Sure, I always strive to be happy and live well with illness. I push positivity, and, I’m not alone – research has shown that a positive attitude and optimistic outlook is beneficial both to your mental AND physical health. While we should at all times try to live our best lives despite our conditions, the … Continue reading »
Filed under Wellness …
Billie Jean King and Venus Williams: Two Tennis Stars Making Arthritis News! – by Ashley Boynes-Shuck
In the past 24 hours, two tennis stars have made “rheum” for some big announcements. First, tennis legend Billie Jean King was announced as the star of the new Arthritis Foundation campaign to help fight arthritis pain. The new ads state that we “need a weapon in fighting arthritis” and asks fellow arthritis sufferers — … Continue reading »
Joys and Pains: A Rheumatoid Arthritis Poem – by Ashley Boynes-Shuck
For today’s blog post, I would like to do something a little different, and share with you all a poem that I wrote about life with rheumatoid arthritis and other rheumatic conditions/chronic illnesses. It is called Joys and Pains. Please enjoy! “Unrelenting pain and never-ceasing fatigue. Hurts and aches in every place. Wondering at times, … Continue reading »
The Great Debate: Alcohol and Arthritis by Ashley Boynes-Shuck
Like all great debates, there are opinions — and evidence — on both sides of the “alcohol and arthritis” issue. Some studies show that moderate alcohol intake is actually good for arthritis/inflammation….but many people with the conditions say that drinking worsens their symptoms. Of course, there are also the medications — many of which state … Continue reading »
Acupuncture for Arthritis – Does it Work? – by Ashley Boynes-Shuck
I have had acupuncture maybe 10 times before. Sometimes, I feel that it provides relief, and sometimes, unfortunately, it does nothing for me. Like everything, I believe that each experience is unique, and that a lot of other factors contribute to the results each time. I would never say that it doesn’t work — in … Continue reading »
Coping while Giving Back: The Health Benefits of Doing Good by Ashley Boynes-Shuck
Lately, I’ve been astounded by the amount of people who comment upon my strength and positivity in the face of my multiple health problems. A lot of them have the same question: how do I cope? I have thought about it, and I’d like to answer that question for you now. The truth is — … Continue reading »
The “Intangibles” of Rheumatoid Arthritis & Chronic Illness by Ashley Boynes-Shuck
Living with any illness is a challenge; but having an “invisible” illness is especially difficult. How can you make people understand your condition when your symptoms and your disabilities are often hidden? Yesterday, I had a rare weak moment where I was very much struggling to stay positive. Since we’re all human and entitled to … Continue reading »
There’s Always Rheum to Be Social! Online Support for Arthritis – by Ashley Boynes-Shuck
Many folks with rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, myositis, and other related rheumatic conditions may have a hard time getting “out and about” to socialize. Friendships and relationships may take a toll; some are unable to work or attend school any longer. So, to avoid the isolation, loneliness, and depression that can often come with a disability … Continue reading »
Romance and Arthritis by Ashley Boynes
Have you seen the psoriasis commercial where the girl is self-conscious about going on a date because of her condition? It isn’t just psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis that can make people feel this way. In fact, most chronic illnesses can affect relationships, romance, and the social life and self-esteem of the patient. How do you … Continue reading »
Rheumatoid Arthritis: How Is RA Diagnosed? – Ashley Boynes
As you may know, there are many varying forms of arthritis. Sometimes, it is even hard for doctors to figure out which one you may have! Is it Osteoarthritis or Rheumatoid Arthritis? Lupus? Sjogren’s Syndrome? Ankylosing Spondylitis? Fibromyalgia? The American College of Rheumatology has a set of guidelines that doctors/rheumatologists are to follow when making … Continue reading »
