DR. OZ AND FIBROMYALGIA – HOW HE GOT IT WRONG
Did you see the discussion on fibromyalgia on Dr. Oz last week?
I must confess – I never would have seen it without all the pre-show hullabaloo on Facebook. Very well-meaning friends and colleagues contacted me repeatedly asking if I planned to watch.
Since I don’t watch Dr. Oz (or much TV in general), I needed coercion. I finally realized that if my clients and the fibromyalgia community were going to be talking about it, then I needed to see it.
If you haven’t seen it for yourself, check out the Fibromyalgia Episode of Dr. Oz here.
First, the good things. It’s pretty darned powerful to have news on any particular health concern blasted to millions of TV viewers. There’s often quite a bit of grumbling in the fibromyalgia blog-o-sphere that fibro is rudely ignored by the media. Unless, of course, we count the silly references made on TV shows such as House and movies such as Identity Thief (that’s another post for another day).
It was also good to see the segment of the show that represented fibromyalgia “visually.” Sure, Dr. Oz’s representations were hokey (but did you really expect Hollywood-style CG effects?), but they adequately showed what the amplified pain of fibromyalgia “feels” like.
The burning question of the week:
Did Dr. Oz cover this topic satisfactorily? Was this a Thumb’s Up or a Thumb’s Down performance?
Here’s my take…
When it comes to Dr. Oz, PERFORMANCE is the operative word. It’s a SHOW. High ratings translating into advertising dollars is the focus. That’s not a judgment on his intentions; it’s simply a fact. His “job” is to create a buzz that builds a hype that generates interest for his advertisers. I have nothing against Dr. Oz, as he clearly “gets” edutainment. It’s TV – not rocket science. Just suspend your belief that all health-challenges should be resolved in a 60 minute time slot. Therefore, the real question here is – was there enough resolution to satisfy? I think not.
Building on the theme of theatrics, there were so many grandiose and over-the-top quotes in this show, that I’m still shaking my head. In fact this episode may have created its own entry for the next edition of the DSM – the syndrome of Shaking Head Health Hypothesis – (abbreviated as shhh)!
Here was Dr. Oz’s opening line: Fibromyalgia is the most controversial diagnosis out there. Seriously? THE most controversial? Give me a nano-second on Google to find a few more to add to the mix. He went on to say that women “complain” about it, but is it really real. Good heavens.
Even worse, what do you think about this one?
Fibromyalgia is life threatening?!?!
After a conveniently-placed commercial break, clarification of this statement was made. It was said that — for fibromyalgia patients — our quality of life is compromised, therefore, it’s life threatening. In my book, FibroWHYalgia, I state that fibromyalgia is lifeSTYLE threatening, not life threatening. BIG difference.
Because this post could go on forever, here are 11 more Head Shaker topics listed in no particular order. I’ve taken pains to be brief.
Thumb’s Down – Dr. Oz and Fibromyalgia– Three visits to get diagnosed? Seriously? It took me more than a decade, more than a dozen different specialists, and who knows how many actual doctor visits to obtain my diagnosis. Apparently this is a “Your Mileage May Vary” issue.
– Spending an inordinate amount of precious air time articulating that fibromyalgia is “real.” No duh. Can we move on to something helpful? There is clearly ample medical evidence that proves that fibromyalgia is real.
– Consistently calling fibromyalgia a disease. It’s a syndrome. For me, personally, I don’t care. But, I got annihilated (via email) once for inadvertently calling it a disease on a radio interview four years ago. I’m now returning the sentiment.
– Hijacking the show halfway through to explore another, unrelated topic. Just as it seemed we were getting somewhere (like possibly revealing actual HELPFUL treatment options for fibromyalgia), the show segued into a superficial (literally) topic – skin care and anti-aging.
– After painting the picture of how frustrating, painful, and difficult fibromyalgia is to deal with, just a few (weak) treatment solutions were offered. Feeling “left hanging” was the consensus of opinion from those I polled on social media sites.
– Skipping over the enormous impactful issues of inflammation, nutrition, infections, toxins, body movement, stress, and emotional wellness.
– Slim pickin’ offerings on what specialists to see (standard rheumatologist and neurologist). Nothing new here.
– A strange demonstration of Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment. While this may be helpful, it’s far from being a typical treatment and at best, would augment other treatments.
– No explanation on what Osteopathic Manipulation Treatment is and how it relates to chiropractic treatment. Or does it?
– No holistic, whole body treatment solutions (big surprise).
– No mention of proven beneficial whole body strategies such as tai chi, yoga, fitness routines, etc.
