Product Description
Dr. Goldenberg's book offers hope for the million Americans who suffer from chronic illnesses like fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome. It can help both patients and health professionals.It has a refreshingly sympathetic point of view."For those of us with chronic illness, the first step to feeling better is to let go of our need for cause; our need to blame someone or something for our illness." ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Right on Point
I have FMS.I have intellectualized this syndrome to death.But, this book calls into play the need to emotionally and spiritually cope with chronic pain, while weeding through all the medical throeries,claims and proposed treatments.

Sound advice from an expert.
Dr Goldenberg takes a controversial and complex subject often innundated with old wives tales and gives it a sound medical basis. His own dealings with fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue as well as chronic pain has made this author sensitive to the needs of the person diagnosed with this condition. It is really a must read for anyone with chronic pain and depression. Dr Goldenberg doesn't speak condescendingly. As one of the named "best doctors in America" and Head of Rheumatolgy at the Newton Hospital in Massachusetts, his knowledge and expertise and the thousands of patients in his care with these disorders, makes this book absolutely imperative for sufferers.

Too personal
I believe that this book was written with good intentions, however, Ithink the book was focused too much on his personal experiences.Thatwould be fine if you wanted a comparison, but anyone with FMS, like myself,knows that each individual case is different.I felt as though I wasreading a combination of a second grade book report, (with too many littleside comments like this) and a medical report.I would prefer something inbetween.The effort was there, that is about all.It was just too much ofa diary format to be extraordinarily helpful.(And I am a patient of Dr.Goldenberg)He is the one who diagnosed me.

HAVE A CHRONIC ILLNESS ? - TAKE HEART-READ THIS BOOK!
A most dedicated doctor provided this book for my reading.
If you have sought a realistic approach to living with a chronic illness (emphasis on fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue), look no longer, here is your practical guide.
What sets this book apart is its dual perspective:the author is both physician and patient!
For providing education, understanding, and management of chronic illness in a format easily understood- my sincere thanks, Dr. Goldenberg! ... Read more

Product Description
Labeled "the mystery malady of the 1990s," chronic fatigue accounts for millions of visits to the doctor each year--yet many more people with the condition never seek medical help. If you have chronic fatigue this book is for you!

In Chronic Fatigue: Your Complete Exercise Guide, you will find a clear description of chronic fatigue and chronic fatigue syndrome, essentials on designing an exercise program to fit your capabilities, guidelines for safe exercise, four complete exercise programs, and a unique Health Points System to help you maintain motivation and gauge your progress.

Chronic Fatigue: Your Complete Exercise Guide offers a safe and effective exercise program that sets you on a lifelong course of reduced fatigue and improved health. Use it as a basis for discussion with your doctor and as a guide to help you work moderate exercise into your daily routine.

This book is part of The Cooper Clinic and Research Institute Fitness Series--the first series that provides a complete and sensible exercise program to overcome or reduce a chronic medical condition. Other topics in the series include arthritis, diabetes, breathing disorders, and stroke. Dr. Neil F. Gordon, the series author, is widely regarded as a leading medical authority on exercise and health. He is the director of exercise physiology at the internationally renowned Cooper Institute for Aerobics Research in Dallas, Texas. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Very definitely NOT for people with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
If you have been diagnosed with CFS--aka CFIDS (Chronic Fatigue and Immune Dysfunction Syndrome) or ME (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis)--by a competent medical professional, don't even think of reading this book. On page three, the author states that "CFS is simply a chronic, unexplained fatigue that a person has had for more than 30 days." This definition not only flies in the face of the CDC criteria (six months of unexplained fatigue along with a host of other symptoms), it creates a veritable diagnostic nightmare. A gazillion things can cause a person to feel tired for a month. And if, in fact, it turns out that you really do have CFS, the advice given by Dr. Gordon to "fight back" with exercise will most assuredly make you worse.

One of the hallmark symptoms of CFS is exercise intolerance. In short, if you exercise you will feel much worse, usually within 24 hours. Not only will you feel worse, you will get worse. Why? Because, like polio, the cause for the fatigue is the disease process itself. According to Dr. Paul Cheney, one of the world's leading experts on CFS, people with this illness have a cellular defect at the mitochondrial level which leads to a deficit in ATP production. The result of this deficit is post-exercise exhaustion, malaise, and a general worsening of all symptoms. Cells which have spent their energy on exercise (among other things) simply can't recuperate. People with CFS are literally "running on empty."

If you don't have CFS then this book might do you some good. Otherwise, follow the advice given by bona fide CFS experts, and REST. ... Read more

Product Description
In the beginning, it was called the Yuppie Flu and Epstein-Barr Syndrome. One doctor calls it "AIDS minor."

