Arthritis Life

Dr. Stamatos explains why fibromyalgia is absolutely real, how it commonly overlaps with inflammatory diseases like RA, and what’s actually happening in the brain, nerves, and spinal fluid of people with fibromyalgia. She offers practical guidance for telling the difference between an RA flare and a fibromyalgia flare, explains why opioids often make fibromyalgia pain worse, and reframes treatment as a whole-person, multi-tool approach, not a single pill, diet, or supplement. This conversation is especially powerful if you’ve ever felt dismissed, blamed, or overwhelmed by mixed messages about pain, fatigue, brain fog, sleep, or mental health. You’ll walk away feeling validated, better informed, and more confident in navigating life with both conditions.Episode at a glance:Why fibromyalgia is a real, biologically based condition (and what the science actually shows) How common fibromyalgia is in people with RA and other chronic illnesses What functional MRI, nerve studies, and spinal fluid research reveal about fibromyalgia pain Why opioids often worsen pain sensitivity in fibromyalgia instead of helping How trauma, prolonged untreated pain, and stress can “turn on” fibromyalgia Practical ways to tell the difference between RA inflammation vs fibromyalgia pain The critical role of sleep, mental health, and stress regulation in pain management Why fibromyalgia treatment is a constellation of strategies, not a magic fix A compassionate explanation of catastrophizing — and how to work with uncertainty How to explain fibromyalgia to friends and family (including the Spoon Theory) Trusted resources for learning more, including The Chronic Pain Reset by Dr Afton HassettMedical disclaimer: All content found on Arthritis Life public channels (including Rheumer Has It) was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.Episode SponsorsRheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Cheryl shares the origin story of the podcast, how it has evolved over time, and why storytelling remains at the center of her mission: helping people feel less alone, more informed, and more empowered to live well alongside chronic illness.Cheryl then walks through nine core themes that keep resurfacing across these conversations, including: validation and belonging, coping with uncertainty, the power of community, navigating medication decisions, redefining “normal,” and why self-compassion, acceptance, identity, and joy still matter after diagnosis. This episode is an honest reflection on what it really means to “thrive” with arthritis, not as a one-size-fits-all outcome, but as a deeply personal, evolving process rooted in realistic hope, credible information, and human connection. Episode at a glance:01:31 The Origin Story of the Podcast06:27 Challenges and Reflections on Running the Podcast13:50 Nine Core Themes from 200 Episodes14:04 Theme 1: You Are Not Alone17:12 Theme 2: The Challenge of Uncertainty20:28 Theme 3: The Power of Community22:41 Theme 4: The Importance of Credible Education26:35 Theme 5: Emotional Medication Decisions29:01 Theme 6: Redefining Normal30:52 Theme 7: Acceptance and Self-Compassion32:58 Theme 8: RA as a Whole Life Condition33:59 Theme 9: Identity, Purpose, and JoyMedical disclaimer: All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.Episode SponsorsRheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Cheryl and Carrie discuss Carrie's diagnosis of hip dysplasia which led to osteoarthritis, her hip replacement surgeries in 2022 and 2023, and her experience running the Boston Marathon. Carrie emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy, having a strong support and care team, and setting mini goals during recovery. They also candidly talk about the emotional struggle with post-marathon blues and how time, support, and new goals helped Carrie overcome it. Overall, Carrie aims to give hope to others facing similar medical challenges.Episode at a glance:Carrie’s Arthritis and Double Hip Replacement Journey: Cheryl and Carrie discuss Carrie’s arthritis diagnosis and how that led to having double hip replacements.Carrie’s Experience Running the Boston Marathon: Carrie shares her experience of running in the Boston Marathon in April 2025. The Importance of Self-Advocacy and a Support Team: Cheryl and Carrie discuss the importance of advocating for yourself and having a strong support system to help you overcome challenges.Medical disclaimer: All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.Episode SponsorsRheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dr. Andonian, a Duke rheumatologist and lifestyle medicine expert, dives into the powerful role of exercise in managing rheumatoid arthritis. He debunks myths around fragility, emphasizing that tailored exercise boosts immune health and combats accelerated aging. Listeners discover the importance of personalized workout plans, the concept of 'exercise snacks', and how gentle movement can alleviate fatigue. Dr. Andonian also highlights that exercise operates like medicine, potentially reducing medication dependence while enhancing overall health.

 She explains the key role nurse practitioners play in rheumatology and highlights the lifestyle habits, like movement and nutrition, that have made a real difference in her own health. Cayla also offers practical advice for communicating with healthcare providers and supporting yourself after a new diagnosis.Her story is an inspiring reminder that living well with a chronic illness is not only possible, but achievable.Episode at a glance:Cayla’s personal journey with axial spondyloarthritis and the challenges of getting diagnosed youngHow nurse practitioners support patients in rheumatologyLifestyle tools Cayla uses to manage her condition, including exercise and nutritionTips for communicating effectively with healthcare providersEncouragement and practical advice for those newly diagnosedInsight into living a full, meaningful life while managing chronic illnessMedical disclaimer: All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.Episode SponsorsRheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

