Book Description

Customer Reviews (3)

Thorough, Informative & empowering
I was diagnosed in Apr07 and didn't find this book until Jan08.I wish I had it earlier!It has all the necessary information and recommendations all in one place.She addresses key priorities, medications, holistic approaches, nutrition, organization, information resources, self-motivation, exercise and remind you that you can still have a life with RA.This book has it all and provides a good basis for someone to be able to plan and take control of their own future care.I especially like that she provides empowerment to the individual and remind them to use the support of their "team".This book reminds me to see beyond other people's misconceptions and be able to plan for a very mobile future!

Rheumatoid Arthritis
I am a newly diagnosed patient of Rheumatoid Arthritis and this book is easy to read and understand. Although this is a chronic disease, this book has given me hope. I am 53 and was diagnosed early enough that my symptoms may be able to control.Wonderful,inspiring, and educational book. Thank You M.E.A. McNeil!!

Stephanie Rogers
This is the best book I've read so far about Rheumatoid Arthritis.It is current- the stories are encouraging.I found the information and advice is truly helpful.There are too many horror stories out there! ... Read more

Book Description

A trusted guide and an invaluable resource, Living with Rheumatoid Arthritis offers practical advice for the millions of people coping with this painful disease. Now thoroughly revised and expanded, in a second edition, this book brings readers up to date with the latest methods of diagnosis and treatment.

Building on their accessible explanation of the disease and its causes, the authors describe the essential components of care: medication, joint protection, physical activity, and good nutrition. They provide a wealth of new information on medications, including biologic response--modifiers, alternative and complementary approaches, and treatments for osteoporosis (which often accompanies rheumatoid arthritis), and they describe safe and effective ways to cope with pain, stiffness, and fatigue. The book helps readers understand their own emotional responses, as well as those of family and friends, and, because the disease often entails lifestyle changes, it provides practical advice for achieving as normal a life as possible.

With the latest information on medication, nutrition, and resources (online and off), this volume is a complete and comprehensive guide to the management of a difficult disease.

Customer Reviews (6)

Too narrow-minded in its approach
This book provides excellent information about what rheumatoid arthritis is, how to distinguish it from osteoarthritis, etc.

However, I don't want to live with RA, I want to recover from it. As such, this book offers no help in this regard. It tells me about drugs that I can take and splints that I can wear to help me from becoming completely disabled, but offers me no hope of recovery.

In contrast, the book "Conquering Arthritis" by Barbara Allan, is the well-researched account of someone who took charge of their health and fought to recover from the disease, to get their life back. And succeeded! I'm well on the road to recovery myself by applying the principles in her book. Now that's a book well worth spending your money on!

Wonderful Introduction to this disease
I was diagnosed with RA in December and picked this book up soon after.It gives lots of information about the course of the disease, medications, exercises and diet.I've loaned it to family members and reference it whenever I have a question about what my body is doing.The only drawback is that medications are developing at such a fast rate, that the book is already a bit outdated after only 3 years.However, it is still a great starting point.

This is a work of superb medical scholarship
Now in an updated and expanded second edition, Living With Rheumatoid Arthritis by Tammi L. Shlotzhauer (Clinical Instructor of Medicine at the University of Rochester Medical Center and Practicing Rheumatologist at Rheumatology Associates of Rochester) and James L. McGuire (Chairman of the Department of Medicine at Mount Auburn Hospital, Cambridge, Massachusetts) is a large print compendium of the latest information on Rheumatoid Arthritis concerning the diagnosis, treatment, and daily life (from special diets to possible alternative therapies and more) with this troublesome and painful disease. Living With Rheumatoid Arthritis informatively presents its facts in terms and text ideal for the non-specialist general reader, yet without glossing over specific issues, problems, medicines, or other challenges facing rheumatoid arthritis sufferers. Simply put -- this is a work of superb medical scholarship and Living With Rheumatoid Arthritis should be on the shelves and available to the patrons of every community library system in this country.

Two Thumbs Up!
This book gives a lot of layman explanations to medical technical jargon that the doctors throw at new patients. At times the reading was a bit dry, but this book serves as a daily reference to me with the many challenges I face as a newly diagnosed RA patient.

