Introduction Chronic pain is one of the most widespread and disabling health issues in the United States, affecting tens of millions of adults. Conditions such as arthritis and fibromyalgia are among the leading contributors. While…
Chronic illness
Understand chronic illness, its symptoms, common causes, and effective management strategies to improve health and quality of life.
This Is Important for RA Patients to Know: Taming Inflammation Doesn’t Always Alleviate Pain
“This may have implications for management decisions beyond treating to disease activity targets alone.” Pain and inflammation often go hand in hand, especially for people with inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis (RA). So it logically…
30% of RA Patients Don’t See Fatigue Improve After Starting Treatment
Understanding the Hidden Burden of Fatigue in Rheumatoid Arthritis Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is widely recognized as a chronic autoimmune condition that primarily affects the joints, causing pain, swelling, stiffness, and progressive joint damage if left…
The 5 Ways My Artwork Helps Me Cope with My Multiple Chronic Diseases
Introduction Living with multiple chronic diseases changes the way everyday life feels in ways that are difficult to explain to someone who hasn’t experienced it firsthand. It is not just about pain, fatigue, medication schedules,…
Fibromyalgia vs. Lupus: What’s the Difference?
Fibromyalgia and lupus are two chronic conditions that are often confused with one another, especially in the early stages of diagnosis. Both can cause widespread pain, fatigue, and a significant impact on daily life, and…
Fibromyalgia Symptoms: 10 Clues You Might Be Ignoring
Introduction Fibromyalgia rarely announces itself in a clear, straightforward way. It tends to build gradually, often disguised as separate, unrelated issues that don’t initially seem connected. One week it might be persistent fatigue. Another week…
Arthritis in Your Wrist: Signs of Wrist Arthritis, and What to Do About It
Introduction Your wrists play an essential role in nearly every aspect of daily life. Whether you’re typing on a keyboard, lifting groceries, preparing meals, driving, writing, or simply opening a door, your wrists are constantly…
More Than One-Third of Axial Spondyloarthritis Patients Develop Peripheral Arthritis
Introduction Axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) is a chronic inflammatory disease that primarily affects the spine and the sacroiliac joints, causing persistent back pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. It is most commonly associated with inflammation in the…
Butt Pain and Arthritis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments
Introduction Butt pain is a common complaint that can range from mild discomfort to severe, debilitating pain that interferes with walking, sitting, exercising, and even sleeping. While muscle strains, nerve compression, and injuries are often…
Feel that cold – Fibro Weather
“Fall Blends” oil pastel by Shelley Lockwood Fall was one of my favorite seasons. Some days, damp ones to be more precise are rarely pleasant or enjoyable. Last week the dull ache got less dull…