like to be close to you or it’s meal time. 😼 So be aware of where they are when you’re up and about. 🐶
Make sure your home is well-lit so you can always see where you’re going. If you get up in the night frequently to go to the toilet, make sure you have a bright bedside light or use a torch so you can see clearly. Motion sensor lights are also handy and can be plugged into power points on the way to the toilet.
Consider installing a handrail on at least one side of any stairs and next to baths, showers and toilets.
Safety strips on the edges of outdoor stairs are also a good idea. They provide additional grip and help you see exactly where the edge of the step is.

What to do if you fall

Sometimes, no matter how careful you are, you can still have a fall.

So if you have a fall, it’s important that you try not to panic (easier said than done 😑). And although your first reaction may be to get up quickly, especially if you’re in public, because you’re embarrassed (been there, done that), take a moment.

Assess the situation. Are you hurt? Is it safe to get up? Have you damaged your glasses? Or lost your walking stick?
Make a decision whether or not to try to get up. Factoring into your decision will be whether you’re safe where you are, e.g. have you fallen onto a footpath or the road?

If you can get up:

Take time to recover. Sit and let yourself get over the shock. Drink some water. Take stock of your injuries.
Tell someone you’ve had a fall and/or seek medical advice. Don’t just brush it off. Falls can signify that something’s wrong – e.g. medicine side effects, balance problems, or a new health issue.

If you can’t get up:

Try sliding or crawling to seek help.
Use your phone or personal alarm, call for help or make a loud noise to attract attention.
Make yourself as comfortable as possible until help arrives
Seek medical advice/or call an ambulance.

Services to help keep you safe

If you’ve done all you can to prevent falls and are still concerned about your risk, there are services available to help you.

Falls and balance clinics provide multidisciplinary assessment and management planning for people who’ve had falls and have mobility and balance problems. People receive information on making their homes safer and are referred to physiotherapy, occupational therapy, exercise classes and other allied health professionals. Talk with your doctor about whether this might be an option for you.
Personal alarms. There are two basic personal alarm options; a pendant you wear around your neck and a smartwatch worn on your wrist. Pressing the button on the alarm will trigger contact with the service company, who’ll then contact your nominated relative, friend, neighbour or a response service. Some people can access free or reduced-cost personal alarms through government schemes such as the Commonwealth Home Support Program, National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and Department of Veterans’ Affairs. Visit their websites or speak with your doctor to see if you’re eligible. A variety of private companies provide this service for a fee if you don’t qualify for the free service.
Red Cross Telecross is a free service offered by the Australian Red Cross. It aims to provide people who live alone and are at risk of illness or accident the peace of mind that someone is looking out for them. Each morning, every day of the year, trained volunteers make a short call to people’s homes. If the call goes unanswered, Red Cross will take action to make sure that the person is OK. For information about accessing Telecross, call Red Cross on 1300 885 698.

Contact our free national Help Line

Call our nurses if you have questions about managing your pain, musculoskeletal condition, treatment options, mental health issues, telehealth, or accessing services. They’re available Monday to Thursday between 9am-5pm on 1800 263 265; email (helpline@muscha.org) or via Messenger.

More to explore

April Falls
NSW Fall Prevention and Healthy Ageing Network
Don’t fall for it. Falls can be prevented!
Australian Government. Department of Health and Aged Care.
Falls and preventing harm from falls
Government of South Australia, SA Health
Falls prevention
Victorian Government, Department of Health
Fend off falls
Arthritis Foundation
Five things you can do at home to improve balance and prevent falls
Exercise Right
How can balancing exercises help to reduce your risk of a fall?
Versus Arthritis
Preventing falls and slips when you have arthritis: 15 important tips
Creaky Joints

References

(1) Falls, Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2022.
(2) Falls and the elderly, healthdirect, 2020.

Originally written and published by Lisa Bywaters 2022.

Musculoskeletal Health Australia

06/Jun/2024

Budget-friendly tips for staying warm this winter

Sadly winter is more than just lazy Sundays when you can stay at home, warm on the couch with a loved one. Reality means we need to eventually (and reluctantly) head out of our cosy homes and face the cold, wet winter. And when we’re at home, because of crazy energy prices and rising living costs, we have to make hard decisions about how to spend the household budget. Heating is one of the more significant costs in winter, so many people are forced to reduce it to save money.

For those of us with conditions like fibromyalgia, lupus, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, back pain, scleroderma, and Raynauds’ phenomenon, this can be a painful problem. We often feel the cold more keenly with increased joint and muscle pain or lack of blood circulation to the extremities.

So, how can you stay warm and keep the costs down this winter? We’ve got some suggestions for you to try.

Dress for the weather.

Let’s start with the basics. You need to dress for the temperature and wear layers. It can sometimes feel cumbersome and bulky, but it’s one of our best defenses against the cold. So put on the warm pants and jumper, embrace your inner Wiggle and wear a skivvy, pull on your thick socks and/or tights and appropriate footwear. If you’re still cold, consider adding thermals to your layers.

When you head outdoors, add more layers – including a coat, hat, gloves, and scarf. You can also buy a fantastic range of heated vests, socks, scarves, and gloves. They can be a little pricey, but they may be worth that initial outlay if you’re outdoors a lot. Check online or in-store at outdoor suppliers.

If you’re at home and still feeling the cold, grab a blanket for your legs as you sit at your desk or on the couch. You can use any warm blanket, doona or heated throw. Whatever you choose, just be careful you don’t trip on it when you get up.

Shop around.

Don’t assume you’re on the best energy plans for your gas and electricity. Take some time to see if there’s a better deal. If you live in Victoria, visit Victorian Energy Compare. For all other parts of Australia, visit Energy Made Easy.

Deal with draughts.

When the wind’s howling outside, you know it’s trying to find a way indoors 💨. So cover the bottom of your door with a door snake or an old towel, or add some door seals. Pull your curtains and blinds over the windows at night and during miserable days to keep the warmth inside. If you have floorboards, consider putting down rugs (just be careful they don’t become a trip hazard).

If you can safely do so, close or cover air-conditioning vents, exhaust fans, and unused chimneys. However, it’s important to be aware that some gas appliances require a certain amount of ventilation or fresh air, or they can be unsafe. They should also be serviced every two years or sooner if you notice anything unusual. If in doubt, speak with a licensed gas fitter. Energy Safe Victoria has lots of useful info about heating your home with gas and what to look for when searching for a licensed gas fitter.

Sustainability Victoria also has helpful information on draught-proofing your home. You can also watch these handy DIY draught-proofing videos from the City of Port Phillip (Melbourne).

Turn down the temperature.

While it’s tempting to crank the heat up, the most efficient temperature to set your heater to (if you can select the temp) is 18-20 degrees. While that may not sound particularly warm, we’re often outside during the warmer months wearing short sleeves when it’s 18-20 degrees. It’s just a matter of perspective.

And only heat the areas you’re using. If you can turn the heating off in unused parts of your home, do it. Shut the doors and use a draught stopper to prevent the warm air from the rest of the house from escaping into these areas. And turn the heating off when you go to bed or leave home.

Install heavy curtains.