A Complete guide to Rheumatoid Arthritis
This book covers all aspects of this disease and is written by a practicing Rheumatologist.RA is considered one of the "inflammatory" forms of arthritis and is now generally consideredan autoimmune disease.Topics covered in depth include what joints arecommonly affected, other organs that may also be involved and some of theother complications that may be experienced.The testing commonlyperformed by Physicians is discussed at length and explained in lay terms. The general progression of the disease differs in different individuals andthis is discussed as well. The treatments such as medications, therapy,surgery are discussed individually and in depth in lay terms.Exercise isalso covered.Some other aspects that are discussed are emotional issuesand disability.This book actually presents a solid in depth knowledge ofthe diease and contains a lot of information that many family practionersand generalist may not be aware of as they are not specialists in thisdisease process.This book should be read and owned by anyone with thisdisease or a loved one with this disease.All of the information ispresented in lay terms that are easy to understand.There are numerousillustrations as well. ... Read more

Book Description
Rheumatoid arthritis is a painful, incurable connective-tissue disease that attacks the hands, feet, and joints and may lead to deformities and permanent disabilities. This book, written by a doctor and health journalist will offer comprehensive medical advice and lifestyle information for the nearly three million Americans who suffer from this disease.

The book uses mind-body techniques and alternative medicine to cope with the pain and discomfort, including information on:

• Pain relief
• Exercise
• Nutrition
• Managing your relationship with your doctors

Customer Reviews (2)

By far, one of the best!
This is one of the best books on rheumatoid arthritis that I've seen.I usually scan a few pages to get a feel for how the information is presented, and more times than not, I find it's either over my head, poorly organized, or both.Not the case with this book!There's an absolute wealth of information in this book that's both well-presented and easy to understand. Anyone suffering from this condition or who has relatives with rheumatoid arthritis will find the info in this book to be extremely helpful in not only coping with it, but fighting back to regain an active lifestyle.The authors Yu and Fischer did just a wonderful job with this book!!

WHAT TO DO WHEN THE DOCTOR SAYS IT RHEUMATIOD ARTHRITIS
GREAT BOOKVERY HELPFUL WELL WRITTEN ... Read more

Book Description
From the Arthritis Foundation, a trusted source of health information and guidance for more than 50 years, Good Living With Rheumatoid Arthritis, 3rd Edition, explains new research and treatments in clear, simple language. Readers will learn how to be proactive patients, how to stretch daily to reduce pain and increase flexibility, and how to judge the many over-the-counter drugs and supplements on the market today. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

The Arthritis Foundation's Guide to Good Living with Rheumatoid Arthritis, 3rd Edition
Excellent up to date information.

Great Information!
This book is perfect for anyone who wants to learn about Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA).It explains, in very good detail, the process a person who is diagnosed with RA will go through.It explains medically what is happening; how to understand the "medical team" that you will have; what treatments exist and their most common side-effects; and coping skills.Anyone who has recently been diagnosed with RA should definitely read this book.Anyone who is supporting a person with RA would also benefit from reading this book.I would highly recommend it. ... Read more

Book Description
This book provides hard-earned, practical, detailed information that is critical for successful healing of arthritis, but that has never before been collected in one book. Without this information many people with arthritis will not get well.

The information is organized into a well-researched, easy-to-follow plan for getting well again and includes case histories of people with dramatic and lasting recoveries.

It focuses not just on coping with the symptoms of arthritis, but on correcting its underlying causes using proven alternative medicine and pain management techniques.

Anyone who is serious about healing from arthritis needs this book. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (48)

AWESOME BOOK FOR THE HEALTH CONSCIOUS IN GENERAL!!!!
Thanks so much for writing your book and making yourself accessible to people all over the world who are seeking help and answers with regard to arthritis.You really helped someone I know both through your book and through your phone consultation with her.

I have read your book and the way you have met adversity in your life is so admirable and inspiring. You, to my eye, are like the phoenix who flew through the ashes.Although I do not have arthritis, I have made a lot positive changes in my diet in large measure due to your book.

I also got tested for food allergies in keeping with the recommendation in your book and now know to avoid peanuts and realize the signs of inflammation that I was experiencing and ignoring every time I ate them.However, since the testing that I had done was not extensive, I will at some point purchase and benefit from the results of the alcat which you recommend in your book and on your website.My understanding is that the alcat tests one not only for antibodies, but also for sensitivities to 150 foods.

Barbara, your book is such a comprehensive guide for people about all of the kinds of things they should know and can do to heal themselves physically, emotionally and spiritually.

I know someone with rheumatoid arthritis and someone with osteoarthritis.Have recommended your book to both of them.