Because there’s so much left to explore on this issue, stay tuned to next week’s post where I’ll interview two experts on their opinions on fibromyalgia treatments, Osteopathic Manipulation, and other topics. I’m sure I’ll also add information based on the feedback provided by YOU in the comments section below.
Did you feel let down by Dr. Oz’s coverage of fibromyalgia treatments? Start the discussion here!
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Don’t miss out on the continued conversation! Check out Part 2 of this post HERE.
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Interested in co-creating your own program to heal from the inside out? Check out Sue’s Rebuilding Wellness site – and click on the Work With Sue tab to learn more.
I totally agree. Heard all the hype and made a concerted effort to record the show.
The lady who finally got a doctor to validate that she wasn’t crazy really caught my attention. She quoted him as saying that now he was going to make her better/fix her. Sorry…I have Fibrofog so don’t remember the exact wording.
Right there I was left scratching my head. What medical professional makes any claims that they CAN help you? I haven’t had any that do anything except look at me quizzically. But..I waited to see what it was that he offered her. Correct me if I’m wrong, but we never heard what treatment got her functioning.
The only positive was that Dr. Oz looked/sounded authentically compassionate. Nice, but not helpful.
Sherry – you’re right in that the interview with the patient also left us hanging. The solutions she was offered, or perhaps she’s using – are left as a mystery to us. You’re right in that Dr. Oz looked compassionate and I think he’s really got that “look” down!
I have to agree with the majority here, he did give it some attention, but way to little on the realaties of this condition. Such as not being able to work, function , no help in trying to direct people to find ways to help themselves with. Also going to the next segment of the show that had nothing to do with Fibro. I don’t know about the majority on here, but my fibro is not under control. They make it look like you can just get better my doing a few exercise will help and changing your diet., NOt! Wish they would go in to more detail and have someone on who is suffering, and has tried everything to no avail. Maybe we will get more if we express ourselves.
It makes you realize how little even the doctors understand what we are going through. He really didn’t seem to have a clue the depth of suffering and the seriousness of this illness we live with every day. He really seemed like he didn’t have a clue or he wouldn’t have handled it in such a trivializing way.
Thanks for your input, Lorre! It seems to be the general consensus, here.
Thank you for voicing what so many of us already were thinking after watching the show. It left me annoyed that Dr Oz would seem like it was a frivolous illness that can be cured in no time. I just saw a promo I believe is a repeat of the show..not sure, they said they would be talking about treatments which they really skipped over on the first show, except for the OCM, which would have been extremely painful for me to go through. Even the model looked uncomfortable and who knows if she was a Fibro sufferer.
Let’s face it, until Lyrica’s patent is up nobody will do anything about Fibromyalgia. We are in limbo in the medical community, and I called my Dr. out on it and I got a look from him like “you are so right”! I knew that segment was going to be no good. Dr. Oz doesn’t get it himself.
We have generic pregabalin here in Canada. Just came out as an FYI to my fellow Canadian Fibro Warriors.
Please ask your Dr. about neurontin (gabapentin) I’ve taken this for years and have had good results. When the patent ran out on neurontin, which was developed for seizures, they had discovered that it was helping fibromyalgia patients and could stop restless legs and diabetic neuropathy. (I had this too). So they took this drug, added something to it, and called it LYRICA!
Check it out, ask your Dr.
Good luck! And save this information, because the FOG may set in…
Candy (Have had fibro since 1988, wasn’t diagnosed until 1993…. sigh)
Thanks for sharing, Candy. While I have no experience with the medications you mention, I appreciate you taking the time to share your own experiences!
I agree with Sue and everyone. Knowing I was not going to be able to watch Dr. Oz I Taped it. I sat down and boy was I disapointed! We were lucky if Fibromyalgia got 15 minutes. It did not cover anything real.
This seems to be the common theme. We were all very excited to see that our voices were heard. Then when we actually watched, we felt that we weren’t really heard after all. While we’re grateful for the episode airing in the first place – most of us do wish that it had more substance.
It is a re-airing from last year, nothing new for Dr. Oz. Should have aired something new on it like that they have a blood test for it now and what research is doing since last year. But what ever.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=22RnVGmgn7M
Hi Sue,
I watched this episode and I have to say that I was kind of disgusted with Dr Oz’s performance. He had a great opportunity to help millions of people suffering from fibromyalgia and I think he blew it. I was most annoyed by Dr Oz and his guest doctor glossing over the diet aspect. I can’t remember exactly what was said, but I was surprised to hear the guest say that a healthy diet can help some people but there was not much research to support it. Very disappointing.