12 million Americans have been stricken by it, yet few of us know the truth about the mysterious ailment that attacks the immune system and leaves its victims totally incapacitated.

Neenyah Ostrom, author of What Really Killed Gilda Radner? Frontline Reports on the Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Epidemic probes all the facts and answers questions about today's most misunderstood syndrome:

* What causes it?
* Is it contagious?
* Is it a form of AIDS?
* Can it lead to cancer?
* Can children get it?
* What is the government doing about it?
* And much more

Simple. Readable. Understandable. In depth. 50 Things You Should Know About the Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Epidemic gives you a quick but thorough look at a disease that threatens us all.

Exclusive update for this edition.
... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Awful book
This book is appalling - gives no proper evidence but instead ludicrous facts that are insensitive and inaccurate about CFS.

Read at your own risk...
This book contains SOME interesting, appropriate and correct information. However, the majority of it is out-dated and alarmist by nature. Based on my recent research, CFIDS is not the same thing as AIDS (although it appears she was hoping for more research funding if the association stuck), and it can not be caught from someone like the common cold. And I've never read that you can give it to your pet as is suggested in this book! I would not give this book to my family or friends to help them understand CFIDS.

You had better know about this condition BEFORE you venture into this book.

A good idea that's out-of-date
Neenyah Ostrom's "50 Things You Should Know abouy the Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Epidemic" contains some good information; unfortunately, even with the Update section, it's badly out-of-date. A number of the statements made as fact have since been disproven or contradicted by research done in the 10 years since the books publication, and a number the blanket statements made are just plain wrong. This book could needlessly frighten someone just diagnosed with CFS. A similar book(1-2 page sections, easy reading) with updated information and more careful wording would be helpful to the general public and to those of us with CFS(I've had it for 5 years now); there are many good books available with more accurate & helpful information. My favorite is Dr. David Bell's "The Doctor's Guide to Chronic Fatigue Syndrome"; while the section on possible causes is dated, the rest of the book is excellent: thoughtful, accurate, and helpful.

Making SENSE of the fibroyalgia/chronic fatigue epidemic
I found the author made perfect sense -- although I've heard criticisms that she is rather "radical."

She draws parallels between Fibromyalgia (FMS), chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and AIDS by discussingthe scientific evidence.There are common chemical markers in the blood,etc.

Fascinating reading! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

a useful guide to CFS
this is a very informative book written in a non-technical way. journalists (i am a freelance writer) will find lots of interesting background material here - the symptoms of CFS, various natural treatmentoptions as well as worldwide resources for further research. one veryhelpful feature in this book is the personal experience ofCFS patients,and this i found enlightening.i highly recommend this book. ... Read more

Product Description
Chronic fatigue has become one of the most frequently seen conditions by doctors across the United States. Part of Dr. Susan Lark's popular Self-Help Library series, CHRONIC FATIGUE is filled with facts about the causes, symptoms, and diagnosis of the disorder and how it differs from "normal" tiredness. Dr. Lark suggests self-help therapies of vitamins, revised diets, and yoga, along with medical information and drug treatments available. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Simple, comprehensive self-help, no strings attached.
I learned about this book from the women's health empowerment classic, Our Bodies, Ourselves.It's a pity that more people don't know about it.I recommend this self-help book for the following features:

1. It provides simple, straightforward explanations for the causes of chronic fatigue such as menopause, anemia, or depression.It also includes diagnostic tools for assessing what causes your symptoms.

2. It explains both "how come" and "how to" for a wide variety of approaches for treating chronic fatigue, including diet, herbal treatments, yoga, and acupressure.

3. Above all, its approach is refreshingly gimmick-free, and empowers the reader to make her own choices about her own treatment, rather than compel her to buy certain products or services.(That's right--I could not find a single toll-free number or website for a recommended vendor of supplements, yoga accessories, or relaxation tapes.And for most treatment methods described, no further purchases are necessary.)

The third point deserves special attention.These days people want to buy a quick fix for their health problems, and the market responds by serving up products, including other self-help books.Dr. Lark gives us exactly what is written on the cover: a "SELF-help book."In other words, Dr. Lark lays out all that you need to treat yourself, simply and comprehensively.I welcome Dr. Lark's approach, for it respects the reader's ability (and necessity) to motivate, understand, and treat herself.For once, after I read this book, I didn't feel like reaching for another health book.Everything I needed was already in my hands, including recommendations for further reading should I feel like picking up another book.

