The psychological aspects of music and the most common form of arthritis are the subjects of two free lunchtime public lectures starting next week. The talks by University of Bristol experts, John Barrett and Dr Mo Sharif, are aimed at a non-scientific audience.
Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, affecting more than 80 per cent of those who reach the age of 70. This degenerative joint disease can affect everyday life long-term and so it is crucial that people take an active role in managing the condition. To enable people to learn more about the causes, prevention and treatment of this disease, Dr Sharif, Lecturer in Anatomy, will present a talk on Wednesday, November 2, 'Osteoarthritis: current research and developments in delaying or even preventing the need for joint replacement surgery.'
Dr Sharif said: "We are now able to identify patients that are likely to worsen with the progression of this disease, and advise them to be aware of the associated risk factors. We can then assess whether patients should receive a form of intensive treatment, which would prevent the need for invasive joint surgery.
"This will have numerous beneficial effects including reducing the prolonged pain and disability and the cost of drugs needed."
The talk will take place at Westbury-on-Trym Village Hall, Eastfield Road, Bristol.
New research conducted by psychologists has revealed the many different advantages of listening to music. John Barrett, Lecturer in Experimental Psychology, will present his talk 'Tingle and effort: music and the brain' on Wednesday, November 16. This talk will explore the numerous psychological, health and educational benefits of music, including how it communicates emotion, how it can enhance our learning abilities and improve our health and how we can further develop our musical skills for the future.
The talk will take place at The Royal National Institute for the Blind, 10 Still House Lane, Bedminster, Bristol.
The talks are organised by the University's Community Engagement Team based in the Public Programmes Office. All talks take place on Wednesdays from 1 to 2 pm. No pre-booking is necessary and members of the audience are welcome to bring their sandwiches.