I started my new diet and fitness lifestyle three years ago and I still have no signs of fibromyalgia (as long as I behave). I learned this from YOU. I still thank God everyday for FibroWHYalgia. There is no telling how sick I may still be if it weren’t for you. Thank you for all that you do and all that you’ve done. I continue to spread the word about your book because it can help so many people. I definitely can’t say that about Dr Oz.
Wow Carly — I’m honored to be mentioned in the same blog comment as Dr. Oz and doubly honored that you value what I’ve shared. Healing (from the inside out) has been my personal experience and that of many, many, others. That fact may not be getting media attention but it’s happening nonetheless. Thanks so much for eloquently helping to make that point. Nutrition matters. Fitness matters. Emotional wellness (stress-relief) matters. It’s as simple as that.
I have yet to watch the Dr Oz show. My husband has saved it for me. I am pretty sure the reason I have not taken the time to watch it is because it will just make me feel bad. Mad and helpless.
I am a fybro person so is my daughter. We have enough trouble with those feelings already. I knew he would get it wrong. I will watch it one day so when my family and friends want to talk about it I will be a much better advocate for myself and the fybro community.
I just need to be in the right frame of mind to deal with all the fall out that this show will cause for me.
Geraldine — maybe you’ll be pleasantly surprised. I don’t think there’s anything wrong or depressing about the show. There are just so many helpful things that weren’t discussed. He did a good job of creating “validation” for fibromyalgia, but was extremely slim on the treatments or solutions.
He also didn’t cover the new scientific information that are brains and brain chemistry work differently, that our substance P is high and that we have 3 times the nerve endings in our skin. Very disappointing effort on his part.
Good points, Marsha – and those topics would have been up his alley. I sure would have liked to choose the guests for this show and the experts. That would be interesting!
Sue, you hit it on the head when you brought up the marketing aspect. People tend to forget that anything they watch is geared towards how many dollars the network can make by selling advertising space.
I think the biggest “boo boo” here was saying that this syndrome is “life threatening” …why scare people like that? Is it because of the ratings.
I don’t watch daytime TV so I admit I’ve never seen his show. I’ve heard of Dr. Oz of course and my impression is that he is a good guy that wants to inform people. Question: Did he offer any good takeaways during his presentation about fibromyalgia?
Gerry – you’re so right. The issue is whether or not we felt educated and had good takeaways. For me, that answer was NO. Perhaps it was different for others. Fibromyalgia is dramatic enough without stirring the pot with dramatic phrases intended to shock and surprise 😉
I don’t watch Dr. Oz but read your article. He is right: It IS life threatening. Not directly but indirectly because the immune system is so exhausted that you are open to many other issues. Cancer is a very real threat because of low Natural Killers, low vitamin D levels, the overall state of inflammation (which triggers growth of cancer cells) and other linked deficiencies/imbalances.
I had Fibromyalgia and healed myself by eating 100% raw after being sent home by the dear doctor specialists, who told me to figure something out myself. So I did and I am damn happy that I was a stubborn patient who didn’t believe their statement that “nothing” can be done. I have my life back (I wasn’t able to do anything anymore with the combination CFS/Fibro), studied again and became a raw food coach to help others.
There IS hope but you won’t get it from the doctors, neither any useful solution. You have to take your own responsibility and change your diet and lifestyle. But that goes for any syndrome or disease really. Be your own doctor by learning to understand your body, thinking logical and applying what you know.
Marie-Claire – always good to share the great news of health & healing. So glad you’ve healed and share your experience with others!
I agree with the bit about the immune system, I have been downright sick with “standard” illnesses so many times instead of just not feeling well, and even simple colds just flatten me. I’ve developed pneumonia several times and been laid up for literally weeks. I often get in trouble when I do go to a doctor, so many times I’ve heard “Why didn’t you come in sooner?” My standard reply of “l didn’t know I was sick” has been met with blank stares, looks of disbelief, and the “Are you nuts?” look.
I do not think the show did anything but bring attention to the issue. It did not offer any real help for the problem and did not tell me anything that I did not already know. In Dr. Oz’s defense he has shown yoga, mind-body techniques and relaxation techniques on other shows many times. He discusses healthy diets often. I have learned that you have to weed thru all the hype to get anything of value from his and other shows like his. But that said I was disappointed and felt as if the whole show should have been devoted to this issue.