However, this book's strength for some may prove to be a weakness.Dr. Lark does not play the cheerleader to motivate her readers.Although it sports a soothing lavender cover, this book raises a formidable challenge to the reader--to make the considerable lifestyle changes necessary to overcome chronic fatigue.You may need to modify your diet drastically, make time to exercise, and otherwise change your life completely.Dr. Lark expects her readers to generate their own motivation.This is great for people who are ready to go, but not for people who need more intensive nurturing.

Dr. Lark writes in simple prose, yet does not talk down to her readers.She also does not resort to the inane repetition that seems to plague so many self-help books.Her words resonate with the wisdom of years of medical practice, and she comes across as a voice you can trust.I highly recommend this book. ... Read more

Product Description
This pocket guide provides day-to-day support for living with COPD by offering immediate reference to medical information and practical approaches for dealing with the physical, emotional, disease.Mark Jenkins focuses on ways to maintain optimal physical and mental health and lays out practical management strategies for living with COPD ... Read more

Product Description
Pain is the body's warning signal, a vital protective mechanism which alerts people that something is wrong. Chronic pain, however, serves no useful purpose and can trigger other physical and emotional problems. One person in three suffers some degree of chronic pain, and pain is the number one complaint registered in doctor's surgeries. Many are relying on daily use of pain-killers, but long-term use of medication can make the underlying problem worse. This book explains how to break the never-ending cycle of pain, medication and misery, so that pain is eased or even removed altogether. It is a guide to how pain may affect any part of the body allows the reader to discover what's right for him or her. Suggested treatments range from nutritional modification, herbal and homoeopathic approaches, to therapeutic touch, yoga and meditation. Other titles by Leon Chaitow include "Candida Albicans", "Asthma" and "Prostrate". ... Read more

Customer Reviews (11)

A window to what works for Chronic Fatigue
I am a physician who treats Chronic Fatigue Syndrome successfully and recommend this book to patients. Dr. Majid Ali is a very brilliant man and this book opens the door to looking at Chronic Fatigue and Fibromyalgia in a new and very treatable way.

Puts an end to the confusion about Chronic Fatigue
Dr. Ali is a brilliant doctor who understands chronic fatigue and the human "canaries".This book gave me peace and reassurance that non-drug treatments are the only way to treat this disease.There are so many options and drugs that medical doctor's may prescribe for chronic fatigue, only because they do not understand.This book eliminates the confusion surrounding those looking for answers. His explanations fit with all that I have experienced in my journey of healing. Thank you Dr. Ali for your wisdom and your willingness to share with the rest of us.

It really helped me
I have had ME/CFS for 13 years now and for the first 4 life was bad.I read everything I could and this book provided the best solutions for me!
Even so it took me 5 more years for things to work as it took me that long to find a doctor in New Zealand that agreed to try and help - finding a medic to help is the most differcult task.Even then we had to agree on a modified treatment but at least he read the book as well and it helped.
Dr Ali provides a detailed solution to the problem. The solutions offered will not apply to all but they will provide a strong basis to find your own

Turning Hopelessness into Hope!
As i turned the pages of this book, i felt that for the first time in 9years someone knew exactly how my body was functioning, and could explain why! This was such a relief. So many books are about personal experiences of the condition, but they do not answer any questions. This common sense presentation, backed with clinical research findings and a human face in holistic medicine, was so refreshing! Congratualtons on your pioneering work, would love to know if you have any recent findings or publications or how i can find a practioner in the UK that follows and treats patients in line with your philosophy. Reading the book, for the first time made me realise that Chronic means now and forever, a hard fact to swallow, however what it did do was show me a way of managing the symptoms so that i might have some quality of life in the future. From my lowest point when i contemplated ringing the Samaratians i picked up this book and it has given me Hope! Thank you so much

NO MORE DRUGS!
We CFS sufferers are going to change the face of medicine.This book explains why and how.If you have CFS you must stop going to any doctor who prescribes a drug to relieve your symptoms.You must stop going to an allergist who is still giving shots using the useless RAST test.They are just making your coffin more comfortable.Get to a holistic physician who knows that treating and reversing CFS requires nondrug nutrient therapies and effective allergy treatment.Parents should especially read this book to realize the extreme importance of identifying allergy problems in their children now - before they develop autoimmune disorders and emotional disturbances when they get older. ... Read more

Product Description
The first proven immune-boosting program for anyone who wants to stay well--or get well--safely and naturally.

Do you feel like you're locked in a battle with every cold, flu, sinus infection, or stomach virus that comes your way?
Does it take two or three antibiotics to treat an infection that used to be wiped out with ease?
Do you have young children who are plagued with runny noses, chronic ear infections, or sore throats?

If you answered yes to one or more of these questions, then Immunotics is for you.

