The Fibromyalgia Handbook: A 7-Step Program to Halt and Even Reverse Fibromyalgia, 3rd Edition (Paperback)

by Harris H. McIlwain M.D. (Author), Debra Fulghum Ph.D. (Author) "Aching, stabbing, and sometimes even burning..." (more)
Key Phrases: deep muscle pain, most fibromyalgia patients, many fibromyalgia patients, Social Security, United States, Super Malic (more...)

Editorial Reviews

From Library Journal
Fibromyalgia affects more than ten million Americans, largely women, ages 40 or older, and causes severe muscle pain, fatigue, sleep disturbance, and depression. It rates as the most common arthritis-related disease, next to osteoarthritis, and as a commonly misdiagnosed syndrome. To help in controlling this difficult health problem, arthritis specialist McIlwain outlines a multistep program of medical treatment (moist heat, medication, ultrasound, and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, or TENS), exercise and fitness, stress relief, complementary approaches (chiropractic, massage therapy, acupuncture, biofeedback, and homeopathic treatment), nutrition and diet, and support groups. A useful appendix of exercises, a list of references and supporting research, and some frequently asked questions will assist in the patient's treatment. Recommended, especially when read in tandem with Devin Starlanyl and Mary Ellen Copeland's more comprehensive Fibromyalgia and Chronic Myofascial Pain Syndrome: A Survival Manual (LJ 9/15/96).?Janet Coggan, Univ. of Florida Libs., Gainesville
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

From Booklist
Fibromyalgia is a misunderstood, misdiagnosed disease whose symptoms include severe muscle pain, fatigue, sleep problems, and depression. The sufferers, mostly middle-aged women, don't get much respect, and in the past, patients were often told the disease was in their heads. Now it is recognized as an arthritis-related condition, and finally, attempts are being made to treat it. In this volume, the authors (a doctor and a health writer) offer information on the latest treatments, physical therapies, and nutritional supplements as well as a list of organizations and information systems. A helpful, easily understood guide for an illness about which little is written. Ilene Cooper --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

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Product Details

• Paperback: 320 pages
• Publisher: Holt Paperbacks; 3rd edition (April 1, 2003)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0805072411
• ISBN-13: 978-0805072419
• Product Dimensions: 8.1 x 5.4 x 1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 10.6 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.7 out of 5 stars See all reviews (53 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #222,538 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

25 of 25 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars A great intro to this confusing condition!, October 20, 1999

By	LeAnn Gay ([e-mail]) (San Diego Ca) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Fibromyalgia Handbook: A 7-Step Program to Halt & Even Reverse Fibromyalgia (Paperback)

I am in the process of seeing a specialist for fibromyalgia after suffering symptoms for many years. I am a 39 year old mom of 4! This book helped me feel I wasn't alone and this wasn't all in my head. The case studies were very helpful and relatable. The diet and supplement info was educational and confirmed for me that antioxidants help tremendously! Also the extreme importance of exercise is emphasized. Thanks!

21 of 21 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars An excellent book and credible, March 15, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: The Fibromyalgia Handbook (Paperback)

As a physician who suffers with fibromyalgia, I am stunned at the many books available for lay readers on how to treat fibromyalgia. That's why when I find a book that is credible with NO HYPE, I carefully read it and tell my patients. THE FIBROMYALGIA HANDBOOK by McIlwain is such a book. It is filled with scientific studies, easy-to-understand explanations, and a 7-step plan that is guaranteed to reduce your stress and chronic muscle pain--if you commit to doing it. The sleep and nutrition chapters were especially helpful to me, as I've found when i lose sleep, I hurt more. Thank you for writing something we can trust, Dr. McIlwain.

25 of 26 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars BUY THIS BOOK--DO THE PLAN, October 16, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: The Fibromyalgia Handbook: A 7-Step Program to Halt & Even Reverse Fibromyalgia (Paperback)

I know you are sick of "answers" about FMS--because, if you are like me, NONE REALLY WORK. Forget it--this BOOK has answers that work. But you have to TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR LIFE. The book details how the patient with FMS is more sensitive to everything--stress, environment, life interruptions. So the good doctor shows how to regain control of your life, your sleep, your diet, your stress, your meds, and your exercise. BUY THE BOOK--DO THE PLAN. You will win!!!