Your book is a blessing to arthritis sufferers and it is so useful as well to those who just want to nurture themselves in the best, most health conscious ways.It contains proactive health tips for any health conscious individual who wants to be sure to consume healthy foods and avoid foods that cause inflammation in their bodies.

Gratefully, Grace

Great Information for arthritis sufferers
This author has figured out what causes many cases of arthritis.I have osteoarthritis and have been following her recommendations for about a month now.I can already tell a difference in the way I feel.If I cheat, I can really tell the difference the next day.I recommend this book.

Using The Book
Book was very organized and as a result was clear.The format of explanation and then giving a plan of action was excellent.The only thing it needed to be a 5 Star was a little more humor.

Great Book!
A different theory at what causes arthritis, written by someone who generally cured herself.Talks a lot about food sensitivities that cause arthritis and how to figure out what your food sensitivity so you can avoid or reduce your expose thus feel better.

The Type of Arthritis the Author Has Should Be Revealed!
I think this is a good book, but unfortunately, the author's type of arthritis (allergic) is not related to rheumatoid arthritis, which is what my husband has.So, basically, I wasted my money on a book we cannot use. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Finally, a comprehensive discussion of RA we can understand.
This discussion on RA is the most comprehensive available in layman's terms.This disease process is so complicated and the research on treatment so varied, trying to keep up on journal articles or short publications is almost impossible. This book puts more useable information between the two covers than you will find anywhere. Unlike medical journals, the disease process explanations are concise and understandable.Although the explanations are detailed and scientific and may take more than one reading to get your brain around the complex concepts, it nicely falls somewhere in between the very oversimplified information found in "arthritis" books available at bookstores and over-complicated and hard-to-read medical book information. Truly helpful is the detail about how clinical trials are conducted and the complicated sequence of events that occur in treatment research. It makes the waiting for decades for new treatments a little easier to understand. Also helpful are the briefs on current research (now a bit out of date-some of the "in trials" treatments in the book have been approved and are available) that is ongoing along with web sites so individuals can follow trials, results, research progress, etc. and even contains information on joining in some of the clinical trials. The description of the immune processes is very helpful. Not only does it help the reader understand the immune system as a whole, and the effect of this disease on the immune system, it also gives a good picture of how HIV and AIDS compares on the opposite end of the immunity spectrum (overactive vs. underactive immune system). Best of all, this book arms RA sufferers with good information to be able to take a more active role in their own treatment. Buy it for a friend who has RA or buy it for yourself. You will want to reread it several times.

Best Gift for someone with rheumatoid arthritis!
If you have rheumatoid arthritis, or if a friend or loved one has been diagnosed with this disease I highly recommend this book as an invaluable source of information.Not only is it packed with facts on rheumatoid arthritis ranging from details of exactly what is happening in the joints and the immune system to useful Web sites to keep up on the latest details on new medications and treatment approaches, it is also clearly and beautifully written.It really is a handbook to help readers make informed decisions with their physcians.Included as well are fascinating insights into possible future treatments now in the research stage - from the use of stem cells to gene therapy.
This is the best gift you can give a friend who suffers from RA. ... Read more

Book Description
Foreword by Dr. Harold W. Clark, author of "Why Arthritis?"

Appendices by Dr. Joseph Mercola (mercola.com) and Dr. Garth Nicolson (Institute for Molecular Medicine)

Definitions of terms

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EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE CONSULTING YOUR DOCTOR!

******************************

A research scientist and former arthritis sufferer outlines a proven treatment that could banish your arthritis pain forever. This well-documented study presents evidence that rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and other chronic illnesses are caused by microbial infection. When the infection triggers allergic reactions, it appears that the body's immune system has turned on itself. Once the cause of the infection and allergies are identified and removed, arthritis symptoms will decrease and likely disappear as long as the body's collective systems remain in balance.

********************************

IN THIS BOOK YOU WILL DISCOVER:

-- Actions of microorganisms that cause RA-mycoplasmas, mycobacteria, molds, spirochetes (e.g., Lyme), viruses, bacteria and their L-forms;
-- Their role in other chronic illnesses with arthritis-like symptoms such as Fibromyalgia, Lupus, Multiple Sclerosis, and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome;
-- Online authoritative medical information and support organizations;
-- The best Internet sites to research health, drugs, treatments, and disease;
-- What diagnostic tests are available and where to get them;

AND LEARN WAYS TO:
-- Recognize and suppress pathogenic microorganisms;
-- Destroy or eliminate the toxins they produce;
-- Control the allergies that trigger RA reactions;
-- Strengthen the immune system using natural, non-toxic methods;
-- Locate a health care professional to work with you.

