St James’s Hospital and Arthritis Ireland launch app for RA patients

Supported by Pfizer Healthcare Ireland, the RAISE app is one of the first of its kind for people with RA and arthritis conditions. Users of the app can learn techniques from simple video exercises and record activity progress to share with their doctor during consultations.

In Ireland, over 915,000 people including 1,100 children are living with arthritis, making it the single biggest cause of disability. Furthermore, 40,000 people in Ireland are living with RA and 70 per cent are women.

The RAISE app, available for free on both iOS and Android platforms, incorporates a range of key features including a progress monitor/activity tracker; information on symptoms, the condition and treatment options associated with RA; and advice on ways to manage the condition, flare-ups and fatigue, through regular exercise, better diet and lifestyle.

Within the app, exercises can be viewed and selected individually to help focus on specific problem areas. The programme includes a range of exercises that aim to increase muscle strength and stamina, improve flexibility and reduce fatigue.

Moreover, the app features meditation tracks designed to help users manage their emotional and psychological wellbeing, among other features.

Dr Michele Doran, Consultant Rheumatologist, St James’s Hospital, Dublin, commented: “People of all ages are living with rheumatoid arthritis. No cure exists at present and the exact cause is unknown. However, there are many treatments available that can help to control the disease.

“The launch of the RAISE app is an important step in helping those with RA to manage their condition more efficiently and provides instant access to expert information, tips and resources.”

Mr John Church, Chief Executive of Arthritis Ireland, added: “We welcome the launch of this first-of-its-kind app and are confident it will significantly help those suffering with arthritis. Apps of this type provide a welcome additional tool to help people self-manage their condition.”