Books & Videos

On Fibromyalgia And Related Conditions

A publication of the National Fibromyalgia Partnership, Inc.

Compiled and distributed by the National Fibromyalgia Partnership (2002)

Carefully selected articles from the National Fibromyalgia Partnership's popular quarterly, Fibromyalgia Frontiers. Sixty-two articles on fibromyalgia and related conditions, symptom management, coping, and work/disability, plus 18 favorites from Frontiers' "Ask the Expert" columns. Topics include: Alternative medicine • Americans with Disabilities Act • Bodywork approaches • Breathing exercises • Carpal tunnel syndrome • Cervical stenosis/chiari malformation • Chiropractic treatment • Chronic fatigue syndrome • Cognitive behavioral therapy • Comprehensive treatment approach • Coping • Disability benefits • Dizziness and dysequilibrium • EEG neurotherapy • Emergency services • Fibromyalgia • Fibromyalgia and work • Fibromyalgia in young people • Fitness with fibromyalgia • Footwear for fibromyalgia • Headaches • Humor • Infrared imaging • Insurance policies • Interstitial cystitis • Irritable bowel syndrome • Laser therapy • Medication management • Memory • Mycoplasma infection • Myofascial pain syndrome • Neurally mediated hypotension • Parenthood and fibromyalgia • Quality of life • Relationships • Restless leg syndrome • Stress and fibromyalgia • Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain and dysfunction • Thoracic pain and dysfunction • Vulvodynia • Water fitness • Watsu. [182 pages, softcover.  Available from the NFP's Online Store—www.fmpartnership.org. NFP Members—$10/Non-members—$15.00, shipping/handling included. Also available by mail order. Send check or money order payable to "NFP, Inc." to: P.O. Box 160, Linden, VA 22642 or send credit card information (Visa/Mastercard/Discover accepted.]

By Roland Staud, M.D., with Christine Adamec (Wiley Publishing, Inc., 2002)

Researcher/rheumatologist Roland Staud, M.D., has compiled an easy-to-use guide on the symptoms of and treatments for fibromyalgia which is true to the spirit of previous "For Dummies" books. He cites two goals for his book: to demonstrate that fibromyalgia pain is real and to provide current information on medications, lifestyle changes, and other treatment options. This book offers not only general coping techniques but also specific strategies for those unable to work full-time, for family members or friends of individuals with fibromyalgia, and for parents whose child has fibromyalgia. Although some of the information is basic, both newly diagnosed and long-time sufferers will find beneficial material in this thorough guide to easing the pain. [319 pages with appendices, softcover, $21.99. Available in many bookstores and online.]

(Anadem Publishing, Inc., 2004)

This reference covers every facet of fibromyalgia. Forty-three chapters cover diagnosis and multiple approaches to treatment as well as pain, illness causation/prognosis, special FM-related problems, post-traumatic fibromyalgia, daily life challenges, and more. An invaluable reference for both patients and medical professionals written by a physician with fibromyalgia. [425 pages, softcover. Available from Anadem Publishing, Inc. Website: www.anadem.com.]

Edited by Daniel J. Wallace & Daniel J. Clauw (Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins, Publishers, 2005)

