Too Young to Feel Old

October 15, 2007
Blau (director, Arthritis Inst. of Long Island; founding fellow, American Coll. of Rheumatology) has written this book for those suffering from the various forms ofarthritis. He puts forward no magic remedies or silver bullets; instead, he lays out a four-week program designed to alleviate some of the pain associated with arthritis. Blau cautions readers to be skeptical of information they find online touting the value of unproven therapies like glucosamine, copper bracelets, and bee-sting therapy. He offers as alternatives links to reliable site information (e.g., the Arthritis Fdn.) and a series of gentle, purpose-specific exercises (e.g., for wrist strengthening) graded for level of difficulty and including instructional photos. He pairs these exercises with common effective medications, dietary recommendations (e.g., more calcium, fewer refined carbs), and recipes. Blau claims that following both the diet and exercise regimes he espouses will help improve flexibility and reduce weight, therefore quieting symptoms. And, indeed, his advice seems sensible; the menu plans and exercises, beneficial. Purchase this enjoyable book for a general library collection, and perhaps place one copy in the health and wellness section and another with the cookbooks.Elyse Pike, Grey Bruce Health Svcs., Owen Sound, Ont.

Copyright 2007 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.