*********************************

Conventional RA treatments include toxic drugs that reduce painful symptoms but do not treat the root cause, namely, bacterial infection. An immune system weakened by drugs (e.g., antidepressants or antihistamines), improper diet, stress, and multiple infections is unable to produce the quantity and quality of natural antibodies to stave off new attacks. This book describes the steps necessary to:

-- Identify, attack, and remove the cause(s) of the infection(s);
-- Neutralize pathogen-generated wastes (toxins and harmful enzymes);
-- Flush these wastes from the body; and
-- Restore the body's systems to normal, healthy function.

*******************************

Until recently, testing methods to identify these microorganisms precisely and to prescribe effective treatments have not been available. Traditional treatments with immunosuppressing drugs often breed stronger, more resistant bacterial organisms, which mutate and grow, overwhelming the immune system's resources. Undiagnosed food and chemical allergies can also amplify the severity of arthritis symptoms. In this book, both the lay reader and physician will find an effective course of treatment possibly leading to a cure for RA and other chronic illnesses with arthritis-like symptoms. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (18)

Full of valuable information
In this excellent book, Dr. Poehlmann explains how germs trigger the so-called autoimmune diseases where our immune systems seem to be attacking us. She focuses on rheumatoid arthritis, but the book also covers related illnesses such as fibromyalgia, lupus, Lyme disease, multiple sclerosis, reactive arthritis, and chronic fatigue syndrome.
Rheumatoid Arthritis discusses many pathogens, especially cell-wall deficient bacteria such as Mycoplasma. An appendix written by Dr. Joseph Mercola describes a protocol for eradicating the germs associated with rheumatic diseases. Other appendices discuss supplements, nutrition for patients with chronic illnesses, and websites where more information can be found.
If I have a complaint about Rheumatoid Arthritis, it is that there is so much good information in it that I had to highlight or dog-ear nearly every page in my copy. Russ Farris, co-author of The Potbelly Syndrome: How Common Germs Cause Obesity, Diabetes, And Heart Disease

The infection connection
Not really that useful.Info seems redundant and wasn't really helpful to me.

Medical information in layman's terminology
This book should be read by everyone who suffers from a chronic illness of any kind. The data is well documented and most definitely is an "outside of the box" approach.

infection connection
the best culmination of concepts on mycrozyma or protid activity in regards to all illness.

LIFESAVER BOOK OF HOPE AND UNDERSTANDING
SOME BOOKS CHANGE LIVES.THIS IS ONE OF THEM!SOME BOOKS SAVE LIVES.THIS IS ONE OF THEM! DR. POEHLMANN'S BOOK IS LIKE A LIFE JACKET OFFERED TO EACH AND EVERY ONE OF US, THE MILLIONS WHO FEEL LIKE WE ARE DROWNING IN A SEA OF SICKNESS, MISUNDERSTANDING, MISDIAGNOSIS, INEFFECTIVE TREATMENT AND UNNECESSARY PROGRESSION TOWARD DISABILITY.

RA-THE INFECTION CONNECTION IS A PROFOUND, TIMELY BOOK OF HOPE AND UNDERSTANDING, A PRACTICAL AND PROMISING HEALTHY GUIDE FOR THE PREVENTION AND TREATMENT OF RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS AND OTHER AFFLICTIONS WHICH DISABLE AND CAN KILL.

THE TITLE SAYS IT ALL, EXPLAINS IT ALL.NOW, IT IS A MATTER OF LISTENING, OF CARRYING THROUGH WITH THE HEALING PLAN OF ACTION.
IT'S TOUGH TO TACKLE AND PROMOTE A CONTROVERSIAL HEALTHCARE PLAN, YET DR. POEHLMANN TOOK THE RISK.CHANGING TIMES, CHANGING ATTITUDES, ADVOCATION FOR TREATING THE CAUSE OF RA, NOT MERELY THE SYMPTOMS-INDEED, THIS IS THE BOOK TO GET THE JOB DONE, TO HELP RHEUMATOID SUFFERERS FIGHT THEIR HORRENDOUS BATTLES, TO WIN THEIR WAR AGAINST DISEASE.

DR. POEHLMANN IS A TRUE WARRIOR FOR WELLNESS.THANK GOD FOR BRAVE SOLDIERS WHO NEVER SURRENDER!

