Book Description

UPDATE: This book has been replaced by Version 3.5 published as Naturopathic Rheumatology (900 pages in full color; ISBN:978-0990620426) with a shorter excerpt published as Functional Medicine Rheumatology (288 pages in color; ISBN: 978-1502481368). Integrative Rheumatology is a clinically-oriented textbook that extends beyond Integrative Orthopedics to outline treatment plans for autoimmune and systemic inflammatory disorders. Since approximately 1 of every 7 (14% of total) visits to a primary healthcare provider is for the treatment of musculoskeletal pain or dysfunction, every physician needs to have 1) knowledge of important concepts related to musculoskeletal medicine, 2) awareness of urgent and emergency conditions, 3) skills to competently perform orthopedic examination procedures and clinical assessments, 4) ability to interpret common laboratory tests, and 5) the knowledge and ability to design and implement effective treatment plans. Integrative Rheumatology empowers students and doctors with the insight necessary for the design and implementation of truly integrative treatment plans for conditions such as systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Diagnostic, therapeutic, risk reduction and patient management strategies are emphasized throughout. Students in chiropractic and naturopathic medical colleges will find Integrative Rheumatology to provide a needed blend of concepts as well as the practical how to information on patient management that is often neglected in other textbooks or which can only be obtained after years of clinical experience. This book will help you synthesize your courses in physical examination, manipulation, physiotherapy, nutrition, botanical medicine, neurology and therapeutic exercise into a cohesive set of skills that enables you to effectively help your patients overcome their musculoskeletal problems while you simultaneously promote wellness by looking at the bigger picture of their overall health rather than simply focusing on the problem. Integrative Rheumatology provides the information and citations to the research literature that you need in order to feel confident about your skills and the responsibilities that you will face as a healthcare provider. Clinicians of all disciplines whether ND, DC, DO, Lac, MD, PA, or NP will find the blend of research and clinical pearls helpful in their integrative management of patients with systemic autoimmune and rheumatic disorders. The text is abundantly referenced to textbooks and peer-reviewed biomedical journals. Integrative Rheumatology will give you a clinical advantage and the research justification to help treat your patients in the most natural, safe, and holistic means possible. Accessing the website provides links to updates and recently published articles by Dr. Vasquez. Update 2014: This book has been replaced by "Integrative Rheumatology and Inflammation Mastery: Third Edition."