Symposium Schedule

Subscribe to FibroRecoveryGroup
Powered by health.groups.yahoo.com

 

 

Thursday, August 19, 2004

 

5:00 PM - 8:00 PM             Registration and Welcome Reception

Pick up your conference badge and materials, and join us for an informal, no-host gathering of attendees in the Foyer.

 

Friday, August 20, 2004

 

8:00 AM - 4:00 PM             Registration

Visit our Symposium registration desk to pick up your conference badge and materials.

 

9:30 AM - 10:15 AM            Keynote:  The Chemistry and Treatment of Fibromyalgia in 2004

Speaker:  R. Paul St. Amand, M.D., one of the foremost authorities in Fibromyalgia medicine.  Dr. St. Amand is an assistant clinical professor at the UCLA School of Medicine and has fibromyalgia, as do all of his children.  He is the author of four books on fibromyalgia, including the best-selling, “What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Fibromyalgia”.  Dr. St. Amand will be discussing the chemistry of fibromyalgia and announcing the results of on-going research about the disease.

 

10:15 AM – 11:00 AM          The Use of Guaifenesin in a Rheumatologic Practice

Speaker:  Joel Depper, M.D.  Dr. Depper, a rheumatologist, will share his personal experiences in treating more than 150 patients suffering from fibromyalgia over a 3 year period, including response rates, side effects, impact of age, prior duration of symptoms, ancillary medications and diet. 

 

Reducing Triggerpoint Pain

Speaker:  Karen Kowal, RN, LMT, NCTMB.  In this session, attendees will identify the function of healthy fascia and connective tissue and the role unhealthy fascia plays in the pain of Fibromyalgia and Chronic Pain Syndromes.  Ms. Kowal will demonstrate a variety of self-care approaches that are easy to accomplish, cost-effective and require minimal expertise including using heat, compression, stretching and release routines to reduce pain and increase range of motion with comfort and ease.  Techniques for relieving your specific pain syndromes will be demonstrated with ‘hands-on’ practice of these non-invasive approaches that may offer relief without side-effects.

 

11:00 AM – 11:15 AM          Break

 

11:15 AM – 12:00 PM          Choose from these sessions:

 

Relationship Strategies With A Chronic Illness

Is FMS getting in the way of your personal life?  The support group "Admin Team" members share their secrets.  Join Cris Roll, Char Melson, Gretchen Parker, Gwen Meshorer, Anne Louise and Jan Houp as they discuss what has worked for them and ideas they have picked up from other FMS patients around the world.  This panel discussion is moderated by newlywed FMS patient, Ken Hancock. 

 

 

Diagnosing Fibromyalgia

Speaker:  R. Paul St. Amand, M.D. will discuss the effective ways to definitively diagnose Fibromyalgia Syndrome.  This session is for physicians.

 

Fitness Training for Fibromyalgics

Instructor:  Liz Jaconelli, Certified Fitness Trainer.  Join Liz, an FMS patient herself, as she shows how strength training and posture correction routines can help FMS'ers regain the strength and agility that they thought was gone forever.  This will be a hands-on session for trainers and physical therapists working with FMS patients.  Volunteer patients will assist in the session.

 

12:00 PM – 1:30 PM            Lunch and Exhibits

Lunch will be held in the exhibit hall.  After enjoying our wonderful HG-friendly menu, wander amongst the exhibits, or see your favorite author to have your book signed.  Also, don’t forget to visit the gallery of beautiful art created by FMS patients and friends and participate in the silent auction.

 

1:30 PM – 2:15 PM             Choose from these sessions:

 

Salicylates, the Key to Recovery

Speaker:  Claudia Marek, M.A., author of four books on fibromyalgia and internationally known speaker.  For those interested in treating fibromyalgia with the guaifenesin protocol, it is imperative that salicylates be avoided in all topical products.  Learn how to select cosmetics, hair products, deodorants, tooth pastes, vitamins, etc. that will not sabotage efforts to get well. 

 

Getting Your Life Organized

Speaker:  Jeri Lynn Killian.  Adding organization to your life can help you balance FMS, family, work, and a social life.  As a top bank executive, Jeri Lynn Killian knows the challenges first hand.  She will share her techniques in this helpful session.

 

 

 

 

Gentle Chair Yoga for Fibromyalgics

Instructor:  Angela Stroup.  Yoga can improve your posture and reduce pain.   Angela's class can be done in regular clothes, in a chair, and without any special equipment.   She has a passion for teaching yoga to those who think they can't possibly do it because of fibromyalgia, arthritis, advanced age. large body size, etc.   This class is for everyone who wants to relax and do some gentle stretching. 

 

2:15 PM – 2:30 PM             Break

 

2:30 PM – 3:15 PM             Choose from these sessions:

 

Diet Considerations in Fibromyalgia

Speaker:  R. Paul St. Amand, M.D.  Most physicians who treat fibromyalgia patients in any numbers have noticed that limiting sugars and starches in the diet can help them to feel better.  Dr. St. Amand will discuss the importance of treating hypoglycemia in patients with fibromyalgia and the relationship between diet and symptoms. 

