The Arthritis Society of Iceland
- 530 3600
- Brekkuhúsum 1
- gigt@gigt.is
- Monday - Thursday: 9:00 - 15:00
- 530 3600
- Brekkuhúsum 1
- gigt@gigt.is
- Monday - Thursday: 9:00 - 15:00
Treatments
Appropriate treatment and training improves quality of life
You can book a physiotherapy appointment via the button on the right or by calling 530 3600.
Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy reduces pain and increases joint mobility and strength. In this way, the treatment has a positive effect on the health and quality of life of people with arthritis.
It involves strengthening and stretching exercises, massage, and instruction in correct body mechanics. The aim is to restore function and prevent further problems.
A referral from a doctor is required for physiotherapy.
Physiotherapy is subsidised by the National Health Insurance of Iceland.
You can book an occupational therapy appointment via the button on the right or by calling 530-3600.
Occupational therapy
Occupational therapy aims to improve the skills and quality of life of people who are struggling with pain, or illnesses that affect their ability to cope with daily activities. Occupational therapists work with clients to find ways to increase independence, reduce distress and make activities of daily living possible.
The treatment includes exercises, education and advice on aids or environmental adaptations to facilitate participation in daily life.
A specific request from a doctor is required for physiotherapy.
Occupational therapy is subsidised by the National Health Insurance of Iceland.
The next courses start:
7th and 8th April
Tuesdays at 12
Wednesdays at 12
Foot mobility - fascial release
Foot Mobility – Fasciatherapy are new classes at the Rheumatism Association. These classes will include gentle movements, stretches and fascial release for the feet, soles, toes and other parts of the body. The course is suitable for those who want to reduce pain and stiffness.
The classes are led by Jón Guðbjörg, a sports scientist.
The course runs for six weeks.
Each lesson is 50 minutes.
Price: 19,900kr
Price for members: 15,900 kr
The next courses start:
7th and 8th April
Tuesdays: 11:00 and 12:30
Wednesdays: 11:00 and 12:30
Hand exercise and wax
Hand exercises have a very positive effect on the function of the hands and fingers by maintaining and improving flexibility and strength.
The session begins with a wax treatment on the hands, providing a good relaxation as the hands and fingers warm up and soften. Then exercises are performed for the hands and fingers.
The classes are led by occupational therapist Gudbjörg Guðmundsdóttir.
On a doctor's referral, the course is considered group therapy with an occupational therapist and is therefore partially funded by the Icelandic Health Insurance.
Courses start on 7 and 8 April and run until 5 and 6 May. You can choose from four time slots.
Price on request: 24,400 kr.
Price for members: 14,600 kr.
On a doctor's recommendation for physiotherapy, the sessions are subsidised by the National Health Service.
Tuesdays and Thursdays
Grensás at 15:15
Mondays and Wednesdays
High Street at 16:30
Aqua aerobics
Exercise in water is very good for people with musculoskeletal problems. In water, movements become easier and there is less strain on the joints, which is why water aerobics is very suitable for people with rheumatic diseases.
Qualified and experienced instructors run the classes, which take place at Grensáslaug and at the Sjálfsbjörg Swimming Pool in Hátún.
Grensás times are only for women.
The course consists of 12 sessions from 25 August to 2 October.
Price for members:
£36.60.
Outside the club:
47,000 kr.
Thu 26 Mar, Tue 31 Mar,
Thu 9 Apr, Mon 20 Apr,
Thu 30 April and Tue 5 May
All sessions are from 11 am to 12 pm.
Chronic pain
Join a six-week group course with people who have personal experience of chronic pain. The course is led by occupational therapist Svava Arnardóttir and consists of discussions, education and a variety of tools from the toolkit.
The course fee without a placement request is 45,000 kr.
On a doctor's referral, the course is considered group therapy with an occupational therapist and is therefore partially funded by the Icelandic Health Insurance.
Price for members:
45,000 kr.
Thursdays from 11 am to 12 pm
15th, 22nd, 29th January
5, 12, 19 February 2026
My life story
Join a six-week group course for people who want to delve into themselves and the interconnectedness of things. What is our existence and how can we live a meaningful life? The course is led by Svava Arnardóttir, an occupational therapist, and is based on discussions, education and a variety of tools.
Course fee without a request for occupational therapy:
45,000 kr.
On a doctor's referral, the course is considered group therapy with an occupational therapist and is therefore partially funded by the Icelandic Health Insurance.
The course is held at Brekkhúsum 1, the premises of the Rheumatism Association.
Price for members:
45,000 kr.
Tuesdays: 17:30
Wednesdays: 17:30
Spring term walking group
twice a week
Walking is good all-round exercise and it is important to maintain the ability to walk for as long as possible.
The walking group meets twice a week at Egilshöll during the winter, and outdoors in good weather during the summer. Qualified sports instructors support the group with guidance, stretching exercises and advice. Free for members.
Price for members:
3,000 kr. the term
Tuesdays: 17:30
Wednesdays: 17:30
Chair exercises
twice a week
A course for people with arthritis who want to improve their mobility and strength in a safe and enjoyable way. The emphasis is on gentle, joint-stretching movements that reduce pain and stiffness.
Price for members:
4,900 kr.
Tuesdays: 17:30
Wednesdays: 17:30
Flexibility and strength
twice a week
A course for people with arthritis who want to improve their mobility, strength and well-being. The emphasis is on gentle, joint-stretching exercises and stretches that reduce pain and stiffness.
Price for members:
General price: 4,900 kr.
In summer
Yoga classes
Tilveran Health Centre offers members of the Arthritis Society of Iceland special rates on yoga. Members receive a 20% discount on all yoga classes with registration. Yoga can be a great way to improve mobility, reduce stress and gently strengthen the body. Tilveran focuses on well-being and offers adapted exercises for everyone, including people with arthritis.