This new book contains a broad range of material contributed by leading medical experts in the field of fibromyalgia and chronic pain. Contents include: The History of Fibromyalgia (Daniel J. Wallace) • The Taxonomy of Chronic Pain: Moving Toward More Mechanistic Classifications (Daniel J. Clauw) • The Epidemiology of Chronic Widespread Pain and Fibromyalgia (John McBeth) • The Concept of Central Sensitivity Syndromes (Muhammad B. Yunus) • The Neurobiology of Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain—Includes Chronic Regional Pain (Roland Staud) • Neurotransmitters, Cytokines, Hormones, and the Immune System in Chronic Nonneuropathic Pain (I. Jon Russell) • Dysfunction of the Autonomic Nervous System in Chronic Pain Syndromes (Manuel Martínez-Lavín) • Functional Imaging of Pain (Richard H. Gracely and Laurence A. Bradley) • Muscles and Peripheral Abnormalities in Fibromyalgia (Haiko Sprott) • Sleep and Its Potential Role in Chronic Pain and Fatigue (Harvey Moldofsky and James G. MacFarlane) • Symptoms and Signs of Fibromyalgia Syndrome: An Overview (Muhammad B. Yunus) • Neurologic Features of Fibromyalgia (Robert Bennett) • Myofascial Pain Syndromes of the Head and Face (Eli Eliav and Rafael Benoliel) • Psychosocial Factors in Fibromyalgia (Laurence A. Bradley and Graciela S. Alarcön) • Fibromyalgia in Children (David D. Sherry) • Fibromyalgia in Inflammatory and Endocrine Disorders (David S. Hallegua) • Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (Atul Deodhar) • The Functional Bowel Disorder Spectrum (Lucinda A. Harris and Lin Chang) • Genitourinary Associations with Fibromyalgia (Daniel J. Wallace and Swamy Venuturupalli) • Chronic Low Back Pain (Thorsten Giesecke and Michael E. Geisser) • Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome (Franklin Kozin) • The Role of Trauma in Chronic Neuromuscular Pain (Samuel A. McLean, Daniel J. Clauw, and David A. Williams) • Controversial Syndromes and Their Relationship to Fibromyalgia (Swamy Venuturupalli and Daniel J. Wallace) • The Evaluation of Individuals with Chronic Widespread Pain (Daniel J. Clauw) • The Differential Diagnosis of Chronic Regional Pain (Kevin P. White) • Assessment Tools and Outcome Measures Used in the Investigation of Fibromyalgia (Stuart L. Silverman and Susan A. Martin) • Lifestyle and Environmental Interventions in Fibromyalgia and Related Conditions (Stephanie A. Bolling and Thomas M. Susko) • The Use of Exercise and Rehabilitation Regimens (Kaisa Mannerkorpi and Maura Daly Iversen) • Cognitive and Behavioral Approaches to Chronic Pain (David A. Williams) • Local Therapy for Fibromyalgia and Nonneuropathic Pain (Lan Chen, Jodi Goldman-Knaub and Sally Pullman-Mooar) • Systemic Therapies for Chronic Pain (Lesley M. Arnold) • Complementary and Alternative Medicine for Fibromyalgia (Edzard Ernst) • The Economic Impact of Fibromyalgia on Society and Disability Issues (Daniel J. Wallace) • Prognosis (Arash A. Horizon and Michael H. Weisman) • Future Research Directions (Leslie J. Crofford). [421 pages, hardcover, $79.95 plus shipping/handling. To order, visit the Lippincott Williams & Wilkins' online store at: www.lww.com and search for: product/?0-7817-5261-2, or phone customer service toll-free at: (800) 639-3030.]

By Dieter E. Pongratz, Prof. Dr. med.; Siegfried Mense, Prof. Dr. med.; Michael Spaeth, Dr. med. M.D.

This book is a collection of the finest presentations from the 2004 Sixth World Congress of the International Myopain Society (MYOPAIN 2004) held in Munich, Germany, where respected experts presented the state-of-the-art in pain mechanisms, myofascial pain syndrome, fibromyalgia syndrome, and inflammatory myopathies. Up-to-date innovative studies illustrate appropriate diagnostic approaches and latest practical treatments for soft tissue pain syndromes of all types. Presentations on myofascial pain syndrome included in the book are: Mechanisms of the Transition from Acute to Chronic Pain (Walter Zieglgänsberger) • New Aspects Of Myofascial Trigger Points: Etiological and Clinical (David G. Simons) • Differential Diagnosis of Trigger Points (Robert Gerwin) • Trigger Points as a Cause of Orofacial Pain (Sandro Palla) • Myofascial Pain Therapy (Chang-Zern Hong). Presentations on fibromyalgia included in the book are: Pain and the Neuroendocrine System (Gunther Neeck) • Developments in the Fibromyalgia Syndrome (I. Jon Russell) • Diagnostic Criteria and Differential Diagnosis in the Fibromyalgia Syndrome (Robert M. Bennett) • Fibromyalgia: Novel Therapeutic Aspects (Carol Burckhardt); • Fibromyalgia: Novel Drug Therapies (Leslie Crofford). [134 pages, softcover, $24.95. This book may be ordered directly online at: www.haworthpress.com/store/product.asp?sku=5764. Or, order by mail from the Haworth Press: 10 Alice Street, Binghamton, NY 13904-1580. Phone: (800) 429-6784. Fax: (800) 895-0582. Outside the U.S./Canada: Phone: (607) 722-5857; Fax: (607) 771-0012.]