Immunotics is the term Dr. Robert Rountree has coined to describe the powerful, heretofore unknown nutraceuticals that dramatically increase immune function and effectively battle bacteria and viruses. Immunotics is far more than just echinacea and vitamin C: It is the 21st-century answer to--not a replacement for--antibiotics. Immunotics doesn't just treat an existing infection, it prevents illness in the first place, without side effects or antibiotic resistance, by supercharging the immune system--nature's most potent weapon against disease.

From the "general program" for everybody to advice for the aging immune system; from the stressed-out soul to the fellow who succumbs to every respiratory infection; from kiddie sniffles to those at risk for cancer, Immunotics has the prescription.Amazon.com Review
A firm belief in their readers' intelligence guides coauthors Robert Rountree, M.D. (coauthor of Smart Medicine for a Healthier Child and A Parent's Guide to Medical Emergencies) and Carol Colman (coauthor of Stop Depression Now and The Antioxidant Miracle) through this clearly written guide, beginning with an eye-opening chapter on antibiotics and their consequences. As a result of their frequent misuse, due to doctors misprescribing them and patients not taking their full prescriptions, tougher bacteria are on the rise and weakened immune systems are increasingly common. While Rountree (the primary voice here) advocates the use of antibiotics and applauds their lifesaving abilities, he warns of their dark side. Rountree urges patients to take proactive steps toward better health by combining proper nutrition, vitamin supplements, a positive attitude, and an "immune friendly environment." He calls this powerful combination immunotics and builds a strong case for its implementation. Following a quick refresher on the human immune system, Rountree neatly describes recommended vitamins and herbs--from aloe vera and antioxidants to uva ursi and Western larch. His basic immunotics program outlines vitamin dose ranges for everyday use and answers questions regarding brands and drug interaction. He offers specialized programs for the elderly, parents with school-age children, those who deal with chronic asthma or gastrointestinal problems, and individuals at risk for cancer or heart disease. The chapters on the immunotic benefits of optimism and a safe environment never dig too deep; rather, they offer a smattering of intelligent reminders and a few helpful resources (including Dr. Martin Seligman's book, Learned Optimism: How to Change Your Mind and Your Life). --Liane Thomas ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Informative and Effective
I bought this book on a whim several years ago when I started working as a high school teacher and was concerned about my increased risk of getting sick.This book is well written, easy to understand and very informative.Rountree describes each supplement and its effects in detail and also has specific supplement regimines to treat certain ailments.I can say that I have not had a full-blown cold in the last three years.Although the supplements can be expensive, what he recommends truly work!Buy this book and you will not be disappointed and if you follow his regimine you will rarely be sick.

Excellent advice that works
I bought the hard cover edition of this book about a year ago because I am very prone to colds and sinus infections.I read it but did not follow the advice because you seemed to need to buy so much stuff.This past spring and summer (2001), I got an endless and particularly exhausting sinus infection.I was miserable and I remembered the book and went shopping for supplements.I warn you the advice is not cheap to follow, however, the results for me were excellent.It took a few weeks to see results but now I feel better than I have in years--greater physical and mental energy. I caught a chest cold (complete with green mucus) in September and threw it off very quickly (within a week) without antibiotics--a first for me.I would not part with my copy of the book. Olive leaf extract, NAC, coenzyme Q10, alkylglycerol etc.--I take a lot of supplements every day now but they work.I have a huge shelf full of health books and this is undoubtedly the best one that I own.I literally live by it now.

Real solutions!!!
I HIGHLY recommend this book!I had a sinus infection that would not clear up after three rounds of antibiotics-the most severe bout I've ever had, including losing my sense of smell. I followed the doc's reommendations for sinus infections, and within one week, my sense of smell began to return, and the infection finally cleared!Dr. Rountree is a genius!I am very grateful I decided to get this book-it is now my number one health reference.And NAC is a supplement that I will always keep on my shelf.Much gratitude to Dr. Rountree.

Solid MD information on being/staying healthy
The fact that Robert Rountree is an MD who has practiced for quite some time makes me reassured regarding his suggestions. It's also quite relevant not just for general immune function but specific illness issues one might have at present. The first section is a fascinating explanation of how our immune system functions in our body.I have been on his general adult suggested dose of CoEnzyme Q and Cholostrum for almost two months -- I believe I am starting to have energy at the end of the work day! This is a minor miracle as I started to feel tired about 17 years ago ...no thyroid issue, no diabetes ever id'd with repeated tests. I credit these changes to the CoQ and colostrum. This is truly worth the time and expense for the information!