Hi Sue thanks for your take on the Dr. Oz show about fibromyalgia. I like the dr. Oz show, I don’t watch it often, but I do get some good information from time to time. However, I would have to give that segment a thumbs down. Much of it seemed rehearsed and did not get to the true meat of the matter. Although the norm is to say you must have pain and fatigue for over 3 months with “normal” test results lets not forget those. There are so many people out there who are working hard and are stressed out who get pain and fatigue simply because they are just tired and need a holiday. Fibromyalgia is so much more than the pain and fatigue (for me it is anyway) and I was not happy with the way it was generalized.
If he wants to do a show on this condition, he should dedicate the whole show the full hour, or even 2 shows talking to more specialists and more people like yourself, who live it and breathe it everyday, and those who find ways to cope.
On the other hand I thought it was a good Idea to give it some attention and get more awareness and conversations going.
Kelly — thanks so much for your thoughtful comment. Yep – awareness is helpful and we do have to take the good with the bad. The fact that this is stirring up conversation is all good!
Sue,
I agree. While it was nice to have Dr. Oz speak favorably about the validity of Fibromyalgia, I was disappointed that he used Dr. Sean Mackey minimally. This man really understands this syndrome. There is a lot of new reasearch out there as well as Intidyn’s discovery about the AV shunts in our hands. Was it touched on? No.
I watched the manipulation and if it was a pain flare day for me, I would have jumped off the table. I didnt get that at all.
Basically, it seemed disjointed… fragmented.
Rosemary Lee
Seeking Equilibrium
What is the AV shunt? Is it about the itchy palms or the pain?
If dr oz would have given some useful pointers instead of repeatedly just saying the word “fibromyalgia ” like he was casting a spell, maybe it would
Have been useful. He said the same things I heard when I was officially diagnosed in 1992. Nothing new. Sad, with all his money and resources he couldn’t have done a full episode and made it comprehensive. I was very disappointed.
Lisa — interesting perspective. There was a 90’s flavor to the info 😉
After watching the show, I did feel left to wonder a lot of things. It took me almost 13 years to get diagnosed and know there is no “fix” to it. What did the interviewee do for her fibro? It isn’t as cut and dry as it was portrayed on the show, either. Each one of us have different sensations each day and what was put on the screen sounded like Chronic fatigue too. It was nice to have Dr. Oz get some media attention, but it fell short of actually helping anyone. disappointed with the show.
Michelle
I agree with many of your points and am overall happy that fibromyalgia is getting more notice.
I have your book and definitely agree with much of it and it has been beneficial for me.
However, I very much disagree with the statement that fibromyalgia is not life threatening. When the lady on the show said that it IS, it brought tears to my eyes because I have been told over and over about ‘well at least its not life threatening’ and ‘well at least it won’t kill you’. I disagree. I have contemplated suicide many times to end this horrible suffering and I KNOW of others who have taken that step.
Anything that so destroys a person’s life IS and should be considered life threatening.
Jacqueline — thanks so much for your articulate input. Your point is very valid and an important one.
I too was very disappointed in the segment. He covered the basics in his short segment on fibro a couple of years ago. I was hoping he’d get into something real this time, but sadly I was mistaken. There has been so much new research come out just in the last few years that he could have brought up, and I totally agree with the previous comment that the whole segment was completely disjointed. It didn’t seem well put together at all, just scattered random information that was thrown together – “here’s your fibro segment crap.”
It did educate my boyfriend as to what fibro was, so it did serve a small purpose there. The whole, “fibro is life-threatening” line was totally stupid.
Oh, and 3 visits my big booty to get diagnosed! Try countless visits, cortisone shots that did nothing, a doctor that gave up on me and said “I don’t know what’s wrong with ya.” and sent me on my way. Know how I was diagnosed? I developed Interstitial Cystitis (which can go along with fibro), already had IBS, and when I was researching both, stumbled on fibro and figured it out myself. Went to the dr for confirmation. I essentially figured out I had it. Thanks for nothing medical community!
I have SO been there with doctors throwing their hands up. I’ve actually been told “We’ve done everything we can, we can’t help you.” I’m dead serious, not exaggerating, that really happened. However even though fibro itself isn’t life threatening, the side effects are, having to drive when in pain and exhausted, the immune system so worn out that a standard cold turns into pneumonia, becoming dizzy and falling down, the list goes on. Those types of things are rarely, if ever, discussed.
meh meh meh
As you said, I agree it was great that Fibromyalgia was actually getting some attention. I believe he did well with “covering” over the basics, but I tried watching this from the perspective of someone who never heard of Fibro vs. someone who already has it and is looking for more information. While I believe he did provide SOME basics, I found many things wrong with it this show.