Edited by Robert M. Bennett, M.D. (The Haworth Medical Press, 2002)

A synopsis of the plenary sessions of the MYOPAIN 2001 conference offered by the International MYOPAIN Society, this book brings together leading experts from around the world. Included are six presentations each on the neurobiology of central sensitization, regional pain syndromes, and chronic widespread pain, as well as introductory chapters by noted fibromyalgia researchers I. Jon Russell, M.D., Ph.D., and Robert Bennett, M.D. A presidential address by Leonardo Vecchiet addresses the topic of muscle pain and aging. [267 pages, softcover, $34.95 plus shipping/handling. Available from the Haworth Press, 10 Alice Street, Binghamton, NY 13904-1580. Phone: (800) Haworth. Fax: (800) 895-0582 or (607) 722-6362. Website: www.haworthpressinc.com.]

By Siegfried Mense, Prof. Dr. Med.; David G. Simons, M.D.; and I. Jon Russell, M.D., Ph.D.

(Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins, 2000)

Carefully constructed by three giants in the field of muscle and soft tissue research, this authoritative new textbook constructs a platform of medically-accurate information and thought-provoking discussion upon which future investigators and scholars can build. The authors provide precise definitions of the muscle terminology which has often been used carelessly and inaccurately in casual conversation. They also address such general topics as the relationship between acute and chronic pain, gender differences in the experience of pain, and difficulties in doctor/patient communication on the subject of pain symptoms. They then cover in greater depth the individual topics of local pain, neuropathic pain, referred pain, increased tension, reflexly mediated and postural pain, centrally modified pain, and myofascial pain--all in the context of muscle. A final comprehensive chapter on fibromyalgia by I. Jon Russell, M.D., Ph.D., is included. Each chapter presents a historical overview which assesses the theories and disagreements which have characterized its particular subject matter. Then, current research and new hypotheses are considered along with detailed information on pharmacologic therapies. [400 pages, hardback, $54.95. Available from the publisher's website, www.lippincott.com, and from many bookstores.]

By Gary McCleane, M.D., practicing consultant in pain management in Northern Ireland, and Howard Smith, M.D., Academic Director of Pain Management, Department of Anesthesiology, Albany Medical College (The Haworth Medical Press, 2006)

Offering articles by some of the world's leading authorities, this book addresses the unique difficulties that arise when trying to provide pain relief for elderly patients. Both traditional and alternative therapies are considered. Topics include: research on pain and the elderly patient; acute and chronic pain in the elderly; pain as an aspect of advancing age; how pharmacology differs in elderly patients; available therapeutic options—including opioids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, anti-epileptic drugs, tricyclic antidepressants, membrane stabilizers, and topical agents; physical medicine approaches; physical therapy for the management of pain in the elderly; and psychological approaches to pain in the elderly. [304 pages, softbound, $34.95. This book may be ordered directly online at: www.haworthpress.com/ store/product.asp?sku=5356. Or, order by mail from the Haworth Press, 10 Alice Street, Binghamton, NY 13904-1580. Phone: (800) 429-6784; Fax: (800) 895-0582. Outside the U.S./Canada: Phone: (607) 722-5857; Fax: (607) 771-0012.]