Great book!!
I loved this book.It is full of wonderful ideas to improve your mental and physical health.I have started using a few of the ideas and have already noticed a difference.I highly recommend the book to anyone looking at alternative ways to improve your health. ... Read more

Product Description
A Compromised Generation reveals how seemingly benign elements of American culture are making millions of children chronically ill, disabled, or dysfunctional. Children are being diagnosed with illnesses such as autism, asthma, allergies, and ADHD at a breathtaking rate.The etiology of autism continues to confound mainstream medicine, yet parents, medical researchers, and healthcare practitioners dedicated to unraveling the mystery are beginning to put the pieces of the puzzle into place. They have found that environmental factors that cause autism are the same ones causing epidemics of ADHD, juvenile diabetes, asthma, gastrointestinal disorders, and many other chronic illnesses.Although the specific pathophysiology of each individual child's illness varies, they all have the same basic underlying causes. It is a "perfect storm" of environmental factors including decades of pharmaceutical over-usage, toxic or nutritionally anemic diets, excessive exposure to environmental toxins, specific American habits and lifestyles, and excessive or improperly administered vaccines. A Compromised Generation provides details on how this epidemic can be reversed and how to prevent more children from becoming ill, supplying evidence that children can recover from chronic illnesses, including autism, by altering their environmental influences and by stepping outside of the traditional western medical paradigm. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

The Real Story
A Compromised Generation is the first book to adequately address the complex issues involved in finding out why children today are suffering from chronic illness and learning disabilities. It is a sober analysis of the myriad factors that have contributed to the deterioration of our kids health. The piecemeal approach of most physicians toward addressing the problems of chronic illness are inadequate because allopathic medicine lacks a comprehensive view capable of seeing the connections between a multitude of symptoms. If you are frustrated by patchwork medicine that settles one problem only to create three more than read this book. If you intuit that something is not right with your childs chronic ear infections,allergies,poor digestion,eczema, diabetes,ADD,learning diabilities or autism than read this book. If you are unsatisfied with the diagnosis that it is purely genetic than read this book. If you are staring at a puzzle of seemingly seperate pieces and don't understand how they fit together than read this book you may find answers to help your child reach their highest potential.

Excellent Food for Thought

If your child has been diagnosed with autism, ADHD, allergies, asthma, celiac disease, learning or behavioral disorders, diabetes or any other chronic illness, you should read this book.

If you've ever gone to your child's doctor to complain about symptoms like chronic constipation, frequent fevers, chronic diarrhea, eczema, food sensitivities, chronic infections (ear, strep, vaginal, urinary, colds, etc.), colic, reflux, sensory problems, obsessive compulsive behaviors, or developmental delays, you should read this book.

The author explains how this generation of children is being affected by our american lifestyle. Until I read this book I never understood how food sensitivies and allergies can affect a child's behavior and brain.I didn't even realize how connected our brain is to what is going on in our gut. By reading this book, I understood the underlying factors compounding the problem and I was better able to advocate for my child. ... Read more

Product Description
A revealing look at the war on chronic pain, told in the words of pain sufferers and those who treat them.

"It's all in your head." "Learn to bear it." "That drug will make you a junkie." For the more than seventy-five million Americans affected by chronic pain, these are fighting words.

Despite extraordinary medical progress in recent years, millions of people, debilitated by the pain of incurable cancer, crippling arthritis, unremitting headaches, and a host of degenerative disorders, continue to suffer needlessly. Here, in their own words, are the stories of more than forty people whose lives are dictated by pain--patients, healthcare professionals, ethicists, social commentators, and scientists--shining a powerful searchlight on America's most misunderstood health problem.

The Truth About Chronic Pain reveals that pain is often ignored or under-treated due to widespread beliefs that it is a sign of weakness or unfounded fears that properly administered painkillers will cause addiction. As bureaucrats, doctors, and pharmacists become combatants in the War on Drugs, people in pain too often become unforeseen casualties.

The Truth About Chronic Pain provides what pain-sufferers need just as keenly as physical relief: the knowledge that they are not alone. The voices on these pages are an eloquent testament to individual courage and a powerful plea to medical institutions, political leaders, and insurance companies to implement effective solutions to the problem of pain. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

The Truth about Chronic Pain
This was an excellent book it helped me understand chronic pain from other peoples perspective and realize that I am not alone. It helped me understand the stigma in the medical profession and why doctors are so afraid of prescribing pain medication. How the government has interfered with our health care and made it harder for doctors to give pain medication to people in need. I would highly recommend this book.

book paid for by Purdue Pharma
Hoping to educate myself about points of view from the pain management field, I picked up this book at my library. For a "truthful" book, it lacks a bibliography, and was sponsored by the drug company that makes OxyContin.
This book does contain stories from pain patients, and opinions from different people, some of whom are physicians, so it does have some value; people looking for solid information with scientific references about prolonged pain medication and the risks of addiction will not find it in this book.