First of all, the entire HOUR should have been devoted towards exploring Fibro and the many aspects and facets of this condition. To cut it off was not a fair shake for those who suffer. Fibro definitely deserves at least the entire hour if not a few shows – just like he devotes so many to weight loss and proper diet.
Secondly, the amount of treatment options offered was very lacking. There was much more that could have been explored and even demonstrated (for the “show”). Because everyone’s Fibro is exclusive to them, so is there treatment. Therefore, he should have explained the wide range of alternative treatments other than the medications (which I am glad he didn’t mention by name because those commercials make me sick).
there was no information for family or caregivers to help them understand it or help them know what do, what to say, what not to say, etc. If the doc is going to be an advocate for those with Fibromyalgia, he needs to address the issues those with Fibro face daily – that don’t include the obvious symptoms.
As far as calling it life threatening – he is actually RIGHT! The most common cause of death of those with FIBRO is SUICIDE! However, he was wrong it calling it life threatening in the sense that it affects our style of life. That was just way over dramatized and if I was someone without Fibro trying to understand it, I would think him saying this would discredit EVERYTHING else he DID say!
Overall, I believe it was good to FINALLY address it, but it was poorly done. I think he should have interviewed and had an audience full of people with fibro, provided more information, done a question and answer and much, much more!!!
Hi,
Thoroughly enjoyed reading through the above comments. Since I’ve had Fibromyalgia since 1996 (six mos. after a whiplash), I would have to agree with Sue’s statement of “There was a 90’s flavor to the info”. Seemed to be ‘a primer’ show with the hype of coming out with something new and exciting. Please–the Arthritis Foundation had all this info front and central when I was diagnosed.
Indeed, so many aspects of pertinent information missing. We live in the information age. Therefore, I am surprised that the ‘latest’ information for the whys and the hows to improve our health just wasn’t evident.
I will say that Fibromyalgia will not kill you but that there are days that a person might not mind being dead. Remember there are degrees to this condition and many are combating other conditions and diseases alongside FM which has many long reaching fingers. Personally, improving my diet; sticking with exercise; knowing one day (as a believer in Christ) that I will have a totally pain-free body and mind); and finally seeing the glass half full has made all the difference.
Stress–good or bad variety–is a huge culprit. So we do need to have our ammunition ready 24/7. I still haven’t found a way to combat ‘barometric pressure changes’. I just try to go with the flow on those days and really enjoy the days and weeks of tranquil/more agreeable weather.
Oh, girl, you rock! Right on! Very well put.
Thanks for all you do. Will you share with us info on your book. This is the first I’ve heard it mentioned. Thanks
Sue, thanks for this post! I am so not a Dr. Oz fan, but like Oprah, people tend to follow him just because of his name. If Dr. Oz says so, like Oprah, people just believe what he says.
So if his coverage of Fibromyalgia was less than stellar, I’m not surprised. It IS a controversial topic only in that opinions vary so much and that treatments may or may not work for everyone. Still, it really is a shame that this highly publicized fibromyalgia episode fell short. What a lost opportunity.
Needless to say, I won’t be wasting my time watching this episode. I don’t watch much tv, but when I do it’s the shows that I really like – watched online, without commercials! Dr. Oz’s show will never make that list lol.
I absolutely agree that it is just as you say, “edutainment”. Ratings vs truth. Too bad he didn’t have a “book club” like Oprah huh? Maybe we’d get some really good recommendations? 😀
Speaking of which, I had not picked up your book yet. Will go do that now!
Shannon — thanks so much for your delightful comment and I definitely appreciate your purchase of my book. I look forward to hearing what you think!
His lack of information after all the hype really let me down. He made it sound as though fibro is as bad as a splinter and just as fixable. What now we can be cured with a massage? I was very let down with the episode and truly wish he had never approached the subject. If he knows nothing about it then don’t discuss it. He needs to say on his favorite subject that he knows about POOP.
Cathie — Hilarious!!
I didn’t see the Dr. Oz show in question so I’m not able to comment on that but I would like to disagree with your statement that ” fibromyalgia is lifeSTYLE threatening, not life threatening. BIG difference”.
Fibromyalgia can have such an effect on previously healthy and strong individuals, eg. cognitive functioning, extensive and continuous pain, major depression, being accused of ” faking it ” by doctors and even family members, that many seriously contemplate and even attempt suicide. Also fibromyalgia can exacerbate or worsen previously diagnosed conditions that ARE life threatening such as diabetes, MS or lupus.
Yeah, what she said.