 

Stress Management

Speaker:  Renee Pierce, BSDM, DNH.  Join Renee, a Health Guide Coordinator at Banner Health, as she presents a workshop on stress management and pain reduction using a mind/body process based on the concept of "mindfulness". 

 

 

Live "Chat" with the "Admin Team"

Jan Houp, Char Melson, Cris Roll, Gretchen Parker, Anne Louise and Gwen Meshorer combine their talents and expertise to answer all your questions about recovery from fibromyalgia using the guaifenesin protocol.   These are the ladies that donate so much of their time to the GUAI-GROUP On-line Support.  This session is designed for those who want to visit with their on-line "friends", and for "newbies" who have questions about anything related to the protocol. 

 

 

3:15 PM – 3:30 PM             Break  

 

3:30 PM – 4:30 PM             Choose from these sessions:

 

Low Carbohydrate Diet Ideas

Running out of ideas for low-carb meals?  Craving baked goods?  Gwen Meshorer is the “chef-of-record” for an on-line support group, and she’s here to save the menu!  In addition to her culinary expertise, Gwen publishes a bi-monthly newsletter devoted to FMS.

 

 

 

Handling “Needy” Patients

Doctors and medical professionals will want to participate in this idea session featuring Debra Brandt, P.A. and Carole Edwards, R.N., medical professionals who are also fibromyalgia patients.   Improve your communication with chronically ill patients.  Learn how you can "off load" many of the day-to-day questions to local support groups.   Find out ways doctors and support groups can work together to insure that patients get the help they need in a timely fashion. 

 

Mapping Instruction - Physicians

In this session for doctors, R. Paul St. Amand M.D. will demonstrate the technique of “mapping” for an accurate diagnosis of FMS reversal.

 

Mapping Instruction - Non-physicians

In this session for L.M.T.'s and other medical professionals, Claudia Marek, M.A. will lead a workshop demonstrating the technique of “mapping” for an accurate diagnosis of FMS reversal.

 

4:30 PM – 6:00 PM             Vendor Fair, Art Exhibit for Silent Auction, and Book Signings

The ballroom will be open to all attendees to browse the exhibits with the products you need to live an active life with FMS.  Your favorite authors will be selling and signing their books.  And, there will be an exhibit and silent auction of FMS inspired artwork. 

 

6:00 PM – 11:00 PM            Evening at Leisure

Enjoy an evening in Scottsdale.  The Phoenician concierge can help you make dinner reservations with your family, doctor, or friends at one of the excellent restaurants within the resort or in the Scottsdale area. 

 

Saturday, August 21, 2004

 

7:30 AM – 8:30 AM             Morning FMS Workout

Join trainer, Liz Jaconelli, in Salon E for a light exercise program that helps your FMS, without aggravating it.  Build your energy for the day with this specially designed workout for patients and trainers.  Everyone is welcome. 

 

8:00 AM – 1:00 PM             Registration

Saturday arrivals, visit our Symposium registration desk to pick up your conference badge and materials.

 

9:00 AM – 9:50 AM              A Rheumatologist's Approach to Fibromyalgia

Speaker:  Joel Depper, M.D.  Physicians will learn the common presentations and differential diagnosis of musculoskeletal pain and the rational diagnostic evaluation of musculoskeletal pain.  Dr. Depper will review the predisposing factors to development of FMS, including hypermobility, trauma, and possible relation to diet, as well as discuss common therapeutic approaches to FMS treatment.

 

 

Sleep Solutions

Speaker:  Miryam Ehrlich Williamson.  Nearly everyone with fibromyalgia has trouble sleeping.  What are the sleep disrupters?  What preparations promote sleep?  How can you improve your pre-sleep routine?  You CAN get a better night’s sleep!  Find out how at this session.

 

 

Support Group Ideas and Management

Moderators:  Claudia Marek, MA, Jan Houp, Anne Louise and Gretchen Parker.  This is a special session designed for Support Group Leaders to discuss ideas for improving meetings, handling member issues, and publicizing your group. 

 

9:50 AM – 10:00 AM            Break

 

10:00 AM – 10:45 AM          Choose from these sessions:

 

Disability Claims:  What Patients and Doctors Need to Know

Speaker:  Scott E. Davis, P.C.  This lawyer's firm has focused on representing those who are disabled due to fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue.  These type of disability cases are often viewed with skepticism or are poorly understood by medical and legal professionals.  In the early stages of reversal, there are those who are unable to function either at work or at home.  Learn what type of help is available for those who are just starting down the path to recovery. 

