Integrative Rheumatology

I found this book about Integrative Rheumatology and others (Cardiology and Gastroenterology) in the Weil Integrative Medicine Library this summer. As background, I have two autoimmune diseases and have experienced serious medical events as a result. Also, I have been frustrated by the silos in Western medicine; one of my autoimmune diseases is a blood disorder that causes heart attacks, pulmonary embolisms, etc. Yet, my rheumatologist points me to hematologist and cardiologists, who then point me back or focus on just treating the heart, with no overall case management.

The book is aimed at medical practitioners, but, as a lay person, found the book clear and understandable, although I often have to look up unfamiliar medical terms.

What is exciting about Integrative care, in general, is that it offers a holistic approach, incorporating Western and Eastern approaches to patient care. For example, diet is one part of the care plan that includes traditional Western drugs along with meditation, exercise, etc. Unfortunately, the one Integrative Rheumatologist in the Chicago area recently left for California to teach. But, one can find useful information in this and other books in the series to supplement traditional healthcare and to consider additional options.