Edited by Roberto Patarca-Montero, M.D., Ph.D. Founding Co-Editor, Nancy Klimas, M.D. (The Haworth Medical Press)

Contains multi-disciplinary research, practical clinical management, case reports, and literature reviews related to chronic fatigue syndrome. [For individuals: $60/yr. (U.S.); $81.00/yr. (Canada); $87/yr. (other countries). Check, money order, and credit cards accepted. Send order to: The Haworth Press, 10 Alice Street, Binghamton, NY 13904-1580. Phone: (800) Haworth. Fax: (800) 895-0582 or (607)722-6362. Website: www.haworthpressinc.com.]

Edited by I. Jon Russell, M.D., Ph.D. (The Haworth Medical Press)

This journal provides a wealth of information on fibromyalgia and myofascial pain syndrome. Edited by eminent fibromyalgia researcher I. Jon Russell, M.D., Ph.D., and featuring an international who's who of distinguished researchers on its editorial board, it offers the latest in research, the proceedings of conferences and special seminars, and book reviews. [For individuals: $75/yr. (U.S.); $101.00/yr. (Canada); $109/yr. (other countries). Check, money order, or credit cards accepted. Send order to: The Haworth Press, 10 Alice Street, Binghamton, NY 13904-1580. Phone: (800) Haworth. Fax: (800) 895-0582 or (607) 722-6362. Website: www.haworthpressinc.com.]

Edited by Howard S. Smith, M.D.

Medical professionals will find state-of-the art treatment information on neuropathic pain in this new publication. According to Haworth, the journal's editor, Howard S. Smith, M.D., Academic Director of Pain Management at Albany Medical College in New York, hopes to provide the latest basic science and research information as well as clinical and practical information that will help practitioners improve the quality of life of patients. [This journal is available in print format and electronically. For more information, write: The Haworth Press, Inc., 10 Alice Street, Binghamton, NY 13904-1580. Phone: (800) 429-6784. Outside the U.S./Canada (607) 722-5857. Email: orders@HaworthPress. com. Individual subscriptions are available starting at $54/volume—four issues).]

By Hal Blatman, M.D., and Brad Ekvall, B.F.A. (Danua Press, LLC, 2006)

(The following is an excerpt from a book review by Devin Starlanyl, respected author and authority on chronic myofascial pain and fibromyalgia.) "This book is as important for the chronic pain patient as it is for the athlete. Imagine a world in which you have a body-worker on 24-hour call, and when you called, this therapist arrived immediately and could tell you exactly where the pain originated and what to do about it and how to prevent it from occurring in the future. This book will teach you how to be that therapist. This book is also an important time-saving tool for doctors, nurses, trigger point myotherapists, physical therapists, occupational and vocational therapists, massage therapists, and many other care providers as a neatly packaged ‘how-to’ book of exercise, pain control, and prevention. It is a book that can and should be used by anyone having muscle pain. This book does more than teach about myofascial trigger points (MTrPs). It teaches an integrated program of stretching, proper breathing, and ball acupressure. This book is written by a specialist in myofascial medicine, pain management, and integrative medicine. Dr. Blatman sees complex pain patients every day and enables them to improve their lives. He has put what you need to know into a wonderfully entertaining, informative, and well-illustrated book. Realistic cartoon figures illustrate how to stretch and move in a healthy way that is integrated with ball techniques. You will learn where the MTrPs are and what to do about them." (Note: Devin Starlanyl has no financial interest in this book or in the Blatman Pain Clinic.) [This book is available at: www.winoverpain.com.]

By Joy H. Selak and Steven S. Overman, M.D., M.P.H. (Haworth Medical Press, 2005)

This book offers an insightful account of a patient’s journey through the three stages of chronic illness—getting sick, being sick, and living well. Joy H. Selak poignantly describes her day-to-day experiences with pain and how she copes. She addresses several important aspects of living with chronic pain, such as hiring a doctor, managing chronic pain, and coping with grief and the loss of function. Dr. Steven Overman offers his own personal and medical perspective on the important relationship between doctor and patient. Of this book, Dr. Roberto Patarca-Montero, author of Concise Encyclopedia of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, writes: "A masterful, insightful, and useful account of the patient’s and physician’s perspectives, in their own words and frames of reference, on recognizing, confronting, and dealing with chronic pain…Will benefit not only patients with chronic illness, but also their health care providers and family members." [145 pages, softcover, $14.95 plus shipping/handling. Order online at www.HaworthPress.com or www.amazon.com. Phone: (800) Haworth. Outside the U.S./Canada, phone: (607) 722-5857.]

