Giovanna's journey with hand osteoarthritis

What does it really mean to live with hand osteoarthritis, and how do you stay active and engaged in life when your hands are constantly painful? On this week's episode of Joint Action, Giovanna Lever joins Professor David Hunter to share her personal journey living with hand osteoarthritis, diagnosed at 45 after years of struggling with pain, and what it has meant for her work, travel, and family life.

Giovanna Lever is the Founder and Managing Director of Sparrowly Group, a Sydney-based consultancy working in economic development, community development, workforce planning, and tourism strategy across Australia and the Asia-Pacific. She is an advocate for accessible and inclusive tourism and co-founder of AccessA, a platform focused on accessibility and inclusion for businesses and tourism operators. Diagnosed with arthritis in her hands in 2025, she continues to champion an active and healthy lifestyle despite a busy schedule involving work, travel, and family life.

RESOURCESJournal article

Efficacy of a Combination of Conservative Therapies vs an Education Comparator on Clinical Outcomes in Thumb Base OsteoarthritisA Randomized Clinical Trial

Links

COMBO study supplemental informationFunctional equipmentDaily living aidsAssistive devices for arthritis of the handsAssistive products

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CONNECT WITH USNaia Health: https://www.naiahealth.com.au/st-leonards-hubJoin one of our trials: https://www.osteoarthritisresearch.com.au/current-trialsInstagram: @ProfDavidHunterTwitter: @ProfDavidHunter @jointactionorgEmail: hello@jointaction.infoWebsite: www.jointaction.info/podcast

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