ETERNAL THANKS DOC,
GG, AN RA SURVIVOR ... Read more

Product Description
Rheumatoid arthritis is an auto-immune disease affecting one in 100 people in which the body attacks itself, leading to inflammation and damage to the joints. Other organs can also be affected, and further symptoms include fatigue and depression. This upbeat book explains clearly the nature and symptoms of RA, possible causes, diagnosis, and treatment, including psychological aspects, medication, pain management, physiotherapy, and surgery. Lifestyle issues are also explored, along with practical tips on how to make life more manageable and comfortable. The book ends with a positive look at ongoing research and future treatments. ... Read more

Product Description
This book enables you to understand more about Rheumatoid Arthritis and the medication involved. Find out how to: Reduce your pain and use joint protection techniques - Benefit from exercise and posture - Relax and manage stress - Adapt to changes in your working and leisure life. Includes an A-Z of well being and a list of useful resourcesHow to manage your Rheumatoid Arthritis by becoming an expert patient. This book will enable you to: Understand more about Rheumatoid Arthritis and the medication involved; Reduce the pain that you experience; Use joint protection techniques; Appreciate the importance of exercise and good posture; Relax and manage your stress; Adapt to the changes in your working and leisure life; Achieve a positive outlook There's also an A-Z of well being and a list of useful resources. ... Read more

Book Description
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease, which affects 1% of the world's population. Patients with RA not only have a progressive and debilitating disease and severe functional impairment, but can also experience a reduced life expectancy due to frequent involvement of the major organ systems. This new edition of Rheumatoid Arthritis charts the profound changes in research and patientmanagement that have taken place over the last 5 years. Developments in molecular biology have dramatically increased insight into the inflammatory and destructive pathways of this complex disease. Over half a million patients have been successfully treated with biologic therapy and advances in imaging techniques have allowed increasingly early detection of disease onset. Rheumatoid factor is no longer the unchallenged gold standard autoantibody but has competition from the anti-citrulline antibodies. Environmental factors influencing both susceptibility and progression have been sought, and smoking has emerged as a powerful factor. Steady progress in genetics is finally being made and one day it may be possible to predict RA before onset of symptomatic disease.It is against this backdrop of dynamic developments that the new edition of Rheumatoid Arthritis publishes. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Like Reading Your Life
This book made me feel like the author was standing behind me telling all about my life. She really makes you understand Rheumatoid Arthritis even if you don't have it. She was able to make me feel like I am not alone. The medical information she writes about really makes sense to even the lay person. If you or your loved one has Rheumatoid Arthritis, this is the book to get them. ... Read more

Book Description
A practical question-and-answer guide addressing the most common concerns about rheumatoid arthritis.

Rheumatoid arthritis is one of the most common forms of arthritis, affecting nearly 7 million people in the United States. This debilitating disease of the immune system affects four times as many women as men.

Written by a leading expert on autoimmune diseases, this book is an invaluable resource that answers the most frequently asked questions about rheumatoid arthritis. It educates the reader on what the disease is, its causes, symptoms, and treatments, including revolutionary new drugs, herbs, and conventional remedies. Bibliography. Index. ... Read more

