Inflammatory!

In this week’s episode of Inflammatory with Debbie and Katy, the hosts dive into a conversation that every person living with inflammatory arthritis can relate to - what causes a flare and how to cope when it hits.

From birthday party chaos and moving-house stress to hormones, grief, and sleepless nights, Debbie and Katy share their personal experiences, insights, and practical coping strategies. They explore the “cycle of doom” when life’s stresses, fatigue, and overdoing it collide, and discuss how to break that pattern with self-compassion, rest, and a realistic approach to living well with inflammatory arthritis.

This honest, funny, and heartfelt chat reminds listeners that while flares are tough, they don’t define you, and you can still live a full, joyful life beyond diagnosis.

Key takeaways:

• Stress is a major trigger: even positive stress like birthdays or weddings can cause a flare.

• Sleep is crucial: fatigue and poor rest often make symptoms worse.

• Hormones, grief, and big life events can all affect inflammation levels.

• Listen to your body: rest when you need to, without guilt.

• Don’t blame yourself: flares sometimes happen for no clear reason.

• Empowerment over management: learn from each flare rather than just “managing” it.

• Reach out for support: use your rheumatology team’s helpline, and don’t delay if pain persists.

Resources & Links:

• Inflammatory Arthritis website & newsletter

• Follow Inflammatory with Debbie and Katy on

  • Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn | Bluesky

If this episode resonated with you, please rate, follow, and share the podcast. Your support helps others living with inflammatory arthritis discover they’re not alone and that life goes on, even through the flares.

Disclaimer: Debbie and Katy are not medicalprofessionals. They share personal experiences of living with IA to build connection and community. The podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. We talk about our personalhealth journeys and the podcast is not intended to provide professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical professionals and in no way claim to be medically trained. The podcast does not take responsibility for anylosses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of the podcast. The podcast does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of third-party content.

·       Formore information, head to https://inflammatoryarthritis.org/

Final chance to fill Inflammatory! consultation here

Trustee Week Special – Behind the Scenes of Running aCharity

This week, Debbie and Katy celebrate Trustee Week (3–7November) with an honest chat about what it’s really like to start and run a charity from scratch.

They share the story behind Inflammatory Arthritis UK,from that first message and business plan to launching a national charity, all while managing work, health, and life (plus a bit of Halloween chaos and a laser quest birthday party!).

Hear them discuss:
What being a trustee really involves
The challenges of governance, funding, and planning
Balancing health and volunteering with inflammatory arthritis
Why time is the best currency you can give
How you can get involved as a trustee or volunteer

If you’ve ever thought about volunteering, joining a board,or just wondered how charities really work behind the scenes, this episode’sfor you.

📧 Get in touch: [email protected]
Learn more: inflammatoryarthritis.org

Memorable Quotes

“When you’re on a board, you’re all equal. It’s about havingthe confidence to use your voice.” – Debbie

“The best thing anyone can give is their time. That’s thebest currency.” – Katy

“We might not have big funds, but we have creativity,purpose, and lived experience and that’s powerful.” – Debbie

Follow and share to help us grow the community 💫
Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn | Bluesky → @Inflammarthritis

Next week: What Triggers a Flare? 🔥

🎧 Keywords:
trustee week, charity, volunteering, nonprofit, chronic illness, arthritis,inflammatory arthritis, autoimmune disease, health advocacy, patient voice,trustees, governance, lived experience, charity leadership, giving back,community support, health podcast, UK charities

Disclaimer: Debbie and Katy are not medical professionals. They share personal experiences of living with IA to buildconnection and community. The podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. We talk about our personal health journeys and the podcast is not intended to provide professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical professionals and in no way claim to be medically trained. The podcast does not take responsibility for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of the podcast. Thepodcast does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of third-party content.

·       Formore information, head to https://inflammatoryarthritis.org/

As autumn turns to winter, Debbie and Katy chat about the ups and downs of seasonal change, the darker mornings, aching joints, and staying motivated when it’s cold outside.

They share personal stories, warmth hacks, and practical tips for managing energy, mood, and inflammation through the colder months all with their usual humour and honesty.

Topics Covered

• Seasonal changes & mood: Why darker days can make us sluggish and how to boost your energy and mindset.

• Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Recognizing symptoms and easy lifestyle tips to help combat the “winter blues.”