Telling but Lacking
While the book does explore the personal experiences of those suffering in pain adeptly, the author and contributors fail to include many sides of this complex issue of the way pain in our society is viewed and why it is so. I would say there is a limited scope at best. The book assumes for instance that addiction is a separate disease when in fact many patients in pain have co existing addiction problems past or present which clouds the issues inherent in prescribing opiates obviously. Further, there is growing acceptance currently for the theory that "disease" is a term applied to addiction too freely, apparently a trend not limited to outside of this book.Also Inote a glaring lack of references. I recall seeing similar discourse and material discussed in several separate magazine articles and web blogs unrelated to this author, pre dating the publishing of this book. Not all original premises but certainly a valiant attempt to have an all inclusive resource.

The Truth About Chronic Pain by Rosenfeld
This work documents specific instances of how people get into
chronic pain cycles and the actions required to manage
these conditions over the long term. There are many important
interviews with both patients and physicians which document
typical experiences and valuable corrective steps to combat
pain on an ongoing basis. This work would be a valuable
addition to any personal medical library.

should be required reading in med. school
I wish every doctor, psychiatrist and psychologist would read this amazing work. It should be a required text for medical school students. It is a painfully honest account of the medical profession and society's view of the chronic pain patient. Arthur and Isodore seem to have entered my mind and viewed the world as I see it. ... Read more

Product Description
This new revised edition tells sufferers everything they need to know about fibromyalgia (FM), but can't find anywhere else. It will assist and educate the layperson in recognizing and treating FM--what it is, how to detect it, and whom to consult about it, all in simple, straightforward language. The authors cover the gamut of exercise, diet, drugs, and emotional considerations. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

When Muscle Pain Won't Go Away
This book is specifically about Fibromyalgia.I learned of it many years ago and thought it was one of the best I'd ever read on the subject.Written for the layman and easy to understand.My sister-in-law was recently diagnosed with Fibromyalgia, so I bought her the book.

Pretty helpful
This book is helpful for people with chronic pain and especially for those with fibromyalgia.Gayle Backstrom writes this book with the idea that all parts of our body are connected (mind/body/spirit), therefore she gives helpful suggestions that include all areas.

Fair warning though, this book is a bit on the technical side. So, if you have 'fibro fog' it may be hard to get through and/or understand sections.I recommend reading it on days when you are clearer.Or, do what I did - have someone else read the section and then explain it to you.I had to do this with the research portion of the book.

Subjects covered in this book include, symptoms, latest research, physical treatment, cognitive therapy and support systems.

There are also many appendixes such as: a list of arthritis chapters, a list of resources, surfing the web and a list of fibromyalgia researchers.

I found this book to be helpful, though it wasn't one of my favorite fibromyalgia books.For my favorite ones you can check out my 'about you' area and look at the ones I have reviewed and my self-help book listmania list.

I read this book for more help dealing with fibromyalgia, but I found that I was giving my mom advice from the book,since she suffers from chronic pain in her back/neck, hips and wrist/thumb.

YOUR NEW BEST FRIEND
I read this book a few yrs. after being diagnosed with fibromyalgia. I cannot begin to describe the sense of relief and companionship this book brought to me. When friends, loved ones, & acquaintances are"diagnosed", This is the first "therapy" I recommend and/or purchase for them as a gift. It gives the reader a sense that she/heis not alone. The authors have a way of "validating" the personsuffering, and helps the others in their lives understand and offercompassion. I have lived with fibromyalgia, and several other autoimmunedisorders for 7+ yrs now. I still consider this book the best first step intreatment!Well worth the investment and time.The only thing I disagreewith in the edition I still own, is that the use of narcotic painmedications is highly admonished...so often, and to a degree that can makethe reader/sufferer that must rely on such medications to function feelguilty.Since fibromyalgia is so often accompanied by other rheumatic-likeconditions, I would never want ANYONE to add GUILT to their endless list ofproblems and symptoms. There is a place for narcotics in the treatment offibromyalgia. Many people (myself included) are unable to take NSAIDS, andthe only other medicinal alternative is maintenance narcotics.(In additionto antidepressents, muscle relaxants, etc.)Research is finding thatwithin the FM population, NSAIDS (non steroidal anti-inflamatories) are notwell tolerated by the FM patient. This is one of the best FM companionsavailable!

A good resource book for Fibromyalgia.
Defintely worth reading. A good reference book for those diagnosed with Fibromyalgia or those wishing to have a better understanding of FMS. I found the personal account of the author's experience very true to life. (Ihave Fibromyalgia.) This is real life, and those looking for a miraclestorybook ending won't find it here.This book deals addresses the factthat Fibromyalgia is real and won't just go away, however it also dealswith the many aspects of how people can deal with Fibromyalgia.