Book Description
This book has been created for patients who have decided to make education and research an integral part of the treatment process. Although it also gives information useful to doctors, caregivers and other health professionals, it tells patients where and how to look for information covering virtually all topics related to juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (also Juvenile arthritis; Juvenile chronic arthritis; Juvenile chronic polyarthritis; Juvenile polyarthritis; Still disease; Still's disease), from the essentials to the most advanced areas of research. The title of this book includes the word official. This reflects the fact that the sourcebook draws from public, academic, government, and peer-reviewed research. Selected readings from various agencies are reproduced to give you some of the latest official information available to date on juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. Given patients' increasing sophistication in using the Internet, abundant references to reliable Internet-based resources are provided throughout this sourcebook. Where possible, guidance is provided on how to obtain free-of-charge, primary research results as well as more detailed information via the Internet. E-book and electronic versions of this sourcebook are fully interactive with each of the Internet sites mentioned (clicking on a hyperlink automatically opens your browser to the site indicated). Hard-copy users of this sourcebook can type cited Web addresses directly into their browsers to obtain access to the corresponding sites. In addition to extensive references accessible via the Internet, chapters include glossaries of technical or uncommon terms.Download Description
This sourcebook has been created for patients who have decided to make education and Internet-based research an integral part of the treatment process. Although it gives information useful to doctors, caregivers and other health professionals, it also tells patients where and how to look for information covering virtually all topics related to juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, from the essentials to the most advanced areas of research. The title of this book includes the word official. This reflects the fact that the sourcebook draws from public, academic, government, and peer-reviewed research. Selected readings from various agencies are reproduced to give you some of the latest official information available to date on juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. Following an introductory chapter, the sourcebook is organized into three parts. PART I: THE ESSENTIALS; Chapter 1. The Essentials on Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis: Guidelines; Chapter 2. Seeking Guidance; Chapter 3. Clinical Trials and Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis; PART II: ADDITIONAL RESOURCES AND ADVANCED MATERIAL; Chapter 4. Studies on Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis; Chapter 5. Books on Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis; Chapter 6. Multimedia on Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis; Chapter 7. Periodicals and News on Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis; Chapter 8. Physician Guidelines and Databases; Chapter 9. Dissertations on Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis; PART III. APPENDICES; Appendix A. Researching Your Medications; Appendix B. Researching Alternative Medicine; Appendix C. Researching Nutrition; Appendix D. Finding Medical Libraries; Appendix E. Questions and Answers about Arthritis Pain; Appendix F. More on Rheumatic Diseases and Arthritis; ONLINE GLOSSARIES; JUVENILE RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS GLOSSARY; INDEX. Related topics include: Juvenile arthritis, Juvenile chronic arthritis, Juvenile chronic polyarthritis, Juvenile polyarthritis, Still disease, Still's disease. ... Read more

Book Description
...can be miraculous for rheumatoid arthritis sufferers.-- Health & Healing, Tomorrow's Medicine Today ... Read more

Customer Reviews (32)

Quality and Quantity of Life is looking up
This text provided my family and I an alternative treatment outlook for the future of an RA suffer. At my age, 28 the toxic medication on offer from my specialist wasn't appealing. We were able to read and understand the disease better, it's long term impact on our lives and hopefully have found a safe effective alternative treatment. We have nothing to loose.

I Got My Life Back, Too!
I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis at 33 years old. I grew up very healthy and active. In September 2005, I had my second child, a girl. I was 32 years old. During both pregnancies I had hyperemesis gravidarum, which means extreme nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. In October and November of 2005, I had two root canals (I ruined my teeth from vomiting during pregnancy). My immune system was down because I had just had a baby (the immune system lowers as to not reject the fetus), I was getting very little sleep with a newborn, and I had just had two root canals, the perfect entrance for bacteria. In December 2005, the balls of my feet began to ache. By the beginning of January 2006, I knew something was wrong. I did some investigating later and found out I had a great aunt with Scleroderma and three second cousins with RA. There are also a lot of allergies and asthma in my family, indicating a pattern of hypersensitive immune systems. (I always thought I was the lucky one in the family who didn't get allergies. It seems my allergies have just manifested themselves in a different manner.) About a week later, I was in extreme pain and I had read a lot about RA and knew that my symptoms matched. I referred myself to a local rheumatologist. My pain had spread to over 35 joints. I was having trouble lifting my newborn baby, opening jars, turning car keys, fastening infant seats, putting on my 4-year-old's socks, brushing my teeth, washing my hair, etc. I required at least 12 hours of sleep at night, and was still tired during the day. I was very depressed. I would cry every day, usually out of frustration because I could not undo my seat belt or put on my son's socks for school. Everything that I read said this disease was progressive, degenerative and crippling. I could not imagine it getting any worse than it was! I was referred to [...] by other RA patients. I read and read. I contacted my local area contact. I told him I was considering starting Enbrel the following week. He e-mailed back that I had a choice to make. I could give antibiotics a try and possibly go into remission or get significantly better; or I could go on potentially harmful immune suppressors, which would usually eventually wear off and I would have to jump from one drug to the next. And what would happen if I ran out of drugs to try? He said there is hope in AP. With AP, I had the hope of getting better. With the other drugs, I was merely suppressing the symptoms, not getting to the root cause of the illness. I ordered the book The New Arthritis Breakthrough and started posting on the roadback board. It made much more sense than the conventional autoimmune wisdom which stated that: One random day my immune system just up and decided to attack my joints for no reason at all. I finally came to the conclusion that I did not want to just suppress my pain and symptoms. I wanted my life back. I knew that in the past I always tended to get side effects of medications and I thought I would probably be one of the 1% of people who got lymphoma, TB, or severe infection from the biologics. I knew I wanted to be alive to watch my kids grow up. It was not like I was NOT going to be treating my RA; I would be treating my RA with an American College of Rheumatology approved DMARD. I decided to try the antibiotic protocol. It was the best decision I have ever made. Within 1-2 months of being on Zithromax, the depression and fatigue had disappeared. Within 3 months, I felt 60% better. After 10 months, I was 98% back to my normal self. 18 months later, and I have only one finger that will not bend all the way into a fist (it is about an inch away). My rheumatoid factor has dropped from 282 to 28 and my CCP has dropped from it's all-time high of 153 to 55. My sed rate is 1.0 and my CRP is .3. I walk two miles a day. My feet, neck, knees, ankles, and shoulders do not hurt at all! I thank God, Dr. Thomas McPherson Brown, Henry Scammell,and The Road Back Foundation for giving me my life back!