I have yet to watch it, why? Fibro Fog, yes, I forgot. Again. Hopefully after typing this I will go back to the link here and be able to remember to click it. I HATE being looked at as if I am demented, especially by my two children, 19 and 20. I see it on their faces and in their eyes, and it is hurtful. One more than the other, where the stare is with disdain and the “I told you that ALREADY” or “I told you (Big sigh) that four times” is laced with disgust.
I know it is frustrating for others but HOW DO THEY THINK I FEEL? i got fibromyalgia at menopause and at the same time got a thyroid condition, an auto immune disease called Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis. Coincidence? I think not.
Since I don’t remember I’m really wondering if I ever had energy, maybe i never did. I sure was not a Type A personality, call me a Type Z now….z,z,zzzz’s. I talk about it a lot in my blog hibernationnow.worldpress.com. We all need help and support. This is not going away. Thanks for listening.
I totally agree, I felt left hanging. He didn’t nearly touch on the important things we feel as people suffering from Fibro. I was upset also that he didn’t dedicate an entire show to this. He never spoke of different treatments for it. Thank you for addressing it.
Hi, Lisa !
I missed the show, but found it in its entirety on You Tube. I was so disappointed an, at times, angry, that Dr. Oz was not educating the audience and TV viewers.
We so much need him or someone to do an autistic informational program about Fibromyalgia.
It took 4 + years for me to be diagnosed.
You are spot-on in your interpretation of this segment on Fibromyalgia !
Thanks so much.
Paula Gremour
Didn’t get to watch it, so I really appreciate your synopsis and trust it wholeheartedly. A couple points. I went from puberty to age 45 before I was diagnosed by a researcher at Georgetown Univ. When he came in to tell me, he said two things immediately.
1-“Everything you’ve been through medically is all related to this diagnosis”, and
2-“It’s non-life-threatening”, which was such a relief. Since the symptoms can be so varied and SCARY, and I had lived with them for so long without any answers.
We do know now that this dx is so frustrating to live with, it does lead to suicide.
The way I describe it is: (and wish Dr. Oz described it)
I eat, but it doesn’t give me energy.
I sleep, but it doesn’t give me energy and I never feel rested.
I hit walls of exhaustion, at times, I can never predict.
I cannot establish any routines or commit 100% to any plan.
I have pain that can’t be predicted and nothing helps.
Some days I cannot even think.
I love what you called it, namely, life-style threatening!
I love your list, that’s exactly what it’s like.
totally thumbs down! I was diagnosed about 15 years ago, after another 15 to be finally told what it was, I am still learning things about it and how to treat it on my own. The medical community was little help to me. I learned nothing from Dr. Oz’s show. Very disappointed. Not to knock his show but I find it’s more geared toward, weight loss, and looking beautiful. I quit watching it a long time ago but made an exception because of all the hype.
I was extremely disappointed with the show and Dr. Oz’s ‘performance.’ Misinformation is so very destructive and I did not see much real information or help on this show. I wish he had shown as much enthusiasm for the fibromyalgia segment as he does the weight loss and aging segments.
It is a big thumbs DOWN from me.
Hi Sue!
Just the glossing over of the topic on the show..still gives the impression
that it’s an easily overcome “if you just do these things” you won’t be achy&tired etc. So much more we deal with on an everyday basis!
I found your site as I was in the depths of yet another flare slamming me unexpectedly (and I did everything “right” that month!). I think you should go
on the Oz show! A part 2 is definately needed. Thanks for all you do for us!
Diane — thanks so much for your kind comment. You’re a great cheerleader!
I too as a sufferer was very disapointed. At least the entire show shuld have been devoted to the subject. Had my roommate watch with me so he could understand my illness, not much was learned.
I only saw Dr.OZ one time and that was enough for me. I was diagnosed in 1988, At the time I was still very active very. Then I broke my back, More nerve dammage, Then i found out I was pregnant, which was a shock to my drs, being i had 10 misscariges.. So I had to stay in bed for 7months. Anyway before i go on a tangent. I personlly dont think any tv dr has the answer to any medical condition. After reading your quotes, Im glad i didnt waste my time, Being its not a womans condition. ( Oh that was a huge problem in Italy) ETC. I have done some translating from US information On fibro, And here they think Dr Oz is the second coming. Because he is american. Bad, bad. well thats my comment.. thank you
Dr. Oz is not going to know everything about fibromyalgia. Whatever his producers tells him to say about that is what he says. I am not defending Dr. Oz. I do have fibromyalgia it is frustrating and nobody knows that much about it. I know there is new information. The other doctor should of told how the therapies she said worked and if the insurance company will pay for it pay for it out of your pockets. Both Dr. Oz and the other doctor should of talked about the other symptom you can get.
