Make Working With Rheumatoid Arthritis Easier

Even though you interact with your supervisor and coworkers every day, they may not really know that much about your rheumatoid arthritis (RA). What's more, your coworkers may just not understand what it’s like living with rheumatoid arthritis. That's why it's so important to explain how RA affects you at work — and what they can do to help.

Help may take the form of simple understanding. Or it might be changes that make it easier for you to keep working to your full potential with RA.

Try having an open and honest discussion about what you need to get from your employer so that your employer can get more from you. Here are some things that might make a big difference in how you manage your RA at work:

• More easily accessible employee facilities such as ramps, ergonomic desk accessories, or a different height workspace
• Supportive items for your joints and feet such as anti-fatigue matting or an adjustable chair
• Periodic rest breaks or stretches
• An alternative workweek that includes some telecommuting or different hours that will help you avoid rush-hour crowds
• A position at work that will be easier on your body. For example, if your current job requires physical labor, maybe you can be transferred to a desk job