Thick curtains made from heavyweight, tightly woven fabrics can prevent heat from escaping your home. For the best results, curtains should be fitted as close to the window frame as possible, extend below the sill and well over the sides of the window frame, and a pelmet fitted over the top. This acts to seal the window from the rest of the room and prevent heat loss. Curtains will also keep the hot air outside in summer.

Let the sun shine in.

Open your curtains and blinds on sunny days to let the sun shine on your windows. Even with a chilly wind, the sun will bring wonderful warmth into your home.

And remember to close them when the sun starts to go down. As someone who goes for walks when it’s dark in the early morning and evening, I’m always amazed by how many people have their windows uncovered. You can practically see the heat escaping through the glass. So close them to keep the warmth in and the gaze of the sticky-noses (like me) out 😉.

Cool down at night.

You sleep better when your body can cool down, so turn the heater off at night. It’s also safer to sleep with the heater off. You can remove the chill from your bed using a hot water bottle or an electric blanket. Just remember to turn your electric blanket off before sleeping.

Winter-proof your bed.

There’s nothing like slipping into a deliciously warm bed on a cold night, especially if there’s soft flannelette involved! So swap out your lighter, everyday bedding for heavier winter ones. And add layers – a top sheet (if you don’t already use one) and extra blankets. Finally, if you have floorboards in your bedroom, adding a rug under your bed can prevent draughts from making their way to your bed.

Get active.

When the weather allows, go for a brisk walk outdoors, wearing appropriate clothing, and you’ll warm up in no time. Save on pricey petrol and walk to the shop/school/post office instead of driving.

When you’re at home, exercise indoors using an online program, a DVD or an app. Play with the kids. Clean the house. Do anything that gets you moving, and you’ll feel warmer than if you sit in one place for hours.

However, if you’re having a flare or experiencing a lot of pain, be as active as you can within your limits. And use your heat packs to help relieve muscular pain.

Shorten your showers (if you can).

Many of us use our shower to warm up sore joints and muscles so we can get moving. However, hot water uses a lot of energy; even a few extra minutes will add to your bill. If you can, shorten the time you spend in the shower. Aim for four minutes or less. You can use a timer or sing your favourite song. Hunter Water has a great playlist of four-minute(ish) songs to get you inspired.

Give your heater some space.

Anything that blocks a heater will prevent the warm air from flowing around the room uninterrupted. So move clotheshorses and other obstructions away from the heat source.

Hot air rises, so if you have ceiling fans, flick the reverse or winter mode switch and turn the fan on low. This will pull the cooler air towards the ceiling and push the warmer air down to you.

And to stay safe, fire authorities say you should keep clothing and other fabrics at least one metre from your heater. Never place them on heaters.

Snuggle up.

Get comfy on the couch with your partner, kids, and pets. Grab a warm blanket or doona, share your body heat, and enjoy being together.

Use heat packs and hot water bottles.

If you’re feeling stiff and sore, heat packs or hot water bottles can provide temporary pain relief and help you get moving. But you need to be careful when using them.

If you’re using a heat pack or wheat bag, let it cool completely before you reheat it. Don’t sleep with your wheat bag or smother it behind you in your chair or bed. This can cause it to overheat and catch fire. Always carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions and never overheat them in the microwave.

If you’re using a hot water bottle, use hot water from the tap, not boiling water. Wrap it in a cloth or use a cover so it doesn’t come into contact with your skin.

Always examine your hot water bottles and heat packs before use, and toss them out if you notice signs of wear or damage. And always check their temperature before use to ensure they’re not too hot.

Warm up from the inside out.

Many delicious winter recipes bring comfort and warmth on the most miserable days. So crack open the cookbooks and get cooking! Or go online for inspiration for yummy, warming curries, soups and stews. We’ve got some great recipes to get you started! Can’t be bothered cooking? Simple. Grab a cup of hot chocolate, tea or coffee. It’ll warm your insides and your hands. Perfect! ☕🍵

Choose energy-efficient heaters and hot water systems.

If you’re in the market for a new heater or hot water system, make sure you’re buying one that’s energy-efficient and best suits your needs. Read Canstar’s guide to energy-efficient heaters and Choice’s article on buying the best hot water system for more info.

Insulate.

Insulation keeps your home warm in winter and cool in summer by preventing heat from escaping or entering your home. This keeps your home at a more consistent temperature and reduces the need to crank up your heating or cooling.

If your home isn’t properly insulated, this is something you can do that’ll have long-term benefits. There’s a substantial upfront cost, but it may be an option for some households. Find out more about insulation, including the different types available and how to install it, from the Australian Government’s website, Your home.

Billing and payment help.

If you’re struggling to pay your energy bills, Energy.gov.au also has some information about support for Australian households, including info on potential rebates that may be available.

We’ve also put together lots of info to help you if you’re struggling with financial stress.

Contact our free Helpline

Call our nurses if you have questions about managing your pain, musculoskeletal condition, treatment options, mental health issues, telehealth, or accessing services. They’re available Monday to Thursda between 9am-5pm on 1800 263 265; email (helpline@muscha.org) or via Messenger.

More to explore

5 simple ideas to save energy
Energy.gov.au
6 easy and efficient ways to keep your house warm this winter
Choice
Five ways to reduce your household energy use
Choice
Heated products are known for causing serious injuries. Here’s how to keep safe and warm this winter
ABC
How to keep warm without cranking the heater
RACV
Reduce your energy bills
Energy.gov.au
Ten tips for a warm house
Environment Victoria
Winter health hazards at home
Healthdirect

Lisa Bywaters

24/Apr/2024

Did you know that back pain is the leading cause of disability in the world? (1) In 2017-2018, 1 in 6 Aussies reported having back pain – that’s almost 4 million people.(2) And these stats don’t take into account people who have back pain caused by conditions such as osteoporosis.

With so many people affected by back pain, it’s likely that you’ve experienced back pain or you know someone who lives with back pain. Or both.

So it’s crazy to think that people with back pain are still having to deal with disbelief or suspicion about the reality or extent of their pain and the impact it has on their lives.

We saw this reflected in the responses we received to our 2023 national survey from people with back pain.

Why is this? Why is there so much stigma attached to back pain and back injuries?

Well, for one thing, like most musculoskeletal conditions, back pain is invisible. And it can seem to come and go for no particular reason. For someone who’s never experienced back pain, it may seem like a convenient excuse to get out of work or to receive sympathy. This is untrue and unfair.

It’s time to shine a light on the very real issue of back pain.

How your back works

To understand back pain, it helps to have a basic understanding of the structure of your back. It’s an amazing feat of engineering that provides support for your whole body.

The spine is made up of bones (vertebrae) stacked together to form a loose ‘S’-shaped column.

Each vertebra is cushioned by spongy tissue called intervertebral discs. They act as shock absorbers and give your spine its flexibility. Pairs of small joints (facet joints) connect vertebrae to one another. Ligaments, tendons and muscles, provide further support to your spine and help protect it from injury.

Your spinal cord runs through the centre of the vertebral column and connects your brain to the rest of your body.

Why do people get back pain?

