|
Published:
June 15, 2022

Arthritis For Dummies

Overview

An easy-to-understand in-depth look at of one of the most common medical conditions in the world

If you’re one of the 350 million people around the world who suffer from arthritis, you know how challenging it can be to live with it. And if you care for someone who has arthritis, you know how difficult it is to help your loved one live comfortably with the disease.

Arthritis For Dummies was written for you. In it, you’ll find no-nonsense guidance based on the latest arthritis research, the straight goods on medications old and new, and up-to-date info on over 40 forms of the disease, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, gout, and more. You’ll also find:

  • Ten new cutting-edge treatments for arthritis
  • A complete rundown of medications for arthritis, including the very latest ones
  • Diet strategies to help combat arthritis pain and improve joint function
  • The best exercises for building stronger joints and easing arthritis pain
  • Biomechanical techniques to help ward off joint damage

An essential handbook for all who suffer from arthritis, as well as their caregivers, friends, and family, Arthritis For Dummies is the all-in-one handbook that shows you how to control arthritis symptoms, deal with chronic pain, assemble a top-notch healthcare team, and do much to help others who suffer from the disease.

Read More

About The Author

Nadine Taylor is a registered dietitian and contributing editor to the bestseller The Arthritis Cure. She is also author of Green Tea: The Natural Secret to a Healthier Life.

Barry Fox, PhD, is a best-selling writer who has authored or co-authored 20 health books and over 160 health-related articles. His works include the New York Times #1 bestseller, The Arthritis Cure, and many more.

Sample Chapters

arthritis for dummies

CHEAT SHEET

Arthritis could manifest as anything from a mildly annoying creak in a joint to debilitating pain; and while there's no cure for arthritis, there are techniques to manage the condition.This Cheat Sheet offers advice on talking with your doctor about alternative therapies for arthritis, identifying false claims for alternative therapies, using supplements to ease arthritis symptoms, what to ask your doctor when considering surgery, and how to save money on prescription drugs.

HAVE THIS BOOK?

Articles from
the book

Arthritis could manifest as anything from a mildly annoying creak in a joint to debilitating pain; and while there's no cure for arthritis, there are techniques to manage the condition.This Cheat Sheet offers advice on talking with your doctor about alternative therapies for arthritis, identifying false claims for alternative therapies, using supplements to ease arthritis symptoms, what to ask your doctor when considering surgery, and how to save money on prescription drugs.
When you have arthritis, you have some days when you just don't feel like going to work. But you may not have the luxury of staying home every time you have a flare, especially if they happen often. That's why it's important to simplify your tasks at work, just like you did at home, to make them as easy on your joints and as energy-efficient as possible.
If you think you have arthritis, get the best chance for help by being fully prepared for your first doctor's appointment. Diagnosing arthritis — or any other medical condition — is easier if your doctor has your full medical history, including: Any accidents or injuries that you've sustained Diseases that run in your family Illnesses you've had (especially recently) Other problems, including recent weight loss, depression, sleep disturbances, aches and pain, skin changes, and fatigue Before your talk to a doctor about arthritis, you should also consider compiling a list of questions you want answered.
Nearly 50 percent of those suffering from osteoarthritis don't know what kind of arthritis they have and therefore can't make good decisions about their treatment. Say your knee hurts. The first time that you visit your doctor complaining of the pain, he will put you through the standard round of interviews, examinations, and tests.
The idea that food can cause or relieve arthritis isn't new. More than 200 years ago, English doctors prescribed cod-liver oil to treat gout and rheumatism. More recently, some health writers have insisted that arthritics should eat or not eat specific foods. The debate is in full swing. Do certain foods cause arthritis?
The high cost of prescription drugs can be a real problem if you have a chronic condition like arthritis that requires a steady supply of medication. Luckily, you have several options for lowering the cost of your arthritis meds: Review your medications and see which can be eliminated or replaced with over-the-counter varieties.
Performing the proper exercises on a regular basis is a vital part of almost any arthritis treatment program. But to gain maximum benefits, you also need to be aware of proper exercise techniques, and always make sure that you're completely warmed up before exercising. A warm bath or shower can help, but you should also do some light cardio or strengthening exercises until you break a sweat.
For thousands of years, healers have known that the "laying on of hands" can have a powerful therapeutic effect on the body. This type of therapy doesn't necessarily cure the disease, but it can help relieve pain, increase vital circulation, ease mental stress, relax tensed muscles, increase overall relaxation, and aid the body in its struggle to rebuild itself.
The causes of arthritis are numerous — and some of them are still unknown. Scientists say that the development of joint pain, joint stiffness, and joint swelling can be traced to several contributing factors, including the following: Heredity:Scientists have discovered that the genetic marker HLA-DR4 is linked to rheumatoid arthritis; so, if you happen to have this gene, you're more likely to develop the disease.
Arthritis can strike anyone at any time, and the warning signs easily can be confused with conditions that don't require medical attention. Almost everyone has had an ache or pain at some time or has overextended himself or herself physically, but it's important to know what is minor and temporary, and what may be serious and long term.
At least 40 percent of arthritis patients manage arthritis pain by using an alternative therapy, such as acupuncture, magnet or copper bracelets, and herbal supplements. Despite this large percentage of patients who use alternative therapies, however, about three-quarters of them haven't told their physicians what they're doing.
https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6630d85d73068bc09c7c436c/69195ee32d5c606051d9f433_4.%20All%20For%20You.mp3

Frequently Asked Questions

No items found.