By Harris H. McIlwain, M.D., and Debra Fulghum Bruce, M.S. (Henry Holt and Company, 2003)

In this newly revised edition of his popular handbook, Dr. McIlwain offers a seven-step program that emphasizes the importance of seeking medical treatment, doing exercise, and decreasing stress to lessen symptoms. He discusses the latest in medications as well as several safe, alternative treatments, including massage, biofeedback, meditation, and herbal therapy. He includes a detailed discussion on good nutrition and offers diet ideas that may prove helpful in planning meals. [208 pages, softcover, $18.00. Available in many bookstores.]

By Sandra Ellen Lefcoe (Xlibris Corporation, 2003)

This book offers a personal account of Ms. Lefcoe’s journey from the difficult days of her diagnosis to the brighter days of coping. While describing fibromyalgia syndrome as a "faceless, sometimes merciless, monster within," Ms. Lefcoe stresses the importance of humor and even laughter when dealing with the many aspects of living every day with chronic pain. As she so eloquently writes, "We may have little or no control over our circumstances, but we do have control over our thoughts. We choose how we will respond to the little things that happen to us." There is much to be learned from Lefcoe’s emotional yet optimistic approach. [167 pages. Trade paperback—$17.84. Hardcover—$27.89. Add shipping and handling. To order, phone (888) 795-4274, or go to the Xlibris bookstore at: www.Xlibris.com.]

By Patricia A. Fennell, M.S.W., C.S.W.-R (New Harbinger Publications, Inc, 2001)

This book explains an innovative, four-phase treatment plan for chronic illness. The comprehensive model provides readers with a guide for living with the difficulties of each of these phases. Several exercises that will help readers accomplish their goals of moving through this model are included. The book also includes several topics of interest: what to look for in a qualified health provider, how to deal with HMOs, and how to use alternative medical care. [239 pages, softcover, $16.95. Available at bookstores or through New Harbinger Publications, 5674 Shattuck Avenue, Oakland, CA 94609-1662. Phone: (800) 748-6273. Fax: (510)652-5472. Website: www.newharbinger.com. Credit cards accepted.]

By Margaret A. Caudill, M.D., Ph.D. (The Guilford Press, 2002)

This newly revised and expanded edition teaches coping skills proven to decrease the discomfort, depression, and anxiety associated with chronic pain. It provides a wide variety of do-it-yourself techniques for dealing with chronic pain, as well as chapters on the psychology and the physiology of pain. While many of the coping strategies described can undoubtedly be found separately in other publications, this is quite a comprehensive collection. Of special interest to FM patients are the breathing exercises, cognitive therapy tasks, and the four-page "Dysfunctional Attitude Survey" which the author indicates should be "very valuable in identifying self-defeating attitudes". [232 pages, softcover, $21.95 plus shipping/handling. Order online at www.guilford.com, or phone: (800) 365-7006.]

By Susan Milstrey Wells (Perseus Publishing, 2000)

Susan Milstrey Wells has done an exceptional job of exploring the many facets of chronic illness in A Delicate Balance. Drawing on a wide range of disciplines, her own history with several medical conditions (including FM), and the insights and experiences of other patients, she takes an honest, unflinching look at chronic illness and the demands it places on us. She skillfully interweaves her own research with the personal narratives of patients, thus keeping the narrative engaging and fresh. Wells is no Pollyanna, however. She puts the ugly sides of chronic illness out into the light where we can all see them yet manages to draw constructive insights that we can take with us into the future. [289 pages, $16.00—U.S., or $24.50—Canada. Available in bookstores and on the publisher’s website: www.perseuspublishing.com.]