The cause of back pain is not always clear. The good news is that most people with back pain don’t have any significant damage to their spine. The pain comes from the muscles, ligaments and joints.

Causes of back pain include:

non-specific back pain – this is the most common type of back pain. It has no ‘specific’ cause, such as a disease or infection.
arthritis – osteoarthritis and ankylosing spondylitis are two types of arthritis linked to back pain.
osteoporosis – is a condition where bones lose density and strength. Vertebrae can become so porous and brittle that they break easily, causing pain.
stress – a side effect of stress is increased muscle tension. This can lead to fatigue, stiffness and pain.
sciatica – is a painful condition that develops when the nerve that runs from the lower back into the leg is compressed or squeezed.
lifestyle factors – such as lack of exercise, obesity, lack of sleep and smoking can cause back pain.
accidents – including car accidents, workplace injuries, falls, sports injuries – can damage your back, leading to back pain, which may be acute (only lasting for a short time) or chronic (lasting for more than three months).

Diagnosing back pain

Because most people with back pain have no underlying condition or damage to their back, diagnosing will involve lots of talking with your doctor. Together you’ll discuss your back pain, including potential causes or triggers, if you’ve had back pain before, things that make your pain worse, things that make it better. Your doctor will then check out your back to see if there are any obvious causes or issues.

Your doctor may also refer you for some tests, especially if they think there may be a more serious cause for your back pain.

However, imaging (e.g. x-rays, CT or MRI scans) isn’t useful or recommended in most cases of back pain. Scans may seem like a reassuring thing to do so we can rule out anything scary. But unnecessary tests can be expensive, and some involve exposure to radiation that should be avoided unless absolutely essential.

A thorough examination by your doctor will decide whether more investigations are appropriate or helpful in developing a treatment plan that’s right for you.

It‘s also important to know that many investigations show ‘changes’ to your spine that are likely to represent the normal passage of time, not damage to your spine.

For more information about questions to ask your doctor before you get any test, treatment or procedure, visit the Choosing Wisely Australia website.

Managing back pain

Most cases of back pain get better on their own, and you won’t need to see a doctor. The following tips may help relieve your symptoms and speed up your recovery.

Understand your back pain. What makes it better, what makes it worse? Knowing as much as possible about your condition means that you can make informed decisions about your healthcare and play an active role in managing your condition. And remember, the good news is that most back pain isn’t caused by anything serious. It’s painful, but it will get better.
Rest your back (temporarily). Avoid strenuous activity but where possible, continue light activity (e.g. walking). Bed rest for more than a day or two isn’t helpful and will worsen your back pain.
Get back to your normal activities. Try to be as active as possible and get on with your day-to-day life, including work and exercise. If you’re returning to heavy manual jobs, this may take longer.
Move. Don’t stand or sit in the same position for too long. Get up and stretch, go for a walk, move about. There’s a reason physios say ‘motion is lotion’. Moving keeps your joints and soft tissues more flexible and less painful.
Learn ways to manage pain. There are so many strategies you can use to deal with your pain. Knowing what works best for you is essential when living with back pain. Read our A-Z guide to managing pain for tips and techniques you can use to relieve your pain. And check out the More to Explore section below for links to great videos on managing pain using your brain.
Try to manage emotions such as stress, anxiety and frustration. While it’s completely natural to feel these things when you’re in pain, they can actually make your pain worse. That’s because pain involves your perceptions, feelings and thoughts. The worse you think your pain will be, the worse it feels. This can become a vicious cycle. Talking with a family member or a close friend, or a health professional about how you’re feeling means you can start dealing with these feelings and break this cycle. Strategies such as breathing exercises, meditation, massage, heat, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and gentle activity like tai chi may also help you keep your stress and anxiety under control.
Apply heat and cold therapy. Hot and cold packs applied to the area of pain may help relieve pain temporarily. Make sure you protect your skin from the heat or cold (e.g. wrap your ice pack in a tea towel). Only leave on the affected area for a maximum of 10 to 15 minutes then allow the skin temperature to return to normal before reapplying as needed. The Australian Clinical Care Standard for low back pain recommends using heat wraps as a first-line approach alongside other treatments, such as regular physical activity, to relieve back pain.
Eat a healthy diet and manage your weight.
Get a good night’s sleep. Not getting enough good quality sleep can have an impact on your back pain. Read this article by The Sleep Foundation to find out ways you can sleep better with back pain.
Quit smoking.
Medications may help in the short term to get your back pain under control. Your doctor may prescribe a short course for you, or you may purchase some meds and/or liniments over-the-counter. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist for more info.
Seek advice. If you’re concerned your back pain isn’t improving, make an appointment to discuss it with your doctor so you can develop a plan tailored to meeting your specific needs and goals.

What about surgery?

In most cases, the evidence doesn’t support the use of surgery to treat chronic back pain. Most people can manage their back pain with education, exercise and making lifestyle changes.

If your doctor suggests back surgery as an option, ask questions so you can make an informed choice. Choosing Wisely Australia has 5 questions to ask your doctor or healthcare provider to help you get started.

Final words

Back pain is a significant issue for so many Australians. But the good news is that it’s rarely caused by anything serious. And there are lots of things you can do to manage it, so you can get on with living your best life.

Contact our free Helpline

If you have questions about managing your pain, your musculoskeletal condition, treatment options, mental health issues, COVID-19, telehealth, or accessing services be sure to call our nurses. They’re available Monday to Thursday between 9am-5pm on 1800 263 265 or email (helpline@muscha.org) or via Messenger.

More to explore

Watch our videos on pain, your brain and how you can retrain your pain system.
- Making sense of disabling back pain – Prof Peter O’Sullivan
- Pain, the brain and your amazing protectometer – Lorimer Moseley
- Treating pain using the brain – David Butler
15 things you didn’t know about back pain
Irish Independent, 2015
Back problems
Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2020
How to sleep with lower back pain
Sleep Foundation, 2020
Low back pain
painHEALTH, updated 2020
OrthoInfo – American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons
A series of consumer articles and videos on various topics and conditions to do with the back. Simply select ‘Body part’ then ‘Back’ under ‘By ‘Category’ in the filter on the left side.
What should I know about back pain?
Versus Arthritis

References

(1) Musculoskeletal conditions
World Health Organization, 2021
(2) Back problems
Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2020

Lisa Bywaters

08/Apr/2024

Are you like me and find supermarkets ridiculously cold? It doesn’t matter what season it is outside; inside a supermarket, it’s Arendelle, and Elsa has just turned everything into snow and ice ❄⛄.

This can be really uncomfortable, especially if you have a musculoskeletal condition. And if you have Raynaud’s phenomenon, it can make your extremities – especially your fingers – turn white and numb.

What is Raynaud’s phenomenon?

Apart from having a really cool name – it’s a phenomenon, for goodness sake! 🙃 – what is Raynaud’s??? First, it’s named after the French doctor who originally described it, Maurice Raynaud, and being French, it’s pronounced ‘ray-nose’ (with a silent D).

Raynaud’s phenomenon causes the blood vessels to the extremities, usually the fingers and toes, to constrict more than usual in response to cold temperatures or stress. When this happens, the blood flow is restricted, causing the extremities to become cold and turn white, then blue. When blood flow returns, the skin becomes red and returns to its normal colour.