• Keeping warm:

  • The ultimate indoor washing setup (dehumidifier + fan + heating)

  • Fleece-lined trousers, heat packs, and hand warmers

• Joint pain & cold weather: Are aching joints in winter real or psychological? Debbie and Katy discuss their experiences.

• Motivation & movement:

  • Scheduling exercise to beat the “it’s too cold” excuse

  • Indoor exercise options (from Pilates YouTube videos to bean-can workouts)

  • How to make movement fit your day and your mood

• Staying cozy:

  • Hot water bottles, electric blankets, and recliner sofas

  • Katy’s love of her dry robe (even if she’s not a wild swimmer!)

  • Comfort foods and slow-cooker meals — soup, shepherd’s pie, and warm lunches

• Self-compassion: Letting go of guilt for not meeting unrealistic exercise targets. Listen to your body — and rest when you need to.

Key Takeaways

• ✅ Something is better than nothing. Small bursts of movement can make a big difference.✅ Daylight matters. Try to get outside during daylight hours, even for 10 minutes.✅ Warmth = comfort. Invest in items that make winter more bearable, from gloves to cozy blankets.✅ No guilt zone. Don’t feel bad for slowing down; winter is a time for rest and reset.✅ Community helps. Exercising with others keeps you motivated and connected.

• Links:

  ⁠Hand warmers⁠

  ⁠Coat ⁠

  
  

📲 Follow us:

• Instagram | Facebook | BlueSky | LinkedIn📺 Watch the podcast on YouTube⭐ Rate, follow, and subscribe wherever you listen to your podcasts

“Just listen to your body. If you want to wrap up in a blanket and watch a film - do it. There’s nothing wrong with cozy.” Debbie

Disclaimer: Debbie and Katy are not medicalprofessionals. They share personal experiences of living with IA to build connection and community. The podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. We talk about our personal health journeys and the podcast is not intended to provide professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical professionals and in no way claim to be medically trained. The podcast does not take responsibility for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of the podcast. The podcast does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of third-party content.

·       Formore information, head to ⁠https://inflammatoryarthritis.org/⁠

Guest: Matt Brown, Physiotherapist & Strength Coach

In this week’s episode, Debbie and Katy chat with Matt Brown, a physiotherapist and strength coach, about how strength training can support people living with inflammatory arthritis (IA).

Matt shares his journey from personal training to physiotherapy and offers practical advice for building strength safely, even on flare days. They bust common myths, discuss how movement benefits both body and mind, and explore the science behind why something is always better than nothing.

Key Takeaways:

• • What Is Strength Training? Understanding what “strength” really means and how it differs from “resistance training.”

  • Exercise & IA: How people with inflammatory arthritis can safely engage in strength training, and why it can improve overall health, bone density, and confidence.

  • Bridging the Gap: The disconnect between personal trainers and healthcare professionals when it comes to chronic conditions — and how education and awareness can close that gap.

  • Practical Advice:

    • Start small — even 5–10 minutes of activity can help.

    • Focus on something over nothing — every bit of movement matters.

    • Modify exercises to suit your symptoms and energy levels.

    • Track your response to activity to understand your body’s patterns.

    • Find trusted, supportive fitness professionals who understand chronic illness.

  • The Mental Health Link: How movement can support mood and motivation during flares.

  • Systemic Benefits: Strength training not only supports joints and muscles, but also improves cardiovascular and immune health.

  “Start where you are, build gradually, and know that every bit of movement makes a difference.” – Matt Brown

Connect & resources:

• Instagram: @mattbrown_physio

• • Follow Inflammatory! on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn & BlueSky.
  • Research link

  
  Disclaimer: Debbie and Katy are not medical professionals. They share personal experiences of living with IA to build connection and community. The podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. We talk about our personal health journeys and the podcast is not intended to provide professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical professionals and in no way claim to be medically trained. The podcast does not take responsibility for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of the podcast. The podcast does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of third-party content. For more information, head to https://inflammatoryarthritis.org/

In this listener-led episode, Debbie and Katy answer yourmost-asked questions about living with inflammatory arthritis. From managing pain and fatigue to navigating treatment options like DMARDs and biologics, they share their real-life experiences, the challenges, the lessons, and the small wins that make a big difference.

The pair also catch up on exciting developments in arthritisresearch and patient initiatives, including Debbie’s work on a new Versus Arthritis-funded consortium and Katy’s role in the Parkrun Practice Initiative, which uses social prescribing to support community wellbeing.

