About the Arthritis Society 

The Arthritis Society was founded on 9 October 1976 and is a charity that works for the interests of individuals with arthritis and related health conditions in Iceland. The association is one of the largest patient organisations in Iceland, as on average one in five Icelanders develops an arthritis condition at some point in their lives.

The association operated for the majority of its time at Ármúli 5 in Reykjavík, but moved its operations in 2022 to Brekkuhús 1 in newly refurbished premises that better suit the needs of its activities and better meet modern accessibility requirements. The Rheumatism Association has, from the outset, had the following aim:

Role and objectives

• Improving the quality of life for people with arthritis through prevention, education, support and services.
• Promote research on rheumatic diseases and their treatment.
• Working towards better healthcare and access to diagnosis and treatment.
• Educate the public and healthcare professionals about rheumatic diseases.
• Strengthening the social network of rheumatism patients with group work and peer support groups.
  
  

Main services and projects

• Education: Brochures, web content and lectures on various rheumatic diseases and treatments.
• Rehabilitation: The association offers physiotherapy, occupational therapy, hydrotherapy and manual therapy, specialised to the needs of people with arthritis.
• Advice: The association provides advice on illnesses and rights.
• Social activities: Groups and chapters across the country with events, socialising and support.
• Sponsorship funds: Thorbjarnarsjóður and other grants for study and research projects.
  
  

Membership

Anyone with an interest in or connection to rheumatology can become a member. Members get access to:

• Regular newsletter.
• Advice and education.
• Access to educational material on the website.
• Peer support groups and other group activities, both on-site at Brekkuhús and on Facebook.
• Discounts with partners.
  
  

Home page and contacts

• Website: www.gigt.is
• Email address: gigt@gigt.is
• Telephone: 530-3600
• Location: Brekkuhús 1, 112 Reykjavík