Raynaud’s phenomenon can occur on its own – this is primary Raynaud’s phenomenon. Or it can occur alongside or ‘secondary’ to another disease or condition – this is secondary Raynaud’s phenomenon.

Both primary and secondary Raynaud’s phenomenon episodes can last from a few minutes to hours.

Other parts of your body, such as the nose, lips and ears, can be affected too.

Fortunately, Raynaud’s phenomenon rarely causes permanent damage.

Maintaining a balance: vasoconstriction and vasodilation

Your body protects your internal organs (your core) by maintaining a stable core temperature – it’s not too hot, not too cold, but just right 🐻🐻🐻.

One of the many ways your body maintains this stable temperature is through vasoconstriction and vasodilation. This essentially means that your blood vessels (vaso) narrow (constrict) or widen (dilate) as needed.

In the cold, blood vessels constrict to reduce blood flow to your extremities, such as the fingers and toes. This keeps your core warm. In the heat, blood vessels dilate, and blood flow increases to your skin, moving the warm blood away from your core.

These processes help your core remain at a constant temperature, usually around 36-37°C.

For people with Raynaud’s phenomenon, for some unknown reason, blood vessels constrict, not to keep your core temperature stable but in response to cold, stress or emotional upset.

Blood vessels in your extremities narrow quickly, and your skin changes colour due to a lack of blood supply. During a Raynaud’s episode or attack, you may experience pins and needles, tingling and/or numbness in your fingers or toes. You might find it difficult to do things with your hands, as lack of blood can make them clumsy and stiff. And when the blood returns to the area, you may feel slight discomfort or stinging pain.

These changes occur in the extremities, most often the fingers. Circulation in the rest of the body is generally normal.

Primary Raynaud’s phenomenon

This is the most common form of Raynaud’s phenomenon. It’s also called Raynaud’s disease. Women, generally under 30, are more likely to develop primary Raynaud’s phenomenon than men. It can also run in families, so if you have a family member with primary Raynaud’s, you’re more at risk of developing it.

Secondary Raynaud’s phenomenon

People living with conditions such as scleroderma, systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus) and rheumatoid arthritis may develop secondary Raynaud’s phenomenon. This usually occurs later in life but can happen at any age, depending on the underlying cause.

Other risk factors for secondary Raynaud’s phenomenon include:

mechanical vibration – for example, using a power tool for extended periods
medicines – e.g. beta-blockers, some migraine or cancer drugs, amphetamines
smoking.

Diagnosing Raynaud’s phenomenon

Your doctor can determine if you have Raynaud’s by talking with you about your symptoms. It can be helpful to take a photo of your hands if you experience a Raynaud’s episode so you can show this to your doctor.

Although it’s generally not too difficult to diagnose Raynaud’s phenomenon, it can sometimes be hard to tell whether it’s primary or secondary Raynaud’s. Your doctor may use a range of methods to work this out, such as:

taking a complete medical history, including asking about family members who may have Raynaud’s phenomenon
a physical examination
blood tests
examining fingernail tissue with a microscope.

Living with Raynaud’s phenomenon

Most people with Raynaud’s phenomenon can manage it effectively with self-care and lifestyle changes. In some cases, medicines may be necessary.

Self-care

To prevent a Raynaud’s episode, the best thing you can do is to keep your body and extremities warm. Dress appropriately for the cold with gloves, thick socks and warm layers. It can be helpful to keep a spare pair of gloves or hand warmers in your car or bag that you can use if you’re caught out in a cold or stressful situation (e.g. a trip to the supermarket! 😱).

If you’re outside and your extremities start feeling cold and numb, go indoors and soak your fingers or toes in warm (not hot) water. Or you can warm them with a heater. Just be very careful of the heat – it’s easy to burn yourself when your skin is numb.

If you can’t go indoors, try these things to increase the circulation to your extremities:

Wiggle your fingers or toes.
Rub your hands together.
Make circles with your arms.
Massage your hands or feet.
Place your hands in your armpits. However, if you’re like me, your armpits aren’t always warm enough, and you may need to ‘borrow’ someone else’s warmth! Make sure it’s someone you’re close with – random strangers won’t appreciate your ice-cold fingers in their armpits! 😂
If a stressful situation triggers the attack, remove yourself from the situation, take some deep breaths and try to relax.

Medical care

Talk with your doctor if your Raynaud’s isn’t controlled by these simple measures. You may need to use medicines that widen your blood vessels and improve circulation.

For secondary Raynaud’s phenomenon, it’s also essential that the underlying condition (e.g. lupus) is treated effectively.

Tips for avoiding triggers

There’s no cure for Raynaud’s phenomenon, so avoiding things that trigger a Raynaud’s episode is key.

Avoid being out in the cold for long periods, especially if you’re not dressed warmly.
Make sure your whole body is kept warm, using several layers of clothing to trap body heat.
Keep your extremities warm with gloves, woollen socks, earmuffs and/or a beanie.
Use hand warmers. These small, often disposable products produce heat on demand and are helpful when gloves aren’t enough; you can buy them from supermarkets and chemists.
Remember, hand sanitisers often have a cooling effect, so when using them, be prepared to warm your hands quickly.
Avoid smoking cigarettes or drinking caffeinated drinks as nicotine and caffeine constrict blood vessels.
Review your medicines with your doctor; if they’re causing the problem, discuss possible alternatives.
Be aware that holding something cold, such as a can of drink, can trigger symptoms.
Learn to recognise and avoid stressful situations.
Keep a journal of when episodes or attacks happen, as this may help identify triggers.
Look after the skin on your hands and feet – with our frequent hand washing and use of hand sanitiser, it’s easy for our hands to become dry and cracked. Cracked skin is an opening for germs to get in and potentially cause an infection.
Exercise regularly to maintain blood flow and skin condition. Being active also has many other health benefits.

Complications

For most people, Raynaud’s phenomenon is uncomfortable and a nuisance but is basically harmless, with no lasting effects. However, in rare cases, loss of blood flow can permanently damage the tissue. This may lead to skin ulceration, tissue loss and scarring.

Talk with your doctor if you notice any changes in your symptoms.

Contact our free national Help Line

Call our nurses if you have questions about managing your pain, musculoskeletal condition, treatment options, mental health issues, COVID-19, telehealth, or accessing services. They’re available Monday to Thursday between 9am-5pm (excluding public holidays) on 1800 263 265; email helpline@msk.org.au or via Messenger.

More to explore

Patient education: Raynaud phenomenon (Beyond the Basics)
UpToDate
Put your hands together and applaud … your hands!
Musculoskeletal Australia
Raynaud phenomenon
Australasian College of Dermatologists
Raynaud’s disease
Mayo Clinic
Raynaud’s phenomenon
American College of Rheumatology
Raynaud’s phenomenon
Cleveland Clinic
Raynaud’s phenomenon
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
Raynaud’s phenomenon
Versus Arthritis

Karla Wignall

08/Apr/2024

It’s all in the hands!

Hands…they tend to be two things we take for granted. They really do an awful lot for us. But what happens when using our hands is painful or difficult?

