HealthInfo Waitaha Canterbury
Mobility action programme for osteoarthritis
Hōtaka kori mo ngā tangata kaikōiwi
Keeping active is one of the best things you can do to manage your osteoarthritis. It also helps with many other health conditions.
But keeping active when you are in pain can be tricky.
The mobility action programme (MAP) is a free 8-week programme. It is for people with osteoarthritis that affects their hip or knee. It has been shown to help people move more easily and be able to do more in their everyday lives.
Mobility action programmes start regularly throughout the year. They are held during the day or evening at various places in Canterbury. Each weekly session lasts 2 hours and includes:
- an interactive education session
- a 5 to 10 minute break
- physical activity – a short theory session followed by a practical session.
A physiotherapist or an exercise professional who is an expert on osteoarthritis runs the physical activity and education sessions.
Te Whatu Ora Waitaha funds MAP so there is no cost for you to attend.
People who cannot or would prefer not to attend the programme in the community can take part in an online mobility action programme using the Zoom video platform.
Online exercise videos are also available.
Physical activity
The MAP team will support you by prescribing exercises that are best for you. This will enable you to increase your physical activity levels.
When you do the exercises, you should wear clothes that are loose and comfortable. You should wear flat-soled shoes that are enclosed and supportive.
At the end of the programme, the team will suggest options for on-going support in maintaining your physical activity levels. This will help you keep up the good work you have started.
Education about managing osteoarthritis
The mobility action programme covers a different topic each week. Topics include:
- pain science and how and why we hurt. Understanding pain can help you have less pain and do more
- medications and complementary treatments to help manage osteoarthritis
- eating well
- wellbeing and mental fitness.
Enrolling in MAP
Ask your general practice team or an allied health professional such as your chiropractor, dietitian, occupational therapist, osteopath, physiotherapist or podiatrist if the mobility action programme is right for you. They can refer you to the MAP coordinator who will contact you to enrol you in a programme.
On the next page: Online mobility action programme for osteoarthritis
Written by HealthInfo clinical advisers. Last reviewed July 2024.
SourcesReview key: HIOST-35589