The New Arthritis Breakthrough: etc. by Henry Scammel
This book gives a very clear and concise description of the Marshall Protocol, an anti-biotic based relief program for Auto-Immune disease.

I have given it to my family Doctor to read and he is convinced.

I am starting the protocol as soon as I have a couple of tests undertaken to check for suitability.

The New Arthritis Breakthrough: The Only Medical Therapy Clinically Proven to Produce Long-term Improvement and Remission ...
An excellent book for newly diagnosed people with RA who are unaware of alternative treatment available using anti-biotics, instead of current medications perscribed by mainstream doctors, which I believe are destructive to the human body.

Unfortunately doctors do not feel free to administer anti-biotic treatment because it is not approved, yet they can administer drugs that have destructive side effects. I did not feel I could survive the strong drugs being used as the standard of care due to my age. Luckily I found this alternative that has given me hope. Although I have just begun treatment I am experiencing improvement.

The book also has information on The Road Back Foundation, a resource for people affected by arthritis and other diseases.

Great information on Dr. Brown's protocol and beyond
Great information on using tetracyclines for what seems to be "auto-immune" disorders but in reality are mycoplasma infestations. Addresses hard to find topics like whether using tetracyclines for extended periods of times is harmful (it's not) and why, the role of inflammation in the rheumatoid arthritis and why the use of anti-inflammatory drugs doesn't work in a long run, also describes a new approach to very serious cases of arthritis in which corticosteroids are given for a limited time to help lift the walls of inflammation and let tetracycline in for a rapid improvement.

The book doesn't talk much about other auto-immune diseases even though Lupus is mentioned in the title. The book is very readable but does have a bit too much water in it. ... Read more

Product Description
If you were diagnosed with a crippling chronic illness in the prime of your life and everything that was considered normal vanished whom would you turn to? The person you would turn to is me, Linda D'Angelo because I have been suffering from rheumatoid arthritis for over ten years.The book you would purchase is my book "Failure Is Not An Option, Thriving with Rheumatoid Arthritis" because my book is the story of a woman who understands her illness and found the courage and strength of character to step up, face her fears and ascertain her desired outcome, thriving with rheumatoid arthritis. Whether you are newly diagnosed with this illness or a veteran wondering whether you will ever experience a normal life again, my advice to you is "fight" and "fight hard" because your quality of life and the lives of those close to you are in jeopardy.Life presents you with a number of challenges, these challenges can sometimes be unexpected, undeserved and beyond your control.Therefore it is important to remember that life is never about the challenge itself, it is about you, and how you choose to handle the challenge. ... Read more

Book Description
"This splendid volume is easily understandable, uses real-life situations as examples and is far more up-to-the-minute than other such books. From sexuality to surgery, it offers practical and science-based advice."--Charles M. Plotz, M.D., Editor-in-Chief, Rheuma21st.com

Your complete guide to understanding and living well with rheumatoid arthritis

If you or someone close to you suffers from rheumatoid arthritis (RA), this book is a powerful tool you don't want to be without. Two of the authors are physicians at the Hospital for Special Surgery, one of the nation's oldest and best orthopedic research hospitals. Its purpose is to arm you with the information you need to take charge of your disease management and work with your doctors to develop a treatment program that's right for your lifestyle and life goals.