By Paul J. Donoghue and Mary Elizabeth Siegel (W.W. Norton & Company, 2000)

This book perfectly describes the anguish of coping with illness that others cannot see and provides understanding and practical guidance for coping. [304 pages, softcover, $10.37 plus shipping/handling at www.amazon.com. Also available at other bookstores.]

By Gregg Pilburn (Arthritis Foundation, 1999)

An inspiring and thought-provoking book that encourages readers, both healthy and ill, to become open, honest, and courageous in dealing with the sensitive and difficult issues surrounding chronic illness. The author shares his experiences and insights with a unique combination of wit and sensitivity. [320 pages, softcover, $9.72 plus shipping/handling. Available at www.amazon.com.]

By Robert O. Uppgaard, D.D.S. (New Harbinger Publications, 2005)

This self help guide offers a thorough, reader-friendly introduction to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain and dysfunction and discusses the inter-relationship between TMJ, myofascial pain syndrome, fibromyalgia, and mandibular whiplash. It is particularly useful in providing a set of conservative, gentle exercises (complete with illustrations) to stretch or strengthen the jaw and surrounding muscles. Also included is information on proper posture, diet, general exercise, and stress management. The previous May 2004 edition has been reprinted with a new section in the introduction entitled, "How To Jump Start Treatment" which teaches the reader three valuable techniques for TMJ management that can be used immediately. Of Uppgaard’s book, John W. Witzig, D.D.S., President of the TMJ Association of America, writes: "This powerful book is the first of its kind and will unravel the mysteries and answer your questions regarding TMJ disorder. It is a virtual goldmine of information about a previously misunderstood problem affecting millions of people." [184 pages, softcover, $14.95. Available at bookstores or online at: www.newharbinger.com.]

By Wesley Shankland, II, D.D.S., Ph.D., with James Boyd, D.D.S., and Devin Starlanyl (Omega Publishing Co., 2000)

Dr. Shankland offers clear explanations of more than two dozen medical/dental conditions which cause pain and other symptoms in the face, head, and neck. He also discusses several benign conditions which can lead to more serious problems. Of particular interest to FM patients are chapters on myofascial pain syndrome, burning mouth syndrome, bruxism, TMJ, and of course, FM, itself. Also included are overviews on trigeminal neuralgia, odontalgia, periodontal pain, neuralgia induced cavitational osteonecrosis, sinusitis, orofacial pain, and a variety of craniofacial pain disorders. Explanations on the clinical features of these disorders are offered in plain language, along with information on diagnosis and treatment approaches. Whether you are trying to narrow down the potential causes of your chronic facial pain or seeking to understand a diagnosis you have already received, this book is an excellent resource. [249 pages, softcover, $21.95 plus $2.50 shipping/handling. Payment may be made by Visa/Mastercard, money order, or cashier’s check (no personal checks, please). Mail order to: Dr. Wesley Shankland, TMJ & Facial Pain Center, 6011 Cleveland Avenue, Columbus, OH 43231. Fax credit card orders to: (614) 794-2291. Order forms are available from Dr. Shankland’s website: www.drshankland.com.]

By Robert Moldwin, M.D., F.A.C.S. (Interstitial Cystitis Association, 2001)

This popular new handbook, written by a member of the medical advisory board of the Interstitial Cystitis Association (ICA), contains the latest treatment options for interstitial cystitis (IC) and a variety of effective coping strategies. Included are: (1) How to obtain an accurate diagnosis; (2) Current medications and their side effects; (3) The role of diet and nutrition; (4) Alternative approaches to managing symptoms; (5) How to deal with painful sex; (6) State-of-the-art surgical techniques…and much more. Also included is a chapter, "Support for the IC Patient", by Vicki Ratner, M.D., Founder, President, and Chief Medical Officer of the ICA. [236 pages, $14.95 plus shipping/handling. To order, visit the ICA's website at: www.ichelp.org, or call: (800) HELP-ICA.]