This is one of the most helpful books ever written on FMS.
This book is a wonderful blending of both practical advice for everyday living and information on the most current medical research. Even if you own all the other books out there on fibromyalgia (I do...), you will stillfind a great deal of valuable information in this one!It is really thatgood. ... Read more

Product Description
A valuable series drawing from the knowledge of physicians at the world-famous Mayo Clinic continues with a comprehensive resource on chronic pain control, discussing lifestyle changes that can ease the pain, presenting techniques for coping with it, and more. Original. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Never got it
I never did receive this book. I emailed the seller at least three times to no avail. What now, as the charges have gone through!?

Cool Alternature Therapies
You'd think the Mayo Clinic would be hardline Western medicine.But this book rocks.There are alternative treatments and everything.

Managing Pain Before It Manages You
This is THE chronic pain management book according to my doctor, and I'm a believer.I lead a more active and productive life because of his work.

What you may not "like" about this book is the emphasis on the patient's responsibility.Once a proper diagnosis is reached, the PATIENT must do things to get better.

* Stopping what is was that caused the pain to become chronic,

* Coping with overweight,

* Dealing with uncontrolled anger, depression.

* Using the mind to relax.

* Relieving stress (and the destructive hormones it releases) to loosen up the painful area.

* Getting more sleep.Setting attainable goals.

* Assessing one's personal spiritual life (not religious, but spiritual -- there's a huge difference).


Among themselves, the Mayo Clinic pain specialitsts have different philosophies and treatments.All are covered evenly in this book.

A LAUNDRY LIST OF PAIN TREATMENTS BUT NO EVALUATION OF THEIR EFFECTIVENESS
This book was really boring to read for me.It spent a lot of time trying to define what pain was and all, and then it went to this big list of alternative treatments - they just listed all the possible treatments, but they didn't evaluate them further, they didn't show how effective each treatment was, you were like supposed to guess one - try it and if it helped you great and if not then try another one. - then the whole premise is to block out the pain mentally, but the problem with pain is there is usually a reason, and just because you haven't found the reason doesn't mean there isn't a problem.I like the idea of refusing to acknowledge it and let it dominate your life and conversation - giving it more power than it needs, but the book doesn' do a good job dealing with that either.it just plain lacks significan't detail.honestly all this book is - is an outline of their 16 day program.They don't give any more details of the topics covered in the program, and this is just a summary of what they do.But what are you paying this money for the book for - the brochure of the program tells you as much as this book does, and in fact when I checked out the program they told me more information just at my 30 minute meeting with them than they covered in this whole book.The book was fairly worthless and not worth the money.The ideas are good, but there's no information to back it up. If you want more you have to enroll in their program.The book is not worth the money.I wish they would have done a better job and given the book more details, but then if they did that you wouldn't need to pay the big bucks to enroll in their program.I feel pretty ripped off that I bought this book but the laundry list was actually helpful because I could then research each pain treatment so even though I don't think it's a great book - it actually helped me some.

Too Generaland Extremely Topical
This book reminds me of many magazine covers: it promises a lot more information than it delivers.There is very little of any specific help here.Worse, it sounds like it is written by someone who has no real idea what it is like to live with debilitating chronic pain.Run 5K??!!How about, I can't walk around the block?There is no help offered for people with pain that is more than moderate in nature.Topics that should receive some real attention are skimmed over in a matter of a couple of pages or even a few paragraphs.I had expected better from a Mayo Clinic publication. ... Read more

Product Description
"Sorry, the pain you're experiencing is most likelymerely muscle related.""Your current health plan won't covertreatment for the pain you are experiencing.""We just can't seem tocome with any explanation for the pain you say you are feeling."

Does any of this sound familiar?It should.These are commonresponses to the thousands upon thousands of individuals who sufferfrom chronic pain.

Now there is a book, written in plain English, that gives you theinside scoop on chronic pain.This is no antiseptic, sterile and drypiece of reading.This is a book that delivers direct, no-nonsense,in-your-face answers to the many questions plaguing pain sufferers.Here you will read about the old concept that "it's all in your head"and how to overcome that standard assumption.Learn how managed carecan keep you and a solution to your pain problem apart.Here'sdown-to-earth, honest, insider's information on manuvering through theminefields within healthcare and how to avoid becoming just anotherstatistic or victim.