This is an honest, relatable, and hopeful conversation foranyone affected by inflammatory arthritis, whether you’re newly diagnosed, supporting someone who is, or looking for practical ways to live well day to day.

Key Questions Discussed

• How long did it take to feel your symptoms were under control?
• How has your relationship with your body changed since diagnosis?
• What everyday gadgets or apps make life easier with IA?
• What do you still hope to achieve or experience despite living with IA?

Key TakeawayManaging inflammatory arthritis looks different for everyone, progress takes time, and “well-managed” doesn’t always mean pain-free. With the right support, community, and mindset, it’s possible to live a fulfilling, confident life while managing chronic illness.

Resources Mentioned

Kettle

Zip up bedding

Jar opener

Parkrun

Inflammatory Arthritis UK

Disclaimer: Debbie and Katy are not medical professionals. They share personal experiences of living with IA to build connection and community. The podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. We talk about our personal health journeys and the podcast is not intended to provide professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical professionals and in no way claim to be medically trained. The podcast does not take responsibility for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of the podcast. The podcast does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of third-party content.

·       For more information, head to  https://inflammatoryarthritis.org/

In this episode of Inflammatory!, Debbie and Katydive into an honest conversation about alcohol and its impact on life with inflammatory arthritis (IA). From social pressures to medication side effects, cultural habits to personal choices, they explore how drinking affects their health, fatigue, and flare-ups and how difficult it can be to balanceself-discipline with wanting a “normal” social life. They also reflect on conversations with their children about alcohol, the changing attitudes among younger generations, and practical realities like what to wear, how late to stay out, and the fatigue that comes the next day.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• Katy's love for cardio tennis and how sport fits into IA life
• Debbie's experience with boxercise as a mental health boost
• How alcohol interacts with disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARD's) medications and blood tests
• Difference in drinking culture between the UK and Europe
• Honest reflections on binge drinking, FOMO and self-discipline
• Parenting with IA: open conversations about alcohol with children and teens
• The real impact on drinking on joints, fatigue, and flare days
• Why choosing to drink (or not) is deeply personal and always evolving

Join the Conversation:
How does alcohol affect your IA symptoms, flares, or fatigue? Do you drink socially, at home, or not at all? We’d love to hear your experience, share your tips, thoughts, or stories with us on social media or by completing our survey.

Watch & Connect:

• Watch full episodes on YouTube
• Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Blueksy and LinkedIn
• Rate and Review the podcast wherever you listen

Disclaimer: Debbie and Katy are not medicalprofessionals. They share personal experiences of living with IA to buildconnection and community. The podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. We talk about our personal health journeys and the podcast is not intended to provide professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical professionals and in no way claim to be medically trained. The podcast does not take responsibility for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of the podcast. The podcast does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of third-party content.

For more information, head to  https://inflammatoryarthritis.org/

In this week’s episode of Inflammatory with Debbie andKaty, the hosts open up about one of the most difficult and often invisible aspects of living with inflammatory arthritis: pain. From describing what the pain actually feels like, to coping mechanisms that work (and don’t work), they share their personal journeys with honesty, humour, and resilience.

This conversation covers everything from the daily frustrations of flare-ups, to how pain affects mood, fatigue, relationships, and even simple tasks like cooking dinner or holding hands. Debbie and Katy also discuss practical tools like wrist supports, heat/cold packs, breathing exercises, and distraction techniques that help them push through the tough days.

Key Topics in This Episode

• Why pain is so difficult to describe and how doctors don’talways “get it”.
• The difference between constant dull pain and sharp flare pain.Coping strategies: from ice packs and warm baths to breathing and distraction.

• The impact of pain on mood, patience, and social life.
• How fatigue and pain often feed into each other.

• Gadgets, occupational health, and supports that makedaily life easier.
• Building resilience and finding community through shared experiences.
• Learning not to take everyday activities (like typing or making dinner) for granted

 Takeaways

• Pain is highly individual — no two people feel or describe it the same way.
• Distraction, relaxation, and pacing yourself can be as important as medication.
• Support systems matter, but sometimes solitude and self-care are what’s needed.
• Living with IA means constant balancing acts between movement, rest, and resilience.

