Using a website containing patient narratives to understand people’s experiences of living with arthritis

SummaryThe aim of this article is to explore people’s personal experiences of living with arthritis through a thematic analysis of data contained within the BBC’s health web site [British Broadcasting Corporation, 2002. The Arthritis Guide: Helping you to help yourself (Online). Available from: http://www.bbc.co.uk/health/arthritis (accessed 21 June 2002)]. A research question, which could be answered by this study, is “What are people’s experiences of living with arthritis?”The findings illustrated how the respondents used various psychological and behavioural mechanisms to help them cope and adjust to the changes brought about by their condition. Some of the respondents also spoke about how their experiences of having contact with health care professionals had left them dissatisfied with the care and attention they had been given. However, others spoke of more positive experiences. Another important aspect emphasised by the respondents was the length of time it took to obtain any form of diagnosis and the corresponding effects this had on their treatment and progress. The health care professionals’ attitudes towards the patients and their symptoms had also played a significant role in this process. Finally, the social implications and effects upon personal relationships were also highlighted.