A Dundee University student is among those being helped by a new mobile app aimed at helping teenagers and young adults with arthritis through Covid-19 self-isolation.
Melissa Tavendale said she had already felt the benefit of the Arthritis Tracker which provides round-the-clock access to information and advice, helping those affected to rate and record symptoms in seconds and track their pain, medication side effects, fatigue, physical activity, sleep and emotional well-being.
An estimated 2.98 million people under the age of 35 in the UK are living with a musculoskeletal (MSK) condition and the charity Versus Arthritis has launched the app.
Versus Arthritis digital engagement officer, Sophie Mullen said; “Arthritis is too often dismissed as an old person’s disease, but it doesn’t discriminate by age – two thirds of people with arthritis are under 65.
“Technology is helping us bridge the gap to those who were already isolated, and who face more restrictions to their life because of Covid-19.
“Most will never have met other young people their age with the condition, who understand what they’re going through. This app will help us change that.”
Melissa, 19, was recently diagnosed with Seronegative inflammatory arthritis after experiencing painful joints and stiffness for more than a year.
Now living with her parents in the north east during lockdown, she has already had one medical appointment cancelled during the pandemic.
“The app is very easy to use and seems to be working very well. I like the extra info with tips and advice about managing my condition,” she said.
