Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is major cause of disability affecting about 1% of the population. "Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis" examines the nature of RA and its treatment, and individual's experience of RA and its symptoms of pain and stiffness. An overall understanding of the impact of RA on quality of life is presented as well as the role of the health care professionals and encounters with the doctor, all of which influence the individual's behavior toward their RA.

The book will be an invaluable aid to the considerable number of people who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, their families, carers and all health professionals involved in its treatment.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a major cause of disability affecting about 1% of the population. Although much effort has been expended on research into the causes and cures of RA, little progress has been made. The focus of treatment in RA is on reducing the disabling consequences of the disease and controlling the symptoms. Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis examines the nature of RA and its symptoms of pain and stiffness. The role of health care professionals and the individual's encounters with the doctor are important to understand as these experiences influence the individual's behaviour and understanding of their RA. This book will be an invaluable aid to the considerable number of people who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, their families, carers and all health professionals involved in its treatment.

Chapter 1 Introduction; Chapter 2 The disorder and its treatment; Chapter 3 The experience of rheumatoid arthritis; Chapter 4 Pain and stiffness; Chapter 5 Quality of life; Chapter 6 Patient-physician relationships; Chapter 7 Coping with rheumatoid arthritis; Chapter 8 Social support and family relationships; Chapter 9 Psychological therapies;

Stanton Newman is Professor of Health Psychology at University College Medical School, University of London, Ray Fitzpatrick is a Fellow at Nuffield College and University Lecturer in the Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Oxford, Tracey A.Revenson is Associate Professor of Psychology at the Graduate School and University Center, City University, New York, Suzanne Skevington is Senior Lecturer in Psychology at the School of Social Sciences, University of Bath, Gareth Williams is Reader in Sociology of Health and Illness at the Institute of Social Research, University of Salford.