They also reflect on new insights into mental health, cognitive dysfunction, and  the importance of the microbiome as part of lifestyle interventions. This episode offers hope, practical advice, and the latest research to help manage your condition more effectively.Episode at a glance:00:00 Introduction to Rheumer Has It00:30 Importance of the ACR Annual Conference03:02 Sessions on Patient Health Literacy and Support Groups07:10 Dietary Interventions and Microbiome Research10:54 Mental Health and Fatigue in Rheumatic Diseases15:50 Innovative Treatments: CAR T-Cell Therapy and Vagus Nerve Stimulation19:50 GLP-1 Medications and Their Benefits25:23 Cognitive Dysfunction in Rheumatic Diseases29:22 Spotlight on Sjogren's Disease31:50 Conclusion and Key TakeawaysMedical disclaimer: All content found on Arthritis Life public channels (including Rheumer Has It) was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.Episode SponsorsRheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

They share words of wisdom for individuals newly diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, emphasizing kindness, self-compassion, and love. Helen also discusses the highlights of her experience in the Rheum to THRIVE program and how it helped her adjust to her new normal. Helen also shares how using the PERMA model from positive psychology (Positive emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning & Accomplishment) helps keep her life and condition manageable. She encourages taking it day by day and continuously asking oneself how to love and support oneself through the journey. This episode is a great reminder for anyone with chronic illnesses to focus on self-love to navigate the challenges of the condition.Episode at a glance:Helen’s Journey with Arthritis: Helen describes diagnosis and treatment journey as gloriously imperfect.Self Compassion: Helen and Cheryl discuss how having self-compassion is a great coping mechanism for those with chronic illnesses.PERMA Model: Cheryl and Helen discuss what the PERMA model is and how it can be helpful in chronic illness management.Rheum to THRIVE: Cheryl and Helen discuss Helen’s experience with the Rheum to THRIVE support group.Medical disclaimer: All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.Episode SponsorsRheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

They discuss how they became Rheum Champions, their personal journeys with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, PCOS, and more, and the importance of community and support. The episode also highlights significant takeaways from the meeting, including research updates, the passion of the researchers, and the heartwarming sense of community.  This podcast serves as a powerful reminder of how important it is to integrate the patient voice into rheumatology research.   *This episode was originally recorded for the My Spoonie Sisters podcast. Episode at a glance:00:00 Welcome to the Rheum Champions Tell All01:59 Introducing the Rheum Champions03:55 Sharing Our Stories: The Journey to Advocacy07:13 The Impact of Community and Support10:55 Becoming a Rheum Champion16:09 Highlights from the 2025 Investigators Meeting24:52 Final Thoughts and How to Get InvolvedMedical disclaimer: All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.Episode SponsorsRheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Beyond her personal battle, Deb has established a global support group for those with osteonecrosis and actively participates in the Arthritis Foundation's Live Yes! Connect groups. Highlighting the power of community support and advocacy, Deb's story is an inspiring testament to resilience and the importance of helping others navigate similar health challenges.Episode at a glance:Deb’s Journey: Cheryl and Deb discuss Deb’s journey with osteoarthritis and osteonecrosis.The Power of Community: Deb shares how having a community is important for support and connection in the chronic illness world.Deb’s Support Groups: Cheryl and Deb discuss Deb’s global support groups and the Arthritis Foundation’s Live Yes! Connect groups. Medical disclaimer: All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.Episode SponsorsRheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dr. Edens debunks common misconceptions, such as vaccines causing autoimmune diseases or always triggering flares. She explains that while mild immune responses are normal, serious complications are extremely rare and the benefits far outweigh the risks. Dr Edens emphasizes that vaccines not only prevent infections but also certain cancers, making them an essential part of care for immunosuppressed patients. The discussion also explores vaccine timing with medications, the dangers of misinformation, and how to talk about vaccine hesitancy with empathy and evidence.Episode at a glance:Guest Expert: Dr. Cuoghi Edens, dual-trained adult and pediatric rheumatologist at the University of Chicago.Myth #1: “Natural is better than vaccines” — Debunked; vaccines dramatically reduce child and adult mortality from infectious diseases.Myth #2: “Vaccines cause autoimmune diseases” — Overwhelming evidence shows they do not.Myth #3: “Vaccines always cause flare-ups” — Possible but uncommon; most patients tolerate vaccines well, and disease prevention outweighs brief discomfort.Risk–Benefit Balance: Vaccines protect against infections and cancers (HPV, hepatitis B) that can worsen or complicate autoimmune diseases.Timing & Medications: ACR guidelines suggest coordination with treatments like rituximab and high-dose steroids, but partial protection is better than none.Health Literacy Tip: “Doing research” means reviewing credible scientific evidence—not social-media opinions or cherry-picked studies.Social Stigma: Addresses misinformation, polarization, and “anti-vax” rhetoric, highlighting the need for compassion and critical thinking.Trusted Resources: Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia vaccine education site and American College of Rheumatology guidelines.Key Takeaway: Vaccines are safe, vital, and empowering tools for people with autoimmune diseases.Medical disclaimer: All content found on Arthritis Life public channels (including Rheumer Has It) was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.Episode SponsorsRheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now! Full Episode Show Notes:Go to the episode page on the Arthritis Life website for full details including a transcript and video!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.