I was disappointed as well that no new info was talked about or treatment options for that matter. I was also surprised when they referred to it as a life threatening illness. But when I thought about it, there have been times where I was truly ill or hurt (like when I got lyme disease 2 yrs after my initial diagnosis, or the time I pulled ligament in my hip). I blew off my symptoms as being nothing more then flare ups and never went in to get treated until my symptoms became too severe to ignore anymore. (The big bullseye rash on my leg was quite a wake up call!) In that regard, fibro could lead to a life threatening situation because we often are so used to our pains, we disregard them instead of asking ourselves if they go deeper then just the fibro. I know better now, and when I have flare ups I pay attention to what led up to it, to see if I’m really hurt or ill so nothing like that happens again. It’s really scary when you can’t trust your own body to tell you when somethings wrong anymore.
Exactly!!
Saw the ad on Facebook, a friend(a fellow RN that knows I have this and is understanding) called to tell me about it. Then…. What a let down and disappointment!
I would like to know where all the so called experts thinks this disease leaves you in about 3 months. Haven’t heard the first person with Fibro say it left after 3 months. If anyone else knows anything about it being short term I would love to hear about it.
Kathryn – I’ve never heard of fibromyalgia “leaving” or being a short-term condition. I do know, however, that when I work with clients, they can begin to feel better within several months. But it’s definitely NOT a quick turn-around condition.
I don’t think he really touched base on this at all. Everyone has their own symptoms of Fibro. He should’ve talked more about that than the segment pn aging…really????
I was rather disappointed after having heard all the hype about the show. I even had my fiance’s mother call and give me heads-up on the upcoming Dr. Oz episode on Fibro. I recorded it, watched it the following day, and felt as though I wasted a 1/2 hr of my precious time…and I do mean “precious”, as those of us with fibro., know that each passing minute can change due to the fluctuation and randomness of our symptoms. When I’m having a “good” fibro hour (or day, if I’m lucky), I want that time spent productively…feeling satisfied, no matter what I’ve chosen to do with that time – which did NOT happen after watching the Dr. Oz fibro focus episode. There was absolutely soooo many more symptoms not mentioned, nor was there any mention of common underlying/secondary syndromes and/or diseases that often accompany fibro. Diet, in my opinion and experience, does play a huge role, but again, there was very little said about it, as well as certain lifestyle regimens (hot or regular yoga, mild to moderate physical activity, as tolerated, etc.) that can be of benefit for some with fibro. There was so little said, and really, no answers either. The only positive I took away from the episode, was that it was aiding in raising awareness, at the very least, of this nasty syndrome. I feel there definitely should have been more mention on the many, VERY many, symptoms that come with having fibromyalgia. While the syndrome may not be life threatening, living with it certainly imposes lifestyle change that can be absolutely devasting.
Lorie – you’re so right!
Recently diagnosed need to know who Sue is and the show was horrible Dr Oz was better than the segment on fibromyalgia need help healing from inside out please was lucky miss. Diagnosed for a back hernia and went for a second opinion and ended up going to a great Ra Dr who diagnosed it within 15 min of seeing me water excersize does help been 3 times last week 1 hour each session hurting this week colonoscopy this week to see if I have major ibs issues starting to heal from inside out thanks for listening Sue very depressed want my life back sad to see so many people miss diagnosed . Thanks for your help
Lisa M
Lisa — thanks so much for your kind words. I’m so sorry to hear about the symptoms that you’re dealing with! I can relate to how debilitating fibromyalgia and chronic illness can be. Feel free to learn more about me at my website (www.RebuildingWellness.com) and you can contact me there.
You asked about the difference between Osteopathy and Chiropractic. This website give a pretty good explanation.
http://www.osteopathy.com.sg/chiropractors.php
We have used D.O. and were happy with them. However this was while we lived in Kirksville, MO and it was difficult to find a doctor who wasn’t a D.O.
The Osteopathy Museum is located in Kirksville, Missouri, where Dr. Still lived for more than 40 years and where in 1892 he founded the first school of osteopathic medicine, …
Thanks Patti! I’ll be writing more on this next week. Thanks so much for your kindness!
I disagree! Fibromyalgia is life threatening. Our gray matter does shrink and our cns is affected and so is our substance p. All of the co-morbities and other health problems that arise as a result of this disease, can adversely effect you and cause death.. People with fibro ar at a higher rate for stroke which does kill. Nothing that effects the cns and spinal cerebral fluid is SAFE. You should really think this through. I am a fibro warrrior but I now have massive seizures that can lead to death. If I didn’t have the fibro I wouldn’t have the seizures.
