Ankylosing spondylitis: an underrepresented autoimmune disease

Ankylosing spondylitis: an underrepresented autoimmune disease

Ankylosing spondylitis is more than a stiff back or “everyone’s tired.” It is an underrepresented autoimmune condition that often goes unnamed for years. In this post, I share what AS actually is, how it shows up in real life, why diagnosis is so slow, and how to support people living with it in practical ways.

Is my body a battlefield? Understanding autoimmune disease

Is my body a battlefield? Understanding autoimmune disease

Autoimmune diseases involve the immune system attacking healthy tissues. This post looks at the complexities of diagnosis, the history of understanding these conditions, and the daily struggles faced by those affected. It also explores promising future treatments and the critical need for empathy and education.

Why am I so exhausted after total knee replacement surgery?

Why am I so exhausted after total knee replacement surgery?

Profound fatigue after total knee replacement is common, stemming from surgical stress, pain, medications, and sleep disruption. This post explores the reasons behind this exhaustion, highlighting modern approaches to fatigue management, including rest, pain control, nutrition, and mental wellness. It also previews future advancements in personalized recovery plans, emphasizing the importance of self-compassion and open communication with healthcare providers to regain energy and quality of life.

How music stimulates your vagus nerve (even if your ear is wonky)

How music stimulates your vagus nerve (even if your ear is wonky)

Music can stimulate your vagus nerve, promoting relaxation and reducing stress. But if you have Meniere’s disease or sound sensitivity, not all sounds work. Luckily, deep bass, slow rhythms, and even humming can help—no binaural beats required! Here’s how to use music to activate your vagus nerve, even with hearing challenges.

Frozen shoulder – what a pain!

Frozen shoulder – what a pain!

It started as a cold feeling in my arm. It felt like I was sitting in a draft, but there was no open window or door, no cold air coming into the room. Shortly after, I noticed my arm felt really heavy. I was worried that I’d had a heart attack, but when I...