Women's Perceptions on Managing Chronic Arthritis

Abstract

The development of self-management strategies is an important aspect of living with chronic arthritis and an intervention to which occupational therapists devote a significant amount of time. Within this context, the evidence base is informed predominantly by research undertaken from a psychological perspective. Sociological approaches to living with chronic illness provide valuable insights into the personal perspectives of living with and managing chronic illness. Located within a sociological perspective and focusing on women with chronic arthritis, this study aimed to gain a greater understanding of the strategies that the women used to maintain activity and the integration of such strategies into their lifestyles. A longitudinal qualitative study using interviews, diaries and focus groups was conducted over a period of 2 years. The interviews and focus groups were recorded, transcribed and analysed to identify key themes and concepts. The diaries were analysed to provide insights into the daily activities of the women. Three interrelated themes were identified: the embodied experience of living with chronic arthritis, the development and use of strategies and the integration of the strategies into the women's evolving personal context. This paper explores these themes and discusses their implications for the development of self-management programmes informed by the experiences of people living with these impairments.