Healthcare professionals are being urged to refer patients with arthritis to a programme which helps people to manage the condition better and has been proven to reduce pain and fatigue among sufferers.

Arthritis refers to an inflammation of the joints that can cause pain and immobility. The condition can range from mild to severe and around 915,000 people in Ireland are affected, including 1,100 children.

The ‘Living Well with Arthritis' programme is run by Arthritis Ireland (AI) and over the last eight years, more than 4,000 people have benefitted from it.

"It has been proven, both nationally and internationally, to reduce pain and fatigue of arthritis and improve the performance of medication. We are keen to encourage healthcare professionals to refer people with arthritis into the programme to continue to grow it in 2015," commented AI chief executive, John Church.

The programme has been found to benefit people with arthritis in a number of ways, including by reducing pain, reducing the number of times people need to see their doctor, improving mental health and improving knowledge of medication and treatments.

"This year, I'm delighted to say that 40 courses will be offered in over 22 counties by trained leaders that are dedicated to improving people's mobility, mood and quality of life," Mr Church said.

People must be over the age of 18 to take part and the courses are suitable for all types and stages of arthritis. The programme lasts six weeks and is taught in weekly two-and-a-half hour sessions.

People can sign up online here for a fee of €30 (or €22 for medical card holders). If you sign up by telephone or email, the fee is €36 (€26 for medical card holders). Call 1890 252 846 or email training@arthritisireland.ie