A Special Message to those who suffer hardships from arthritis
from the director of Artrhitis Education for Professionals, Jan Revella, R.N.

   Modern medicine is making great strides in the diagnosis and treatment of arthritis. We are more aware than ever about the deep impact arthritis can have on the day-to-day lives of people and families who are affected.

   Through years of research, we have proven that you, the person with arthritis, can make a difference in how arthritis affects your life. By designing an effective treatment plan based on your own needs and goals, you will make a positive difference in your quality of life. If necessary, you may choose to build a "treatment team" that might include a primary care physician, rheumatologist, orthopaedic surgeon, physical therapist, nutritionist or counselor. Even if you can manage your condition with minimal assistance, simply becoming educated will help you make better choices in your day-to-day living.

   Normally, you might expect your rheumatologist or primary care physician to be the "captain" of your treatment team. However, you can have a more positive impact on how arthritis affects your life by appointing yourself "team captain." With recommendations from your physician and other team members, you can choose your course of treatment. You are the one who ultimately decides how you will live your life. Through education, you can feel comfortable making these choices.

   I have been a strong proponent of arthritis education for more than 25 years, was an early pioneer in the team approach to managing and arthritis. I have worked with arthritis experts and other medical professionals to develop a systematic team approach that has produced positive results for thousands of people with arthritis. My practical and caring approach will help you understand your arthritis better and realize success in achieving an active lifestyle. You will receive the support you need to succeed in "Feeling Good With Arthritis."

   The more you know about your disease, the more you will be in control of your treatment program. You cannot leave everything up to the physician. The old adage "My physician knows what's best" is not applicable in the treatment of arthritis. Your physician recommends what he or she thinks is best for you, but you must share responsibility for your care and take action on your own behalf to choose your treatment course. Think of yourself, your physician and arthritiseducation.com all as partners working toward a common goal: "Feeling Good With Arthritis."

   This Web site, arthritiseducation.com, and all of our "Feeling Good With Arthritis" services are here for you to provide education, inspiration and compassion as you develop your arthritis treatment plan. We will provide you the direction you need, and help you understand the disease so that you can make the decisions that are best for you.

The process begins with your commitment. I look forward to hearing from you.