Ankylosing Spondylitis is an inflammatory arthritis
that affects the spine and sacroiliac joints as well as
other parts of the body, and that can eventually lead,
in some patients, to complete fusion of the vertebrae
and total rigidity. AS is not a rare health problem, but
is in fact found in almost one percent of the US
population, typically strikes young people and young
families, and in its various forms is probably more
common than rheumatoid arthritis. In this invaluable
guide, Dr. Michael H. Weisman, one of America's leading
authorities on AS, provides a down-to-earth,
crystal-clear guide that is ideal for patients and their
family. Dr. Weisman explains what AS is, discusses the
genetic background to the disease (including the genes
that researchers think may predispose some people to
AS), explains how to diagnose the disease early and
possibly prevent the later development of debilitating
rigidity, the use of MRI for early detection, and much
more.The book outlines which medications (such as TNF
inhibitors) seem the most promising right now, the
various drug side effects, the value of physical
therapy, other treatment approaches, and whether surgery
can be used to manage the complications of the disease.
AS can lead to severe disability, but even those who
have a milder form will experience painful ''flares''
alternating with periods of remission. Since it is a
progressive disease in many patients, it is very
important to reach patients as early as possible. This
book will arm patients with the vital information they
need to combat the disease. Laurie M. Savage, the
Executive Director of the Spondylitis Association of
America (SSA), the main patient support group
world-wide, has written a foreword to the book. In
addition, SSA will endorse the book and their logo will
appear on the cover. |
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