War on Pain
I read this book because I had a consult by Dr. Fishman for my chronic myofascial pain syndrome, fibromyalgia and migraines and came away worse for even having had the consult. This doctor may know how to write about pain and how to treat it, but did not practice what he preaches. His insinuation was that it was "all in my head and a good meditation program would probably cure everything" I have. I came away with more psychological suffering that added insult to injury.
6 months later I had shoulder surgery for bone spurs (very real pain) and I'm sure that would not have responded to meditation. I had to read the book to try to understand why he would treat me this way and to validate my own pain experience. It was a good book to read, but I'm still frustrated with my experiences with physicians.
there is hope
Many times people are injured only to find that nobody cares. As people get passed from doctor to doctor information is lost. Soon the cure becomes another disease...until you find the one doctor who cares enough to listen. The body has amazing powers to heal itself. When you restore hope, then you have started the healing process.
Inside there are tons of great amazing medical nugets which I found fascinating.
Comprehensive Yet Readable
Any sufferer of chronic pain knows the frustration of trying to communicate to others how pain seeps into every aspect of your daily life. Too many doctors ignore the patient's pain because long term suffering may be incurable, but that does not mean it is not treatable. This doctor understands that acknowledgement can bring relief and is an advocate of having the patient take an active role in seeking relief with everything from brand new drugs and technologies to alternative medicine. This book will educate you so you can better seek relief with your doctor. A lot has changed in the last decade and now almost everyone with chronic paid can get considerable relief as I found out when I thought I had run out of options. I read this book from the library, then bought the book so I could have my family read it. This is a very valuable book.
Read this book and have your MD read it too.
Dr. Fishman presents information in an easy to read, caring manner. This books not only provides education, but also illustrates how some doctors really do listen. It is a great reference guide to have and an important book to read before you go to a pain clinic.. This book will help patients and family members be able to better advocate for services and treatments. Pain clinic doctors, primary care physicians, and medical students should read it to help them avoid providing the the same menu of treatment for any patient who walks in their door. Thank You Dr. Fishman for a informative and hopeful book!
War on useless books
I heard Dr. fishman on public radio and got excited that maybe there was hope for my chronic pain. After finishing the book I realized this guy is only out to sell a book and promote his practice. The book was a waste of time and money and gave me more reason to be depressed. He offers little information that will give any hope of curing pain. In the end you walk away from reading it with the feeling that it is hopeless. So don't even bother wasting the thousands of dollars it takes to get tested and prodded because in the end you will never be cured. Save your money and buy some other book amazon has in its vast arsenal that will get your mind off of your pain