By Elaine Magee, M.P.H., R.D. (New Page Books, 2000)

Magee not only offers the reader an overview of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), she explains what one can and should eat with IBS—not just the foods that should be avoided. Also included are grocery store and restaurant advice along with recipes. [137 pages, softcover, $11.99. Available at Amazon.com and at www.newpagebooks.com.]

By John A. Senneff (MedPress, 1999)

This book is a detailed exploration of the treatments currently available for peripheral neuropathy (PN), a group of often debilitating disorders which occur when sensory or motor nerves in the peripheral nervous system are damaged. After two introductory chapters which consider the symptoms, diagnostic workups, known causes, and the physiological mechanisms involved in PN, Senneff presents the reader with discussions of available treatments. These include traditional prescription drugs and commonly accepted medical procedures as well as alternative treatments (i.e., biofeedback, acupuncture, therapeutic touch, etc.), nutritional therapy (i.e., herbs, vitamins, minerals, and other supplements), and experimental and "unapproved" treatments. A final chapter also offers information on exercise, diet, sleep, foot care, and more. Of special interest are the narratives he has compiled in which PN sufferers relate their personal experiences, both pro and con, with particular medications or treatment approaches. [289 pages. Softbound edition--$19.95, casebound--$29.95, plus $4.00 shipping/ handling. To order, write: MedPress, P.O. Box 691546, San Antonio, TX 78269. Phone: 888/MED-9898. Website: www.medpress.com. All major credit cards accepted.]

Also from John Senneff: Numb Toes and Other Woes: More on Peripheral Neuropathy (MedPress, 2001) and Nutrients For Neuropathy: How To Use Natural Supplements To Treat The Severe Pain And Other Consequences Of Peripheral Neuropathy (MedPress, 2002).

By Jong Choe, M.D. (Anadem Publishing, Inc., 1999)

For years, women have suffered in silence with the dreaded problem of urinary incontinence. Dr. Choe's approach gives the reader a clear understanding of human anatomy in this part of the body, outlining the areas affected and the types of treatments available for each condition. Director of the Continence Center of the University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Dr. Choe is a nationally recognized authority on incontinence and is widely published in academic journals. While there is no mention of fibromyalgia in the book, FM patients will learn what incontinence is, how a diagnostic workup is done, how medications and treatment devices are used, as well as how to manage diet and exercise. For those who require surgery, options are discussed. This book offers clear and concise information in an easy-to-read format which includes 70 drawings and charts. [238 pages, softcover, $25.20 plus $3.75 shipping/handling per book. Mail check/money order or Visa/Mastercard information to: Anadem Publishing, Inc., 3620 North High Street, Columbus, OH 43214. Phone: (800) 633-0055, or fax: (614) 262-6630, or via the Anadem website: www.anadem.com.]

By Douglas M. Smith, Attorney at Law (Physicians' Disability Services, Inc., Revised 2005)

This valuable workbook answers such questions as: What is Social Security Disability Insurance? How do I prove disability? How do I appeal when benefits are denied? How do I get and organize evidence? How do I monitor my case? How do I respond to continuing disability reviews? Includes worksheets, charts, frequently asked questions, appendices, and more. [141 pages, softcover, $19.95. Available for sale from the National Fibromyalgia Partnership. Send check or money order for $19.95, payable to "NFP, Inc." to: P.O. Box 160, Linden, VA 22642, or order from the NFP website at www.fmpartnership.org (Visa/Mastercard/Discover accepted). Also available for sale at the website of Physicians’ Disability Services: www.disabilityfacts.com.]

Also by Doug Smith: PdS Disability Facts and Social Security Trends, a quarterly newsletter designed to keep you abreast of changes in the laws, regulations, and policies related to Social Security Disability. Published in newsletter format, it offers insights on proving disability, exploring income-increasing opportunities without losing your benefits, and much more. [$19.95/year. Send check/money order to: Physicians' Disability Services, Inc., P.O. Box 827, Arnold, MD 21012, or order online at: www.disabilityfacts.com. ]

By Gayle Backstrom (Amacom, A Division of the American Management Association, 2003)