Hand osteoarthritis – signs and symptoms

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis. It commonly affects the hands, fingers, base of the thumb and the wrist. OA causes the cartilage on the ends of your bones to become thin and rough. When this happens, bones don’t move as smoothly as they should causing pain and stiffness. OA of the hand most commonly affects women over the age of 50.

For more detailed information click here.

What are the hand signals?

As mentioned, pain and stiffness can be the first sign. You may also notice changes in the shape and structure of the joints in your hand. Some people will develop firm, knobby swellings on the finger joints which means the bones are trying to repair themselves but as a result there is excess bone developing.

Thumbs up – what to do

Unfortunately, there is no cure for osteoarthritis of the hand. So, the focus is on relief of symptoms and trying to avoid excess strain on your hand joints. As we all know, doing something that we know is going to be painful usually means we avoid it, but it is really important to exercise these joints. Other things we can do include using pacing strategies and avoiding lifting or carrying heavy weights.

A hand therapist can help with this as well as advice on aids and other strategies.

Latest updates

A new study using an existing drug called methotrexate for the treatment of osteoarthritis of the hand with synovitis (inflammation of the lining of the joint) is showing some promising results especially with improvements in pain. The study looked at the safety as well as the benefits of a 6-month course of methotrexate. 97 participants were randomly given 20mg of methotrexate once a week as compared to placebo. The methotrexate group had a moderate but clinically significant reduction in pain providing important evidence that it could have a role in treating this condition. This is a small study, and further trials are needed to see if the benefits continue after 6 months as well as how long treatment is needed. But it is a promising start!

As with all medications, and as part of discussions with your health care team, you will need to weigh up any possible side effects of methotrexate.

The lead researcher of the study, Prof Cicuttini, is planning an extension trial and hopefully answer these and other questions like can it prevent joint damage which is often quite severe in post-menopausal women with OA of the hand with inflammation.

So…grab life by the hands

Whilst OA hand is very painful there are things that can help.

putting less strain on the joints
implementing simple strategies like pacing and
using practical and well researched aids to provide support and assistance can help.

Making sure you are up to date with the latest information, support and research (through MHA of course) is essential. As well as working with your health care team about options including the use of medications like methotrexate to provide relief.

Also, make sure you register for MHA’s upcoming webinar Understanding and managing thumb arthritis on 23rd April at 7 pm. Click here to register

References

https://versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/conditions/osteoarthritis-of-the-hand-and-wrist/

https://ard.bmj.com/content/78/1/16

A well-established drug can improve hand osteoarthritis symptoms: study – Monash University

Contact our free national Help Line

Call our nurses if you have questions about managing your pain, musculoskeletal condition, treatment options, mental health issues, telehealth, or accessing services. They’re available Monday to Thursday between 9am-5pm (excluding public holidays) on 1800 263 265, email helpline@msk.org.au or via Messenger.

Lisa Bywaters

15/Feb/2024

Living with a chronic musculoskeletal condition costs us physically, mentally and emotionally. But what many people don’t understand are the substantial financial costs associated with having chronic conditions. They’re expensive.

Healthcare costs

These are the most obvious. Medications, lots of trips to your doctor, your specialist/s, allied health professionals, tests, exercise classes, surgery, orthotics….they all add up. A lot!

People who don’t have a chronic condition may assume that a lot of this is covered by government subsidies, GP Management Plans, health insurance, the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, with a little sprinkling of magical fairy dust to cover the rest. Depending on a person’s situation some of this may be covered. But much isn’t.

There’s significant cost in seeing allied health professionals such as physiotherapists, podiatrists, occupational therapists, hand therapists, dietitians and psychologists. While GP Management Plans assist with the cost, there’s mostly only five visits provided and these are used up very quickly. There may also be a gap payment over the Medicare Rebate. And there are also often considerable out of pocket expenses to see a specialist privately or longer waits when you see them publicly.

This can put a significant strain on a person’s finances.

Employment

Living with a chronic musculoskeletal condition is varied and episodic. That means you often don’t know how you’ll wake up. Your pain and stiffness may have been under control and manageable for some time, but then one day you wake up feeling crap. Your joints are swollen, it hurts to move, and you’re soooo exhausted. This makes it difficult to get up and move around, let alone get to work and put in a full day, as well as all the other things you have going on – family, friends, studying, chores, and a social life.

This may lead to time off work, and using up all your sick and personal leave. But if the situation (or workplace) becomes unmanageable it may result in someone having to permanently reduce their hours, change jobs, become unemployed or retire early.

Any of these things will obviously affect your everyday finances. However it can also affect your future finances as superannuation is impacted by reduced or lost income.

Wow. This became really depressing really quickly.

The good news is there are services to help you if you need to change careers, or need financial assistance while you re-evaluate what you can or can’t do. We’ve added a bunch of these to the More to Explore section below.

And while we know none of these services are perfect, they can provide you with many of the tools and resources to help you through this tough time.

Hidden costs

Lost employment and medical costs – check. They’re probably the most visible costs. But there are many hidden costs. We’ve listed just a few.

Home and car modifications – so that you can continue to do the things you want and need to do as easily and pain-free as possible you may need to make changes to your home and/or car. They may be simple and relatively inexpensive – e.g. adding a swivel seat to your car to help you get in and out, or more complicated and pricey – e.g. installing a chair lift to help you get up and down the stairs in your home. An occupational therapist can help you work out what modifications will assist you, and can also advise you of any available schemes or assistance programs you may be eligible for.
As well as changes to your home or car, you may also need to buy various gizmos and gadgets that: protect your joints (e.g. tap turners, pick-up reachers), help you manage your pain (e.g. heat packs) and generally make life a little easier (e.g ergonomic mouse for your computer, walking aids). Again these can range in price.
Getting out and about if you’re in pain, or dealing with serious brain fog, can be tricky if you don’t feel up to driving. It was only made worse with the COVID pandemic, when many of us felt vulnerable catching public transport. So you may have resorted to catching a taxi or using a rideshare company. But over time this does add up. You may be eligible for a taxi subsidy – each state/territory has their own scheme – so it’s worth checking to see if you can access this.
Food, glorious food. Let’s face it there are many times you feel flattened by your condition and cooking is the last thing you want to do. And now with the convenience of delivery apps, you can get almost anything delivered to your door. Unless like me you live in an outer suburb in which case it’s fish n’ chips, pizza or burgers – yum, but not the healthiest options. These deliveries can be a lifesaver, but the cost can also very quickly add up.
Events and holidays. This’s a tough one. Because of the nature of chronic conditions and often not knowing how you’ll feel from day to day, you can pay for future events and then have to cancel or change at the last minute. Like tickets to a concert – you often buy them so far in advance and you’re excited for literally months! And then the night comes and you know you can’t go – you’re too tired, too sore, too whatever. So you have to forfeit your ticket, or give it away to a friend. Or you’re on holiday, but you end up having to pay to make changes because you’ve had a flare and you need an earlier flight home, or you need to catch more taxis than you’d planned to, or you need to buy a pillow because the one at your hotel is a rock. It’s the crazy, unpredictable stuff like this that’s hard to plan for and adds to financial stress.