I did forget to add that I too was let down by his segment and did not feel that the adequate information was given. It does effect people in different ways.
There should be more awareness out there for those of us with this disease.
I do yoga, walk, ride exercise bike, and exercise on daily basis. This does help control many of the symptoms of my fibro/cfids. I also follow a gluten free diet and eat as healthy and as much raw fruits and vegetables as I can. I also do power drinks and am going to get a juicer.
I have researched and self treated my disease with the help of both a neurologist and rheumatologist. I still have the seizures and have had a TIA.
Thanks for all you do………….
Thanks Gail — I value your input!
I agree that I was left unsatisfied and the show touched on the subject very lightly; not very informative but on a positive note, its a start and hopefully him talking about it to any length may get some results in which we need.
I would also just like to say that there are so many different theories out there right now but at least doctors and or scientists are working on a cure and or help for us sufferers. I am working with a specialist who is dedicated solely on CFS/EBV and I’ve been taking his herbal pill that he has dedicated so much research on making and partly due to his own Son having the illness and it being successful, so far it has greatly improved my health!! I was struggling for over 6 months, afraid that I might have to go on disablilty and stop working which I hate to even think of but so far been on the herbal pills and its really helping! I’m starting to exercise at least 3 days a week, and staying up after I come home from work!! I was so frustrated from being in pain, not being able to work some days, not able to exercise; not even go for short walks but hopefully this will keep me going for a very long time!! Dr. John Chia has a practice in Torrance, CA. And it usually takes 3 months to book an appointment but please look him up if you want to learn more about his research!! 😉
Blessings to all and well wishes!!
Janna
jn2me2@aol.com
Thanks Janna for chiming in! You’re the first two-N’d Janna I’ve come across other than my sis 😉 Thanks so much for letting others know what steps you’re taking and what works for you. Thanks also for mentioning the name of your doctor. It’s always good to share the names and info on practitioners who’re helpful.
You’re not the first one to make these types of comments about Dr Oz. “Edutainment” is a great to characterize his shows. If you’re looking for solid, medical advice, look elsewhere.
i, absolutely, felt let down. the show is commercial tv. Dr Oz does bring SOME, LIMITED, helpful info but it falls far short. The producers think we, the viewers, have the attention span of a gnat. I have serious news for them. Be that as it may, they are all about commercials and ratings. Now…if we could get PBS to do a serious program on our subject that would be the ticket.
Love that idea, Jackk! PBS would be an awesome venue for some detailed and informative programming!
I was not happy with how he did this also. I felt he made it sound like you walk in and they just find it and all is well. They will give you something to do and it will all change and you will feel just great. Why didn’t they talk to more people who had it and let them tell what it is really like and how long most have had to keep seeing people to find what it is, the tests done and money spent and still nothing before they find it is FMS. I do hope what he said will help others open thier eyes/minds to what is happening to so many. But over all the show fell WAY short of what he needed to say.
Lesia – you’re so right and maybe this show will be a beginning of future educational programming!
This was an episode that was broadcast last year. So he has mad no new strides on it since last year. Just a re-airing must be on vacation. :/
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=22RnVGmgn7M
I didn’t watch the show because all of the topics on these types of shows are covered so superficially. There’s never in depth discussion and it’s always disappointing. Not just the topic of Fibro, but any topic discussed. It’s entertainment disguised as education. Almost every topic on those shows could have an entire show or two or even a week devoted to the topic. 🙁
Susan – thanks for your thoughtful comment. Your thoughts are shared by many here.
I have to disagree that the show did no service for FM patients. The last segment, showing the body chart and the crazy way our brains work in regards to pain, was to me a great visual. I plan to share that particular video with my family and friends on Facebook. Having them understand a little more about FM will be a huge benefit to me.
Nancy – thanks for chiming in. That was an interesting part of the program and it could be useful to demonstrate some aspects of fibromyalgia for others. While the show had some glaring omissions – in my opinion – I don’t think anyone would say it did no service for FM patients. The major benefit was giving fibromyalgia legitimacy via mass media exposure. That definitely has merit. Again – thanks so much for your input.
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I had my grown son watch the show in hopes he would gain understanding and I was so mad at the end that Dr Oz had reinforced to my son that my illness wasn’t to be taken seriously.
I’m sorry that you were frustrated, too. It would be difficult to cover a complex syndrome in just a few minutes. That was the first mistake, in my opinion. I’m surprised (not to mention disappointed) that the whole show wasn’t dedicated to such an important topic.