📲 Connect with Us

Follow Inflammatory with Debbie and Katy on: Facebook,Instagram, Blue Sky, LinkedIn, YouTube

Sign up to our regular newsletter at inflammatoryarthritis.org

Living with Rheumatoid Arthritis: Sarah’s Journey from Denial to Empowerment

In this episode of Inflammatory!, Debbie and Katy sitdown with Sarah Yorke, who shares her deeply personal journey with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), from the confusion of her first symptoms to the challenges of getting a diagnosis, coping with denial, and ultimately finding strategies that help her live well with this unpredictable condition.

Sarah opens up about:

• The frustration of being dismissed by doctors as "too young" for arthritis.
• The shock of learning RA is a lifelong condition, not a temporary setback.
• How denial shaped her early response & what finally helped her move forward.
• The mental health struggles that come with living with fluctuation illness.
• Day-to-day strategies that make the biggest difference: sleep, nutrition, exercise & pacing.
• The importance of self-advocacy in healthcare & learning to trust your own instincts.
• Misconceptions about RA & why fatigue is one of the hardest symptoms to explain.

Her story is one of resilience, honesty, and hope, and a reminder that while everyone’s journey with RA is different, no one has to face it alone

Guest:

Follow Sarah Yorke on Instagram at @arthritisfit_by_sarahfor more on her health, fitness, and RA journey.

Links & Resources:

Take our Inflammatory Survey to shape future episodes InflammatoryArthritis.orgWatch episodes on YouTube

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Blue Sky & LinkedIn

Subscribe to our newsletter at InflammatoryArthritis.org🎧 Don’t forget to rate, follow, and share the podcast to help us reach more people living with inflammatory arthritis.

We need your help. Please do take a few minutes tocomplete our anonymous survey, to help us grow and improve the podcast.

 Please fill out the survey here: https://tinyurl.com/mtr7fvz5

Please note: All responses are anonymous. Aggregateresults may be shared with funders, trusts, and partner organisations to highlight the need for Inflammatory! and ensure its sustainability.

🎙️ Episode 26: Is Sitting Bad for Our Health?

This week Debbie and Katy are back after the summer break to tackle a big question: how bad is sitting for our health, especially with inflammatory arthritis?

They first discuss their summers, exam results, holidays andhaving a bout of Covid thrown into the mix. They then cover:  

• Why sitting for long periods can harm joints
• Simple hacks to move more: school runs, dog walks, standing desks, fitness trackers
• Supporting children with JIA at school: healthcare plans & small adjustments
• University and work Disability Student Allowance, workplace support, and useful tools
• Health updates: new JIA guideline consultation & vaccine news (chickenpox, shingles, flu, COVID)

Resources & Links

Healthcare Plan template

Disability Student Allowance

BSR JIA guideline survey

Vaccine update: Chicken pox, shingles

Stay Connected

Follow Inflammatory Arthritis UK on Instagram,Bluesky, Facebook & LinkedIn.
Sign up for the newsletter at InflammatoryArthritis.org.

Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes onlyand is not intended to replace professional medical advice. We talk about our personal health journeys and the podcast is not intended to provide professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical professionals and in no way claim to be medically trained. The podcast does not take responsibility for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of the podcast. The podcast does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of third-party content.

For more information, head to https://inflammatoryarthritis.org/

In this bonus summer episode, Debbie and Katy catch up while one of them enjoys a holiday in Crete, navigating the intense heat, a lingering cold, and the added challenges of inflammatory arthritis and being immunosuppressed.

They explore the realities of travelling with a chronic condition, from heightened sun sensitivity due to medication, to the constant need for sun protection, shade, and mindful pacing to balance relaxation with health needs.

Their conversation also delves into family dynamics, making thoughtful food choices on all-inclusive holidays, and the value of self-compassion when things don’t go as planned. They reflect on the delicate balance between denial and mindfulness when living with a long-term condition, and the importance of giving yourself permission to rest.

The episode closes with a gentle reminder to be kind to yourself, savour the moment, and stay connected through their website and social media.

Stay Connected:

Follow the team on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Blue Sky. Visit inflammatoryarthritis.org for updates, newsletters, and ways to support the cause.

Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. We talk about our personal health journeys, and the podcast is not intended to provide professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical professionals and in no way claim to be medically trained. The podcast does not take responsibility for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of the podcast. The podcast does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of third-party content.

For more information, head to https://inflammatoryarthritis.org/

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