Contact our free national Help Line

If you have questions about your musculoskeletal condition, treatment options, telehealth, managing your pain or accessing services be sure to call our nurses. They’re available Monday to Thursday between 9am-5pm on 1800 263 265; email (helpline@msk.org.au) or via Messenger.

More to explore

Access for People with Disability
Australian Government, JobAccess
This site helps people with disability find and keep jobs, get promoted to better jobs, upgrade or expand their workplace skills, and more.
Best practice guide: The right to request flexible working arrangements
FairWork Ombudsman
Career Transition Assistance
Australian Government, jobactive
Designed to help mature-age job seekers to build their confidence and skills to become more competitive in their local labour market.
Centrelink Entitlements
Chronic Illness Alliance
Eight tips for looking after your mental health through unemployment
Beyond Blue
Employment Assistance Fund
Australian Government, JobAccess
Government Assistance
Pain Australia
Job in Jeopardy Assistance
Australian Government, Services Australia
Making the right financial moves during the COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak
Choice, 7 April 2020
Payments for people living with an illness, injury or disability
Australian Government, Services Australia
Types of care
Australian Government, My Aged Care
This is a federal government scheme for older Australians needing assistance to live independently in their own homes. You can get assistance with everyday tasks and home modifications.
Your guide to Australian careers
Australian Government, Job Outlook
This site helps you make decisions about study and training, your first job, or the next step in your career. Includes physical and other demands of jobs.

Lisa Bywaters

15/Feb/2024

Hands up if you wake up some days and the thought of getting out of bed, let alone dressed, seems impossible?

Painful muscles and joints, fatigue, difficulty with buttons and zippers, not being able to reach behind your back or over your head, sensitive skin and continence issues can make getting dressed a challenge. However, because staying in your pajamas all day is rarely an option 😣, you need some practical strategies to take the stress out of getting ready for the day.

So how can you tackle getting dressed so that you feel comfortable and put together, even if you’re in pain and exhausted?

Make a plan

I know it’s not particularly glamorous or cool, but planning can be your best friend when you live with a chronic condition that can be so unpredictable.

Decide what clothes and accessories you want to wear the night before. Or be a super-planner and do this on the weekend, for the week ahead. Take into account your activities and the weather. Then have them arranged in your cupboard so you can simply reach for the items you need for the day.

Choose your clothes carefully

When buying new clothes, choose those with quality fabrics that are soft and stretchy.

Loose clothes are perfect on days when you’re in pain, or your skin is sensitive. If twisting or reaching behind you is difficult, buy clothes that fasten at the front or side. Or ones that have no fastenings at all.

Avoid clothes that require ironing if you can…unless you find ironing relaxing (I know that person 😉). But seriously, who can be bothered ironing when you’re already tired? For clothes that do crease in the wash, hang them up on a hanger as soon as you take them out of the wash so that most of the wrinkles drop out. You can also hang them in your bathroom while you shower so that the steam removes any stubborn wrinkles.

Buy clothes that you can dress up and dress down as the occasion warrants. For example, plain black t-shirts can be as casual as you want for hanging out at home with a pair of leggings/loose jeans and sneakers. But by simply adding a light jacket, some accessories, and changing your shoes to low wedges/loafers, you’re ready for lunch with friends. No muss, no fuss.

Add layers. Many people with chronic pain are sensitive to fluctuations in temperature. Because you can rarely control the temperature of the places you visit, layering your clothes can be a lifesaver. You can remove/add layers as needed.

Use dressing aids. If you have difficulties with fastenings (e.g. zippers, buttons, shoelaces) or putting clothes over your head or shoes on your feet, there are gadgets to make life easier. They include zipper hooks, dressing sticks, buttonhooks, shoehorns, elastic shoelaces, and so much more. Check out our online store for some of these items. An occupational therapist can also give you tips for getting dressed as well as other available aids that are available to help you.

Have a go-to outfit that makes you happy. We all need a pick-me-up now and again, and often what we wear can do that. Have a favourite outfit or two ready to go for when you need a boost or some extra confidence to face the world 😍.

Don’t forget your accessories

Shoes: When buying new shoes, make sure they fit your foot properly, including any bunions, hammertoes and other structural changes to your foot. Choose shoes with a good, supportive sole, and decent grip to avoid slips and trips. Avoid wearing high heels or very flat shoes every day. If you wear orthotics, ensure they’ll fit in your new shoes. And if you have painful feet and you’re having trouble managing, talk with a podiatrist. They can give you information to help you look after your feet, including advice on your footwear.

Bags and backpacks: We carry a lot of stuff with us every day – phones, purses/wallets, computers, medication, keys, masks, water, hand sanitiser, snacks, work/school gear – so bags and backpacks that can help you cart this around, without aggravating your condition, are a must. Bags with thick straps that spread the weight across a wider area, rather than bags with thin straps, will cause less pain and strain. Avoid large bags, where the temptation can be to throw everything in them. Instead, choose a bag that suits what you need to carry, and avoid adding anything that isn’t necessary for your outing. Have a couple of bags and backpacks that’ll accommodate what you need to carry, whether it’s a casual outing or work-related, and your outfit. That way, you can mix and match as necessary.

Hats and caps: Don’t forget your head! Hats and caps protect your head and face from the heat and UV rays, as well as the cold bite of winter. Again, have a couple you can choose from to suit your outing and the elements.

Now add bling: I find that even when I’m wearing my most casual, comfy outfit, I can dress it up, and by doing so, feel better, just by adding some earrings, a cool watch or another piece of jewellery. It may sound superficial, but personally, anything that lifts my mood when I’m feeling low or in pain is just as necessary to me as my medication or meditation 😊.

Be a thrifty shopper

Living with a chronic condition can be costly, so saving money where you can is important. Op shops, clothing exchanges and online noticeboards can help you save money when it comes to sourcing new clothes and accessories. I’m an avid op shopper, and I find many unique, good quality and fun items at great prices. I also feel better about recycling clothes rather than buying a cheap item from a chain store that won’t last the season. And don’t forget you can also sell or donate the quality clothes you no longer wear to these networks.

Develop your own style

Throw the season’s fashions out the window! Wear clothes that make you happy, comfortable and project your own personality and style. I’ve said it many times – the world would be incredibly dull if we were all the same. And that goes for what we wear. So embrace your inner fashionista and create a style that’s uniquely you.

“When you don’t dress like everybody else, you don’t have to think like everybody else.” – Iris Apfel

Contact our free national Help Line

If you have questions about managing your pain, your musculoskeletal condition, treatment options, mental health issues, telehealth, or accessing services be sure to call our nurses. They’re available Monday to Thursday between 9am-5pm on 1800 263 265; email (helpline@msk.org.au) or via Messenger.

More to explore

Best shoes for arthritis: 8 rules for buying the right pair (and 3 mistakes to avoid)
Creaky Joints
Getting dressed when you have arthritis: tips on how to make it easier
Versus Arthritis
Getting dressed with rheumatoid arthritis can be hard, but these 7 expert tips may help
Creaky Joints
How to take the stress out of getting dressed
Arthur’s Place
Why the rise of workleisure benefits the chronic pain community
Verywell Health

Lisa Bywaters

23/Jan/2024

Lisa Bywaters

23/Jan/2024

We’re a country that loves a drink. Wine with dinner, beer at the footy, cocktails at the local bar with friends.

