Living with Rheumatoid Arthritis

by Tammi L. Shlotzhauer, James L. McGuire, Carol M. Ziminski (Foreword)

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 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.

Genres: Health, Nonfiction, Reference

312 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 1993

Reviews

[Windypicnic · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book was rated highly by those with RA across multiple platforms, so I bought it and damn, am I disappointed. The (American-centric) explanations regarding the disease itself, its courses and manifestations, as well as standard medicines were all what you'd expect. The psychology, alternative medicine, and disability elements were frequently condescending and I didn't appreciate the emphasis on "not sweating the big things" (if I can't worry about having a life-changing disease what the hell am I allowed to worry about?)

However, my dissatisfaction didn't reach a head until the disability section when this choice line was shared; "We stress the fact that persons with RA are differently abled, rather than disabled..." Thanks for that slice of ableist bullshit!

Overall, this is an extremely disappointing book that doesn't offer anything you can't find in a better, more patient-focused format, through online RA resources. Definitely look elsewhere if you're newly diagnosed.

[Julie Barrett · Rating 4 out of 5]

Living with rheumatoid arthritis BY Shlotzhauer_ Tammi L
Lots of information about how you get it, how to help treat it and which version of the disease you have.
Didn't realize so much depends on the environment and DNA. Didn't realize also that teeth problems are related to this disease.
So many resources, what a treasure.
I received this book from National Library Service for my BARD (Braille Audio Reading Device).

[Lesley Watson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this book cover to cover as a way of making myself informed about my diagnosis without going down the often-terrifying rabbit holes one can easily fall into online. It has a lot of information--sometimes feels like the it goes too deep, other times not deep enough--but it would be impossible to tailor a book to the level of depth each individual patient desires. I've kept it on my shelf and referenced it often when I have new symptoms come up or new questions about drugs.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

An incredibly helpful guide that I should have read a lot sooner. A lot of tips, ideas, and considerations for those with R.A. and those who have someone with it in their life.

I do think that this is geared more towards older adults, and not someone in their early twenties. I kind of wish that there was more about navigating school/college with R.A.

As a young woman I also found the section on pregnancy, childbirth both brief and vague and lackluster. I was also suprised that there was nothing to be said about birth control either other than it is important not to become pregnant on certain medications.

[Carla-Ann Hospedales · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent resource for newly diagnosed persons

This book offered valuable insight into RA. I would definitely recommend this book to persons who may have recently been diagnosed with RA. It is quite easy to become overwhelmed by well wishers citing the most recent fad/home remedies, medications, treatment options and other related twists and turns on this RA journey.

I feel more grounded and hopeful after reading this book.

[Marian Wainwright · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you believe rheumatoid arthritis is a simple disease, think again. The impact of RA on the body can be insidious and deadly. While being informed won’t change the course of the disease, understanding its complexity may help navigate its progression. This book reveals the devil in the details and informs the possibilities that one may encounter while living with RA. I highly recommend this informative and easy to read guide.

[Erin · Rating 3 out of 5]

I would've rated this book a 4 if it were based on the first two thirds of the material. That material was very helpful and easy to read through in a lengthy book. The last third dragged on quite a bit in the medications section, then was clearly biased and attempting to steer the reader in a traditional medicine only route when it came to nutrition, supplements or alternative medicine approaches.

[Robin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Reading a number of books on RA, this one is between a 3 and 4. It begins with detailed medical information about the causes of RA and bones and muscles--it was so technical I almost stopped reading. But reading beyond that reveals some helpful information on care, attitude, nutrition, exercises, medications, etc., that is helpful.

[Chris · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is informative and trustworthy. It's a must for newly diagnosed people.

[Delia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting.

[Charlie Kircher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent evidence based review for newly diagnosed patients and families.

[Jen · Rating 4 out of 5]

A bit outdated re: available biologics, but really informative, and will be good to have on hand later on if things progress.

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really helpful for someone newly diagnosed. The right combination of enough medical information without too much detail that it becomes overwhelming.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good overview of the concerns that come with a rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis. A good starting point and reference for research on treatment.

[Sigo Paolini · Rating 2 out of 5]

I found it vague outside of the stretching / exercises which you can get anywhere. Based on the ratings I thought this would have some solid and helpful information. Nope.

[M.A. Arana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great guide on RA. Provides different methods to help treat and alternative ways to help heal.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

A comprehensive book dealing with symptoms, how to deal with them and details about the various medications available. Many questions are answered for those dealing with RA.

[melissa · Rating 2 out of 5]

The drugs in this book are totally outdated. I can't believe this thing is still for sell! With the speed at which new treatments for RA are being discovered this book either needs to be updated, pulled off the shelf, come with a free masseuse for life or all of the above. And some hazelnut gelato. Even if the medication section was completely removed there is nothing in here that I didn't learn from my doctor or internet research. The two stars are for the brief chapter on how friends and family may react to your diagnosis. "Oh, you have arthritis? So does my grandma!" and "Well at least you don't have cancer! are two of my personal favorites.

[G · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good overview of RA and treatments available. Reading while in pain made a tad annoyed with her overly positive approach. No, sorry, I am unable to positive think myself through a flare up. Her chapter on alternative theories left me a little eh as well. It wasn't really clear if she was promoting them or just including them in the name of fairness. I sort of felt like she ended up being wishy washy and putting things like massage and acupuncture on the same level as homeopathic remedies. But a good read that helped me prepare for my specialist appointment.

[Liz · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is well worth your time if you have RA. As some people have noted, it's a bit outdated in terms of scientific developments and available medications. But the psychological part of it, the diet recommendations, and the frank, honest approach the books takes to its discussions are all still spot-on. Read this, not WebMD.

[Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a good book for people who have RA. I have found it helpful. It gives you exercises to help reduce joint damage and increase mobility. It also gives you some ideas on ways to help inflammation with dietary changes.

[Patricia Kubus · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very informative. Well liked.

[Barb · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some of the information is outdated but there is still much good information to be obtained from reading.

[Sara · Rating 3 out of 5]

Informative

[Varun Kapila · Rating 5 out of 5]

very precise clear and knowledgeable

Explains all aspects very simply. Answers many of the why questions.
Recommended as a handbook for reference for ra patients.

[Melinda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very informative and a great starting point if recently diagnosed.

[Marian · Rating 5 out of 5]

An invaluable resource: well-organized, answers to questions in between doctor visits, eminently practical advice.

[Jacqueline Spreitzer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great resource

Very helpful and hopeful. If you are new to RA keep this book as a great resource. Very easy to read with a good layout.

[Jody · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent source for RA information

[Lori · Rating 4 out of 5]

I keep reading sections. Great reminders and helps you understand.