In plain English, the authors demystify rheumatoid arthritis-its causes, progression, and various effects on the human body-and decode the often perplexing language that doctors use to describe RA and its diagnosis and treatment. They explain the various treatment and pain management options available to you and ways to discuss them with your doctor. The authors also include the true stories of RA patients whose tales offer encouragement and powerful insights for dealing with the difficult psychological and lifestyle issues RA sufferers face. Their expert advice and guidance covers a range of topics of vital concern to people affected by RA, including:

• Old, new, and emerging drug therapies, including gold, corticosteroids, and immunosuppressants
• Analgesics and anti-inflammatories
• Alternative treatment strategies
• Nutrition, diet, and exercise for RA
• Vitamins and supplements, including glucosamine and Evening Primrose oil
• Managing crucial lifestyle issues such as sports, travel, and sex
• Pregnancy and RA
• Alleviating depression and pain
• Surgical options, including joint replacement therapy

Customer Reviews (2)

Rheumatism ArthritisHandbook by Paget et al.
This is an excellent reference work for the arthritic ailments.
The authors indicate some basic principles for patients to
follow in pursuing a successful treatment regimen:
1- be well informed about the disease and the process of disease
2- have a good rapor with the respective physicians on the case
3- assemble a medical team
4- select team members of physicians carefully

There are some supportive therapies for the arthritic diseases.
These are exercise, heat and cold application, as well as,
acupuncture. Surgery may be a good resort for hip, knee or
hand repair. Stretching exercises are helpful in achieving
a wider range of motion in the disease process. A good diet
consists of approximately 55% carbs; 20% protein and 25% fats.
Fish oil-particularly omega 3 can be helpful in dealing with
physical fatigue and joint tenderness.The work is written
for the layperson. It is easy to understand and apply.

An Excellent Comprehensive Book on RA
I was diagnosed with RA recently after suffering with its symptoms for probably 8 years. I knew nothing about Rheumatoid Arthritis before this and never even considered it a cause of my pains. I am currently under the care of a Rheumatologist at the Hosiptal for Special Surgery. This book has been a tremdous help in conjunction with my doctor in understanding the problem.

The book takes a very thorough look at the Rheumatoid Arthritis - diagnosing it, what kind of questions to ask, causes, treatments, therapy, useful outside resources, and examples of others with RA.

A very helpful book. ... Read more

Book Description
Jointman, A Survival Guide for Rheumatoid Arthritis, by Robert B.W. Morton B.A., B.E.D. is a self-help book as well as a personal testimonial, as the author describes his medical history relating to this debilitating disease, from initial diagnosis, to prescribed medications and their side-effects, to surgery, and resulting post-surgical trauma, stress and depression. This book takes a positive stance, as medical, emotional and spiritual concerns are all addressed, and solutions are revealed. Some areas included in the 14 chapters are: Identifying RA, Debilitation and Diagnosis, Treatment, Surgery, Stress, Nutrition and Weight Control, The 4 Keys to Spiritual Healing, Support Groups, and Surviving Tomorrow. Robert Morton is a teacher and formerly a skier, hockey player, varsity fencer at the University of Western Ontario, a drummer, long-distance runner, artist and draftsman. All these skills and talents were visciously stripped away one afternoon, as arthritis lashed out and cut Rob down, eventually rolling him into a stiff immovable ball. After struggling with all the various hardships associated with this disease over the next 22 years, Rob has develpoed solutions and strategies to defend against the darker side of arthritis, and his coping skills have afforded him a positive outlook, and a future that includes returning to work, and living a complete, full life. Jointman includes a forward by Dr.Sharon Le Clercq, a leading rheumatologist, and Mr.Morton's doctor for over 10 years. Dr. LeClercq became Rob's confidant and assisted greatly in the final compilation of this unique manuscript. Any person suffering from arthritis and looking for answers, will greatly appreciate this first-hand view of the disease, and associated coping strategies. Jointman is a winner in every sense of the word. ... Read more

Book Description

This collection of the general work of 18 authors deals with most of the problems of osteo-articular pathology of the foot and ankle in Rheumatoid Arthritis. The extensive and detailed information about the diagnostic and the therapeutic problems of the disease are included. The essential data of pathomechanics are exposed and discussed. The chapters on pathology and therapeutics are approached through a clinical framework, accompanied by multiple photographs and offer classical and recent references. The topic of foot orthoses and shoes is easily understandable. The main notions on ankle prostheses are particularly exposed and discussed. The chapters are so clearly presented that they will interest non-specialists and specialists alike. In some of the areas of the treatment an extremely experienced author offers his point of view on the indications of the therapeutic approaches. This book will appeal to all specialists concerned by the knowledge of the foot and ankle in Rheumatoid Arthritis, whatever their areas of practice.