The Arthritis Action Podcast is back for our fifth series. In our first episode we are joined by Icarus Williams, Specialised Neurodiversity Affirming Therapist and Researcher. Icarus talks to us about neurodivergence, and the different ways that it interacts with and affects arthritis, including perceptions and treatment.

www.arthritisaction.org.uk

podcast@arthritisaction.org.uk

SEDS Connective: https://www.sedsconnective.org/

The Arthritis Action Podcast shares expert insight and lived experience to support people living with arthritis to manage their condition day-to-day.

Explore practical self-management resources and sign up to our free monthly eNews for regular tips, support and updates at arthritisaction.org.uk.

Series 5 coming 2nd February 2026

www.arthritisaction.org.uk

podcast@arthritisaction.org.uk

This episode Marc is joined by Stylist and Salon Owner Charlotte Davis to talk about the importance of both looking and feeling good with arthritis. They discuss the effects that the condition and medication can have on your skin and hair, the physical difficulties of grooming and the role self-image plays in addressing mood and confidence.

www.arthritisaction.org.uk

podcast@arthritisaction.org.uk

The Institute of Trichologists: https://trichologists.org.uk/about-us/

In this episode Marc is joined by Physiotherapist and Researcher Mercy Joy. Mercy discusses the importance of exercise and activity, the challenges in getting started both physically and mentally and gives some practical tips on how to implement exercise into your daily life.

Movement Snacks: https://www.arthritisaction.org.uk/movement_snacks/

www.arthritisaction.org.uk

podcast@arthritisaction.org.uk

In this episode Marc is joined by Cynthia Swarnalatha, Senior Researcher in Physiotherapy at the University of Oxford. They talk about how arthritis can affect your hands; including exercises, splints, braces and other treatments that can help you manage symptoms as well as the importance of resting them.

www.arthritisaction.org.uk

podcast@arthritisaction.org.uk

Gadgets for arthritis: https://www.arthritisaction.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Gadgets-and-Aids-for-Arthritis.pdf

Hand Exercises: https://www.arthritisaction.org.uk/living-with-arthritis/resource-centre/arthritis-exercises/

In this episode Marc is joined by Professor Weiya Zhang from the University of Nottingham. The pair discuss the effects that placebos can have on pain management, their use in modern and historical treatment and the ethical implications of using them in the treatment of arthritis.

www.arthritisaction.org.uk

podcast@arthritisaction.org.uk

In this episode of the podcast, Marc speaks to Caroline Flurey, Chartered Psychologist and Associate Professor of Men’s Health and Long-Term Conditions at the University of the West of England.

The pair discuss how men may not always be proactive at accessing healthcare services for their arthritis. They also explore the male patient experience, self-management of the physical and psychological impacts of arthritis, and how services can be delivered to best enhance their participation, as a harder-to-reach patient group.

www.arthritisaction.org.uk

podcast@arthritisaction.org.uk

Marc talks to Kirsty Veitch-Sorsby, Tackling Loneliness Collaborative Lead at Bassetlaw Community and Voluntary Service, about how arthritis can affect your ability to remain social and engaged with other people. The pair discuss avenues you can take to meet new people, and what help is available for those who find themselves feeling lonely, or isolated.

https://www.arthritisaction.org.uk/living-with-arthritis/resource-centre/mental-health-directory/

podcast@arthritisaction.org.uk