But what if your drinking is getting a little out of hand? What if you’re having too much of a good thing??

It may be time to take a break while you assess your relationship with booze.

What’s a safe amount of alcohol to drink?

The Australian Alcohol Guidelines recommend that ‘to reduce the risk of harm from alcohol-related disease or injury, healthy men and women should drink no more than 10 standard drinks a week and no more than 4 standard drinks on any one day. The less you drink, the lower your risk of harm from alcohol’.

The guidelines also recommend that children under 18 and pregnant or breastfeeding women don’t drink alcohol.

It’s important to note that consuming alcohol within the recommendations of these guidelines will reduce your risk, but there’s still a risk. Read the government’s info ‘How much alcohol is safe to drink’ to find out more.

How does alcohol affect your health?

There are many ways that regular alcohol consumption can negatively affect your health.

It can interact with your meds – including commonly used medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (e.g. ibuprofen) and disease-modifying drugs (e.g. methotrexate), causing problems such as ulcers, bleeding in the stomach and liver damage. Be aware of the risks, and always read the labels and consumer medicine information for all your medications about side effects and interactions. Talk with your doctor/pharmacist for more information about alcohol and your musculoskeletal or pain meds, as well as any other medications you take.

It increases the risk of a gout attack. If you have gout, drinking too much alcohol, especially beer, can increase your risk of a painful attack.

It affects your sleep. Getting sufficient quality sleep is vital for our overall health and wellbeing. However, people with musculoskeletal conditions often struggle with sleep issues – getting to sleep, staying asleep and feeling fatigued when they wake up. So while the idea of a nightcap to help you wind down and relax in the evening may sound like a good idea, alcohol will actually affect the quality of your sleep. Even if you sleep through the night, you’ll likely wake up feeling unrefreshed and foggy. To find out more about the relationship between alcohol and sleep, read this article from the Sleep Foundation.

It increases your risk of developing cancers and other serious diseases – this includes heart disease, cirrhosis (or scarring) of the liver, diabetes, mental health issues, stroke and high blood pressure. For more info, read ‘What are the effects of alcohol’.

It increases your risk of getting injured. If you’ve been drinking, especially if you’ve become tipsy or drunk, you’re more likely to injure yourself. When you become drunk, you lose your balance and coordination, increasing the risk of falling. You’re also more likely to engage in risky behaviours, such as driving, putting yourself and others at risk.

It can affect your mental health. Many people often turn to alcohol to relax after a stressful day or if they’re feeling a bit down. And it may provide a very temporary boost to their mood, but it doesn’t last. In the long run, drinking can contribute to feelings of depression and anxiety. It can also make it harder to deal with stress.

Benefits of putting a pause on the plonk

Whether you decide to reduce your alcohol intake, have a few alcohol-free days each week, or go without alcohol for a month or longer, you’ll immediately see some benefits. These benefits will be greater the longer you go without alcohol but will include:

Weight loss. If you’ve been struggling to lose weight, cutting your alcohol intake will definitely help. Alcohol is high in kilojoules, which provide no nutritional value. It can also make you feel hungry and may lead to choosing unhealthy foods to fill the hunger (hello 2am greasy kebabs smothered in garlic sauce ?).

Improved sleep. As mentioned earlier, alcohol interferes with the quality of your sleep.

No hangover. A pounding head and nausea are the price we pay for a night of overindulgence. As are the recriminations and the ‘never agains’ ?. Reducing/stopping your alcohol intake will take care of this. And just think of all the things you can enjoy on a Sunday morning without the morning after hangover!

You’ll save money. On the nights out at the pub/bar (wow, cocktails, cha-ching), on the cab/Uber ride home, or on the alcohol you buy to drink at home. It all adds up – to stacks of cash! Use the money you’d typically spend on grog and treat yourself to something special – like a massage, a new outfit or gold class movie tickets.

More meaningful time with family and friends. It’s amazing what you learn about each other when you take the time to listen and interact without alcohol getting in the way. Try doing different things together instead of sitting around drinking or hitting the pub – for example, going for a walk in the local park or bushlands, having a gaming marathon or making yummy mocktails.

Better performance at work. Waking up with a hangover or sleeping poorly because you’ve been drinking affects your ability to perform at your best at work.

Tips to help you reduce the hooch

Make a plan. Once you’ve decided you’re going to reduce the amount of alcohol you drink (or stop drinking entirely), you need a plan of attack. It can be tough going, especially if drinking has become a habit or an addiction.

Consider the following questions, and write down your answers. Put them somewhere prominent so you can refer to them when you need support or encouragement.

Why do you want to reduce or quit alcohol?
Is it for health reasons? The impact it’s having on your personal relationships or work? Why is it important to you that you reduce or stop?
What are your limits?
Are you quitting alcohol entirely or reducing the amount you drink? Choose a limit for how much you’ll drink, but make sure it’s within the safe drinking guidelines. And include some alcohol-free days each week.
What are your triggers?
Why do you drink? And when? Do you always have a glass of wine while preparing dinner? Or have beers with your mates when you knock off work? Do you drink to help manage your anxiety? Or your pain? What makes you pour a drink or head to the pub?
What are your strategies to deal with these triggers?
For example, if you always drink a glass of wine while preparing dinner, swap it for herbal tea or soda water with a slice of lime or lemon. If you always drink with mates after work, let them know you’re trying to reduce or quit drinking, and stick to non-alcoholic drinks, or suggest you all do something else together. If you drink to deal with anxiety or pain, it’s essential to know that alcohol can actually make it more difficult to manage anxiety and can make your pain worse, so finding healthier ways to manage your pain or anxiety will be better for you in the long run.
Who’ll support you?
It can be challenging to quit or reduce alcohol alone. Tell your family and friends what you’re doing. They can encourage you and may even join you. Talk with your doctor and get information and advice to help you achieve your goal. If you’ve been using alcohol to manage your pain, discuss alternative pain management strategies. The same goes if you’re drinking to manage anxiety or depression.

Get professional help. Many people can help you if you want to reduce or quit alcohol. Your doctor is a great person to start with as they know you and your health conditions. There are also many support organisations to help you. DrinkWise has a range of resources to give you the facts about drinking and its impacts on you. They also have a comprehensive list of organisations that can help you. Check out their website for details.

Know a standard drink size. It’s very easy to drink too much if you don’t know what a standard drink is – whether it’s beer, wine or spirits. Read the ‘Standard drinks guide‘ to find out about drink sizes and see if you’re drinking standard drinks. The answer may surprise you.

Remove temptations. Don’t have alcohol out in the open, or remove it from your house altogether. If it’s not within easy reach, you’re more likely to stick to your goal.

Drink slowly. Sip your drink and actually enjoy the flavours. Take a break between alcoholic beverages and drink mineral water or a mocktail instead.

Finish your glass before you top it up. It’s hard to keep track of how many drinks you’ve had if it’s topped up before you’ve finished drinking.