Gayle Backstrom, author of the popular book, When Muscle Pain Won't Go Away, is back with this comprehensive new work which explores the world of employment for the chronically ill. Several early chapters allow readers to evaluate their working potential in terms of health, self esteem, financial status, existing support systems, as well as work experience, education, and personal knowledge/interests. Guidance is also offered in goal setting and obtaining continuing education and retraining. The book also addresses the pros and cons of the Americans with Disabilities Act; contains a wealth of information on resources like the U.S. Department of Labor, the Job Accommodation Network, the Small Business Administration; and highlights other sources for training, education, vocational rehabilitation, and financial assistance. A helpful discussion of self employment is also included as well as interviews with 20 chronically ill or disabled workers from a variety of backgrounds. [242 pages, softcover, $14.95. Order by phone: (800)714-6397, or at the Amacom website: www.amacombooks.com.]

By David S. Bell, M.D., FAAP; Mary Z. Robinson, M.S.Ed.; Jean Pollard, A.S.; Tom Robinson, M.S., CAS; and Bonnie Floyd, M.A. (The Haworth Medical Press, 1999)

This book is written by a leading expert on CFS/CFIDS along with the mothers and fathers of young people with CFIDS. It not only covers general topics such as symptoms and diagnosis but also addresses personal/family issues such as coping. In addition, it contains a comprehensive discussion of school issues and gives parents suggestions on how to get their children the education they need. The book presents many helpful guidelines including how many school hours a child with CFIDS should take, whether (s)he needs extra time to complete tasks, and how parents can work with their child's school. The appendices are filled with sample letters, tips, and resources. [161 pages, softcover: $17.95. Outside North America $22.00. Send order to: The Haworth Medical Press, Inc., 10 Alice Street, Binghamton, NY 13904-1580. Phone: (800) 429-6784 or (607) 722-5857. Fax: (800) 895-0582 or (607)722-6362. Or visit the Haworth website located at: www.haworthpressinc.com.]

Stretching & Relaxation Tape for Fibromyalgia Patients: This revised program from Sharon Clark, Ph.D., offers a complete stretching program which can even be performed while sitting. Following a warm-up, the video follows four fibromyalgia patients led by a professional exercise instructor. A relaxation session helps you to relax for pain relief and as a sleep aid. A special segment by FM researcher Robert Bennett, M.D., offers an update on understanding the importance of "pain generators" in fibromyalgia. He demonstrates the treatment of myofascial trigger points and improving range of motion with a FM patient.

Aerobic Exercises for FM Patients with Dr. Sharon Clark: This workout designed for individuals with fibromyalgia by exercise physiologist Sharon Clark, Ph.D., includes a complete program of warm-ups, aerobics, cool down, and gentle stretching. The video features two exercise specialists and includes four FM patients with varying discomfort levels who help demonstrate the exercises. A segment by FM researcher Robert Bennett, M.D., explaining why FM patients hurt so much, rounds out this video.

Improving Muscle Tone and Strength: This 75-minute videotape teaches the proper techniques for improving muscle tone and strength. All major muscle groups are exercised with illustrations given to identify muscles to be worked. Exercises are demonstrated by a fitness team and may be performed standing, sitting, or lying down. The video is divided into sections so participants can proceed at a pace that is appropriate for them.

The #1 video of the "Try Your Best" series, this 45-minute video demonstrates the benefits of waterwork in the management of fibromyalgia, offers precautions, shares resource information, and outlines progressive water exercise techniques. It is suitable for instructors, therapists, and persons with FM. Educational material is presented in dialogue and slide format. Mary Essert, an experienced fibromyalgia manager, has trained therapists and instructors worldwide to treat persons with FM effectively through waterwork undertaken in progressively graded programs. [Cost: $20 includes U.S. shipping/handling. Make check/money order payable to: "Essert Assoc." Instructors ordering 12 or more videos may take a 25% discount. Order 24 videos, and get one free. Shipping/handling charges will be billed to you. Mail payment to: Essert Associates at: 3635 Irby Drive, Conway, AR 72934. Videotape orders may also be placed online at: www.maryessert.com/videos.htm.]