Whether your work is teaching in a classroom, caring for patients, working on a building site, driving a tractor, standing behind a checkout or sitting at a desk, arthritis can make parts of your workday more challenging.
We have comprehensive Arthritis and Work information on our website Arthritis and Work – For Employees, which includes workplace adjustments, talking with your employer, your rights and responsibilities, and where to go for further support.
It's common to think you have to push through the pain or stiffness, but struggling in silence isn't your only option. Often, recognising what's becoming difficult and exploring practical solutions can help you continue working safely and confidently.
Rather than focusing on your arthritis, try thinking about your workday.
Ask yourself:
- What tasks are becoming more difficult?
- When do I notice my symptoms the most?
- What would make my workday easier?
The answers will be different for everyone. For one person it might be standing for long periods, for another it could be lifting, repetitive movements, using their hands, sitting for extended periods or managing fatigue throughout the day. Once you've identified the challenge, you can start thinking about practical ways to make that task easier.
Sometimes small changes can make a big difference. It might be using different equipment, changing how a task is completed, taking regular movement breaks, adjusting your workstation, wearing supportive footwear, pacing physically demanding work or planning heavier tasks for times when your energy is highest.
Another question we often hear is, "Do I need to tell my employer I have arthritis?"
You don't always need to tell your employer about your arthritis. However, if your condition is affecting your ability to do your job safely or you think workplace adjustments may help, it may be worth having an open conversation. The best outcomes often come when employees and employers work together to find practical solutions that support both the individual and the workplace.
To help you prepare for that conversation, we've developed two practical resources:
Five questions to ask yourself before talking to your employer – a simple worksheet to help you identify what's difficult, what's working well and what support may help.
Workplace conversation checklist – a practical guide to help you organise your thoughts before speaking with your employer.
These resources are designed to complement our comprehensive Arthritis and Work information which has been developed specifically for New Zealand workplaces and reviewed by an employment lawyer, giving you confidence that the guidance reflects current employment principles.
If you're working and arthritis affects your day, we encourage you to explore these resources before problems become overwhelming.
If you'd like to talk through your own situation, our Arthritis Assist team is here to help. We offer free one on one support to help you think through your options, build confidence in managing arthritis at work and prepare for conversations with your employer.
Contact us via email
Phone us on 0800 663 463