Validate Your Pain! provides the reader with confirmation that whatthey feel is real and instructs one how to go about getting a solutionto the pain they live with.Don't let ignorance, arrogance and/orgreed prohibit you or a loved one from getting access to propertreatment.Get the help you deserve.Don't let doctors or insurancecompanies sweep you under the chronic pain rug.

Here is a sampling of the 17 chapters in Validate Your Pain!:
"The Doctors know Best...or Do They?"
"'It's All in Your Head' and Other Popular Fairy Tales"
"Narcotics and the Fear of Addiction: Or Much Ado about AlmostNothing"
"Chiropratic"
"Acupuncture"
"Surgery and Other Desperate Measures"
"The Managed Care Experiment"
"Stacking the Deck in Your Favor"

If you or someone you know suffers from debilitating, chronic pain,you should read this book SOON. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Doctors & their brutal refusal to treat pain stands revealed.
I suffer from debilitating "nonspecific" chronic headaches. Doctors have spent four years trying, and failing, to slap a label (diagnoses) on this pain. Because it is diagnosed as nonspecific, most physicians refuse to provide me with a specific, nonnarcotic pain medication that time and experience has proven extremely effective on a regular basis. because my headaches currently remain undiagnosed, my chronic and extreme pain is regarded as suspect. The reality of actual severe pain is dismissed by doctors as imagined, psychosomatic, hyperchondrial, or "drug-seeking behavior" on my part. For the most part, for over ten years, I have not received proper, adequate or humane treatment for actual, real and terrible pain. This book has given me the key to solving this critical state of medical affairs when it comes to negligent or non-existant pain treatment that is crucial and required by myself and countless others who suffer needlessly. A concise, witty, inteligent and most importantly, an invaluable book on the subject is available. This is that book. My highest recommendation.

Validate your pain
I think this book is right on.I have had chronic back pain for years and every doctor tells me it is in my head, or I need physical therapy.If I could do the exercises they want you to do in therapy, I would nt need a doctor.The worst thing is finding someone to believe you and who is willing to do all that is possible to help. Doctors are too quick to just blow you off when it comes to chronic pain.

Easy to Understand
More geared to the US than New Zealand because of the differences in the medical insurance systems but a lot of very valuable information that would be applicable anywhere. The information about how doctors do things gives more confidence when dealing with the medical profession which can be very hard at times. Doctors become very nervous when they cannot put things into little boxes and give solutions to problems which leads to the pain sufferer being pushed out into the cold sometimes. Recent experience has shown that attitudes within the medical profession are changing and doctors are opening up to new methods of pain treatment that give the patient more hope for the future. No doubt books like this have played a significant part in this change of attitude.

ok
I found some areas helpful.

Validate Your Pain-Exposing the Chronic Pain Cover-Up
Run, limp, order it online- but DEFINTELY obtain this book ASAP if you are a pain survivor, work with pain patients or if a loved one suffers from chronic pain. This book is outstanding and sincere. I use it as an invaluable resource and I use it for emotional support. The approach is right-on-target and empowering. The utter contempt pain patients face on a daily basis from the medical community, indifferent (sometimes frustrated) and ignorant doctors and nurses, acquaintances, friends and family is appalling and barbaric.
I was recently referred to a pain clinic associated with a respected university and I went relunctantly. The two doctors I encountered were utter clowns. I knew more about neurology and medicines applicable to my situation than they did- which is terrifying. To think that people, in the most horrific of pain have no choice but to turn to these "Keystone doctors" when they are in the most desperate of situations is truly of nightmarish implications. As anesthesiologists they were already discussing "shots" before I even gave them my pain history. The doctor who took the history "zoned-out" in the middle while I related my history. I did not fit neatly into any of his boxes. As a teacher it is my job to know when someone is not paying attention. I had to resist the urge to tell him "to sit up straight and pay attention". Nor was he even following what I was saying (that is also my job to determine if a listener understands.They could not diagnose me, recognized I was bright and well-informed, and was not going to stand for any of their nonsense. They could not get me out of there fast enough and kept looking for one feeble excuse after another. Six years of unrelenting, daily pain that never goes away, is getting worse and they said I was doing "just fine". I was butchered by a endodontist who is still out there "practicing".I can barely hold down a job. The most mundane task is a major event. They couldn't wait to get me out of there which was fine with me. I am certain they could not even pass a basic logic class.
This book explains a myriad of procedures and covers countless medications. Drs. David and Chino brought to my attention a medication that is actually helping me. I have scoured the Internet in search of help but their book is packed with information I may never have found. The information is compassionate and up-to-date.
My only regret is that I live in the Midwest and cannot further benefit from the expertise and empathy of these forthright, pragmatic pain specialists.
But I cannot thank them enough.
BUY THIS BOOK!!!!!!!!!! ... Read more