Conquering Arthritis: What Doctors Don't Tell You | Arthritis Information

 

As for the second book, the phrase in the title "the only medical therapy clinically proven to produce long term remission ..." turns me right off.  Why haven't my doctors suggested that "only medical therapy clinically proven" to me in the last 15 years?  That said, the book might have some helpful info in it.

 

I'd suggest checking for these titles at your library before investing money in them.  If they're not in your local library, they can always do an inter-library loan. 

 

If you are interested in the elimination diet approach, it might best be done under the supervision of a naturopath or homeopathic physician.  I am doing an elimination diet right now with a great naturopath.  She did not preach any hokey advice to me like "this food will cure you" or "stop all your meds and take this supplement." It is a slow process but I do believe that some foods are triggers for some people.  I've noticed flares after eating at certain restaurants, for example. 

 

Best wishes with your research!

 

As for the "New Arthritis Breakthrough"  there is some evidence that tetracycline based antibiotics can be helpful in the treatment of RA and other rheumatic diseases however there is a lot of controversy as to how beneficial it is.  The ACR does recognize minocin as a disease modifier but their guidelines also only recognizes it for treatent of early mild RA. 

 

I have an issue with this book simply because it uses anecdotes for its "proof" verses solid science.  There is absolutely no real proof as to Dr Schammel's long term claims.  Which is sad because if any AP doctor would actually do a long term study they might get their proof

 

Also she had reactive arthritis....but somehow she claims that her "treatment" fits all types of arthritis. 

 

I think you covered the questions very well!  Ditto, I did not delve enough, just quickly looked at the Amazon info ... Green Tara,

Thanks for the warning, yes I have been doing lots of studying.  And some of it definitely seems to be borderline science.  As I've read a bit about all the medicines and treatments, I do worry about side effects.   And I read a bit about environmental issues (or allergies) and the anti-biotic protocol business.  I have no idea what is correct, and am not yet starting anything from what I read.  My Dr. is part of a leading Medical University which also conducts research on RA, so I will definitely put a lot of faith in what she says.  Again, so far I've had only one appt. where the RA was diagnosed (preliminary), and she ordered blood tests and xrays.  Have follow up appt. next week where I'll learn the results of the test.  Then I assume she'll prescribe some of the common drugs.  I am trying to be prepared, the Drs. always seem to have limited time with the patient.

Roland
I should have added.  The swelling is way down now on my hands and feet.  For example on the hands, I can now see the blood vessels and tendons on the back of the hands -- completely swollen over before.  Also, I can now see an ankle bone a bit, where last week it was only possible to feel it.  Same with the top of the foot, before there was this 1/4" swelling all across the top.  Some swelling still remains on both, and joint pain is about the same.  I have no idea why it has changed, I do take the 800mg Ibuprofen 3 times a day, and have cut down on eating, but those are really the only known changes.

Roland
ibuprofen is an anti-inflammatory. Be careful of your stomach and try to take it with foods... until you get something else that will help.

Green Tara... This question about both books ... has been brought up to this forum a multitude of times.. and will be.. again and again.
buckeye is very versed in them having read and researched..

I didn't mean to belittle your reply.. it too, was good.
Hey, [QUOTE=babs10]Green Tara... This question about both books ... has been brought up to this forum a multitude of times.. and will be.. again and again.
buckeye is very versed in them having read and researched..

I didn't mean to belittle your reply.. it too, was good.
[/QUOTE]