Review of "Arthritis - The complete guide to relief using methods that really work"

Written by: David Sobel and Arthur C Klein Reviewed by: John Perrott (Spring 2006) Published by:Constable & Robinson Ltd ISBN: 1 84529 073 9 Price: £9.99	Available from the BackCare Shop
If a health professional such as a GP wants to give you advice they are limited to published research that has ruled out all of the variables except the one being tested. This book takes a different approach. The authors conducted surveys of people's reactions to treatments and remedies, then graded their opinions. Most of the samples were small. They were done in the USA and in the UK. The book was written for the USA market and adapted for the UK. You are reading the opinions of thousands of people who have tried everything that might, or might not work, with arthritis. The surveys cover healthcare providers, drugs, prescribed and over the counter medicines, surgery, nutrition and diets, supplements, biofeedback, exercise, yoga, acupuncture, and exercise. A large section is devoted to a wholesome diet and exercise as these are the most widely held benefits. Folk lore remedies like bee venom, copper bracelets and cyder vinegar are also covered.
The book makes a simple statement like, walking is better than jogging, then explains why, and give you a comprehensive walking program that helps you to achieve your goals. Health professionals are sometimes asked questions like, "Should I take omega 3 fish oils or cod liver oil?" The author answers these questions by showing the benefits and limitations of both. A lot of the statements seem familiar, but by testing the statements against sample groups of people it separates myth from fact. The book is a gold mine of information for sufferers, and for people who are asked to advise on arthritis.