There has been a lot of bickering – and worse yet, a lot of what comes across as hatred – on social networks lately, regarding the use of alternative treatments for arthritis. The way that I look at it, though, is that those who use alternative treatments and those who use traditional medical treatments for … Continue reading
Tag Archives: JIA
An Open Letter to Lady Gaga: Synovitis Stinks! – from Ashley Boynes-Shuck
Dear Lady Gaga, a.k.a. Stefani: Synovitis stinks. I, too, am a twentysomething who knows what it is like to have put on hold the things I love because of pain, and I interact with thousands of others every day who have felt the same exact way. I read on your Twitter page that your doctor … Continue reading
Arthritis and The Flu: How to Handle Influenza and Rheumatic Disease – by Ashley Boynes-Shuck
This has been one of the most dangerous and widespread flu seasons in years, and it is important for everyone to take proper precautions in preventing the flu. One option is gettinga flu vaccine. While the flu shot is controversial to some, it has been shown to reduce the occurence of certain strains of … Continue reading
13 Arthritis Tips and Resolutions for the New Year – by Ashley Boynes-Shuck
Happy New Year! Let’s resolve to make 2013 a healthy year with these 13 tips for living well with arthritis and rheumatic illness. Exercise: We know you hear it all the time, and we know that it can be frustrating and seem like a huge challenge, but light to moderate exercise, or any kind of … Continue reading
Top Arthritis Stories of 2012 – by Ashley Boynes-Shuck
‘Tis the season for holiday cheer, and we’re wishing you all a wonderful holiday filled with joy, health, and happiness! As 2012 comes to a close (without a Mayan apocalypse) we’d like to count down just some of the most important and most inspiring arthritis-related news stories of the year. If we’ve forgotten or overlooked … Continue reading
Holiday Gift Ideas for Arthritis Patients – by Ashley Boynes-Shuck
The holiday season is here, and it is the time for giving gifts, and letting loved ones around us know how much they mean to us. So, if someone special in your life is affected by arthritis or chronic pain, what are some good gift ideas to give them? Here are some tips and suggestions: … Continue reading
Setting Goals while Living with Chronic Illness – by Ashley Boynes-Shuck
As the new year approaches, many of us will make resolutions, but, it is important to always have goals in mind all year ’round. Goal setting may seem like an insurmountable task when faced with chronic illness, but, having goals is a great way to cope with your illness. Remember that it is never too … Continue reading
All About Inflammation – by Ashley Boynes-Shuck
Inflammation plays a huge role in rheumatic ailments such as arthritis…but what, exactly, is inflammation? According to Medical News today, “Inflammation is part of the body’s immune response. Inflammation is the body’s attempt at self-protection; the aim being to remove harmful stimuli, including damaged cells, irritants, or pathogens – and begin the healing process. When something … Continue reading
Ways to Make Life Easier While Living with Arthritis – by Ashley Boynes-Shuck
Living with arthritis or any other chronic illness or disability isn’t easy, but here are some tips to make life just a little bit easier! Ask for help – in any way, shape, or form, when necessary. Make meal prep a family affair – you’ll get quality bonding time and have extra assistance in the … Continue reading
Positive vs. Negative: The Image of Arthritis – by Ashley Boynes-Shuck
Undoubtedly, when one thinks of arthritis or rheumatic illness, not many “good” images come to mind. Chronic illness, disabilities, pain – these aren’t “positive” things. So, there becomes a real frustration – and a real disconnect – for many patients who see commercials for arthritis drugs that feature smiling, seemingly healthy and pain-free individuals who … Continue reading