Northern Michigan Regional Hospital and Harbor Arthritis Center are offering a free, six-week course designed for people with arthritis and related diseases.
Their caregivers are also encouraged to attend.
The two organizations will present the “Arthritis Foundation Self-Help Program” 10 a.m.-noon for six consecutive Wednesdays beginning Feb. 17 at the Community Health Education Center, 360 Connable Ave., located across the parking lot from the main entrance of the hospital.
“The Arthritis Foundation Self-Help Program is a community-based patient education course developed by the Stanford Arthritis Center,” said Judy Fowler, one of the program leaders. “Patients can learn the general principles of managing arthritis and fibromyalgia. Knowledgeable patients practicing self-care may experience improved physical function, less pain and reduced health care costs.”
Susan Boyko, a certified health coach and the other educator teaching the course, has worked with arthritis patients at Harbor Arthritis Center for 10 years. Both instructors are nationally certified through the Arthritis Foundation to conduct the sessions.
The program leaders will cover disease-specific information, stress management strategies, medication use, exercise alternatives and coping techniques. Participants may use The Arthritis Helpbook as a textbook for the course and can purchase one for $20. The course format encourages active participation and includes lectures, discussion and activities.
To register, call Northern Michigan Regional Hospital at (800) 248-6777; space is limited.