Don’t drink on an empty stomach. Alcohol is absorbed into your bloodstream through your stomach and small intestine. Any food in the stomach will slow the rate at which alcohol is absorbed.

Get adventurous with low/no alcohol drinks. There’s such an enormous range available to try now, from wine to beers and mocktails (that are more than just soda water and fruit ?). There’s a big world of delicious low and no alcohol drinks for you to enjoy.

Avoid people who aren’t supportive of your efforts. Sometimes people just don’t get it – the reason you want to give up or reduce your alcohol intake. They may have the ability to derail your goals, so avoid people that don’t support what you’re trying to do.

Give yourself a break. Quitting or reducing alcohol can be difficult. If you stumble and drink more than you’d planned, just brush yourself off and learn from that misstep. Don’t throw your hard work away over one mistake.

Originally written and published by Lisa Bywaters July 2021.

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More to explore

11 ways to curb your drinking
Harvard Health, March 2020
12 tips to reduce your alcohol intake
Cancer Council Australia, July 2020
Alcohol
Alcohol and Drug Foundation
DrinkWise
How can you reduce or quit alcohol?
Australian Government, Department of Health, April 2019

Lisa Bywaters

23/Jan/2024

How to set an achievable goal for 2024

“Life is short, fragile and does not wait for anyone. There will never be a perfect time to pursue your dreams and goals. ” – Unknown.

Did you start 2024 with a goal? Eating more healthfully, quitting smoking, exercising regularly, learning a new skill, changing careers, buying a house?

If so, you’re not alone. Lots of us start a new year with lofty goals, wanting to start fresh. It’s like the first day of school when you’d open a brand new notebook, and it felt so bright and shiny with endless possibilities (aaah, new stationery 😉).

And we start on our path with gusto – we try new recipes, visit the Quit website, pull the walking shoes out of the cupboard. But then life interferes. A tough day at work leads to takeaway for dinner instead of cooking. You’re out with mates, and everyone’s smoking, so you do too. You wake up exhausted and toss your walking shoes back into the cupboard. The enthusiasm for achieving your goal wanes.

So why bother with goals? What’s the point if they can be hard to achieve?

Simply put, having goals gives us control in a world where so much is out of our control. They provide us with something to work towards, and give us the steps we need to get there.

So let’s look at some simple ways you can live your life and still achieve your goals.

First – let’s address the elephant in the room. It starts with ‘C’ and ends in ‘OVID’.

We’re living in a global pandemic, and we’re a little tired. Two years of pandemic fatigue, fear, stress, and worry mean our physical and mental energy levels are lower than they’ve ever been.

These feelings can’t be ignored or pushed aside in order to achieve your goals. They need to be acknowledged and factored into your goal setting.

Make your goals meaningful

When setting a goal, think of something important to you and not something you think you should do. You’re more likely to be successful if you aim to do something that makes you happy and has meaning. And you’ll be more likely to recover from stumbles or overcome obstacles if your goal is significant to you.

Start with small goals

When we set ourselves a goal we often begin with great excitement, but then something – pain, work, illness, family life, pandemic-life – gets in the way. However if we create small goals, we’re putting ourselves in a better position to succeed.

For example, say you want to read more books. Great! There are so many amazing books out there. But having the goal of reading a book a week may not be realistic (been there done that 😆).

A more feasible way to read more books is to read a chapter in the evening. Or read for 15 minutes in the morning. You’re still reading, but it’s a smaller, more realistic goal.

Be flexible

If you’re having difficulties achieving your goal, ask yourself why? If it has meaning for you and it’s realistic, what’s the barrier? If we use the reading example again, it could be that you can’t find the time to sit and read. Or your eyes are tired after staring at a computer screen all day.

A way to solve this problem could be to listen to audio books. You can do this while doing other things, and your tired eyes don’t have to focus on the words. You can access many titles free through your public library, or you can access a subscription service such as Audible.

The point is that if you’re flexible, there are ways you can still achieve your goal if the original plan didn’t work. Discuss it with family or friends if you can’t think of solutions. Talking through the issue can help you gain some clarity. And the support and advice from the people who care for us is invaluable.

Be kind

When working towards a goal, it’s realistic to expect that there’ll be some trips and stumbles along the way. When this happens, be kind to yourself. When things don’t go according to our plans, we can be very critical. So avoid berating yourself. Instead, look at the stumble as a chance to learn. What happened? Why did it happen? How can you avoid it happening again? Does your goal need some adjustment to make it more achievable?

Another thing to remember is that we’re all different. So don’t compare yourself with others. This can be tough when you’re surrounded by carefully curated, touched up and filtered images, stories and posts about people who seem to have it all together, while you feel like a red hot mess (hmm, that may be just me?). But comparing yourself to others won’t help you achieve your goal and can make you feel like you’re failing somehow. So avoid these comparisons, be kind to yourself and give yourself credit for doing your best.

Be SMART

A common acronym used for goal setting is SMART: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Timeframe. It can help you create a goal that works for you and your life.

Be specific. What is it you’re aiming for? Ask yourself the 5 W’s – who, what, when, where, why. What do you want to accomplish? Why? When and where will you do this? Who can help you?

Let’s use meditation as an example to create a SMART goal. You enjoy meditating. It helps you manage your pain and deal with anxiety. So in 12 months, you’d like to be meditating for 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week.

You need to be able to measure your goal so that you know when/if you’ve achieved it. Meditating more often isn’t a measurable goal, but committing to meditating for a specific amount of time in a day is.

Next, your goal needs to be achievable for you. It should challenge you and stretch you a little but still be attainable, especially considering the uncertainties of the world we’re living in.

Planning to meditate for 60 minutes every day probably isn’t achievable, especially if you’re just starting out. But committing to meditate 10 minutes a day, twice a week is. You can increase the amount of time and the number of days you meditate as you progress.

You need to be realistic, and your goal needs to be doable – for you and your own circumstances. Meditating 10 minutes a day, twice a week is realistic because you enjoy it, and it helps you relax. You’ve discussed it with your family, and they understand that they can’t interrupt you during this time. You’ve organised a quiet space to meditate, and you’ve downloaded a meditation app that you like. You’re committed, and you’ve put in place the things you need to make your goal possible. That makes your goal realistic.

Finally, your goal should have a timeframe. In this example, your goal is to meditate for 30 minutes, 5 days a week in 12 months. You’ll be starting at 10 minutes a day, twice a week increasing this over the coming 12 months. A timeframe gives you motivation and an endpoint to work towards.

Sticking to it

Once you’ve decided on your goal, write it down, along with the steps you need to get there. Stick it on your fridge, bathroom mirror or somewhere you’ll see it often. Refer to it regularly. And remember, if you have any hiccups along the way, that’s okay. Just don’t give up. Learn from what happened and move on.

“I hope that in this year to come, you make mistakes. Because if you are making mistakes, then you are making new things, trying new things, learning, living, pushing yourself, changing yourself, changing your world. You’re doing things you’ve never done before, and more importantly, you’re doing something.” —Neil Gaiman.

Originally written and published by Lisa Bywaters 19 January 2022.