This clearly written self-care manual by Nelson (Strong Women Stay Young), director of the Center for Physical Fitness at Tufts University, and her colleagues Baker, Roubenoff and Lindner should be a boon to arthritis sufferers. The authors conducted a controlled study at Tufts on 46 older adults who suffered from osteoarthritis of the knee. According to their report, after following a 16-week strength training program, the participants experienced significant reduction in pain and improved physical function and strength, all of which debunks the myth that arthritis sufferers should rest to ease their pain. The program, detailed in this book, is composed of flexibility exercises, aerobic activities and conservative weight lifting, and is also adapted for those who have other types of osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. In addition, a nutritionally sound "arthritis diet" that includes vitamin and mineral supplements is recommended. The authors also provide extremely helpful explanations of the pros and cons of various arthritis medications and alternative therapies, as well as an informed discussion of joint replacement surgery. While the exercise and nutritional program requires a serious commitment, even casual readers should find useful information here. (Apr.)