 

                       

 

10 Steps to Fibromyalgia Pain Relief

Glenn T. Ozalan, N.M.D. and Mick Guenther, D.C. will discuss and demonstrate the latest technology in Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), Ionic Electromagnetic Therapy, Ionic Hydrotherapy, and other non-narcotic techniques for reducing fibromyalgia pain and discomfort. 

 

 

 

 

10:45 AM - 11:00 AM          Break

 

11:00 AM – 11:45 AM          Choose from these sessions:

 

Effective Nonsurgical Treatments for Vulvar Pain

Speaker:  John Willems, M.D., a Clinical Associate Professor at University of California, San Diego, and Chairman of the Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology at Scripps Clinic.  Among his other noted work, Dr. Willems established the Scripps Clinic as a nationally recognized center of excellence in management of vulvar disease. 

 

 

Massage Therapy Techniques for Fibromyalgics

Speaker:  Gail Mahaney.  Learn effective "hands-on" routines which are perfect for those suffering from fibromyalgia who are unable to tolerate heavier methods of massage/bodywork.   These innovative symptomatic-relief therapies can be incorporated into your regular client sessions.  This advanced session is designed for massage and physical therapists.  Patient volunteers are needed for demonstration purposes.  Anyone need a massage? 

 

 

11:45 AM – 1:30 PM            Lunch and Exhibits

Lunch will be served in the exhibit hall for all registered conference attendees.  In addition, our authors will be signing their books, and the silent auction will continue in “the gallery”. 

 

1:30 PM – 2:15 PM             Choose from these sessions:

 

Integrative Medical Approaches for Fibromyalgia Symptom Management

Speaker:  Marian Wymore, M.D.  In this session, Dr. Wymore will discuss the use of a wide range of treatments for fibromyalgia including acupuncture; chiropractic care; heat, cold, and ultrasound; massage (including myofascial release); energy medicine; diet and exercise (including yoga, dance, walking, and stretching); mind/body medicine (including guided imagery); meditation; and mental health considerations.

 

 

Living and Working with Fibromyalgia

Occupational therapist, Gretchen Parker, will share her insights into labor reducing strategies, work simplification, and coping in the workplace---whether it be at home or in the office. 

 

 

 

2:15 PM – 2:30 PM             Break

 

2:30 PM – 3:15 PM             Choose from these sessions:

 

Pediatric Fibromyalgia

Speaker:  R. Paul St. Amand, M.D..  Dr. St. Amand is the world’s leading expert on pediatric fibromyalgia.  In his book, “What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Pediatric Fibromyalgia” he explains the hereditary nature of FMS and the symptoms that children experience.   Treatment at an early age can eliminate problems both now and later in life. 

 

 

Coping with Chronic Fatigue

Speakers:  Debra Brandt, P.A. and Claudia Marek, M.A.  Chronic fatigue is the common denominator among America's twenty million suffers of fibromyalgia.  The good news is that you can do something to reverse this debilitating exhaustion and feel better than you ever thought possible.    Learn how you can boost your energy levels, improve resilience, and revitalize your life!

 

 

Gentle Chair Yoga - Mid-afternoon Stretch

Feeling achy and tired?  Join Angela Stroup for a mid-afternoon stretch using her technique of "Gentle Chair Yoga".  

 

 

 

 

 

 

3:15 PM – 3:30 PM             Break

 

3:30 PM – 4:15 PM             Choose from these sessions:

 

Mouth Problems and Solutions

Speaker:  Flora Parsa Stay, D.D.S.  Dr. Stay is the author of “The Complete Book of Dental Remedies”.  She has a radio program called “Dental Care and You” in Ventura County and is a regular columnist for the Ventura Star and HealthWorld Online.  She is a noted specialist in oral health for FMS patients.

 

 

Vitamins, Minerals and Supplements

Speaker, Miryam Ehrlich Williamson.  Ms. Williamson, author of "The Fibromyalgia Relief Book", will focus on how selecting the right supplements (and avoiding the wrong ones) can be a key element in successful FMS recovery.  Learn important information about vitamins, minerals and amino acids and how they relate to your good health. 

 

 

Mapping Instruction - Physicians

In this session for doctors, R. Paul St. Amand M.D. will demonstrate the technique of “mapping” for an accurate diagnosis of FMS reversal.

 

Mapping Instruction - Non-physicians

In this session for L.M.T.'s and other medical professionals, Claudia Marek, M.A. will lead a workshop demonstrating the technique of “mapping” for an accurate diagnosis of FMS reversal.

 

4:15 PM – 4:30 PM             Break

 

4:30 PM – 5:15 PM             Choose from these sessions:

 

Working With Your Doctor

Speakers:  Marian Wymore, M.D. and Claudia Marek, M.A.  Much of the responsibility for getting the right diagnosis and treatment for FMS resides with the patient.   Ms. Marek, author of “Fibromyalgia:  The First Year” and Dr. Marian will explain how to work with your doctor for the best results.

 

 

The Four Therapeutic Approaches to Treating Fibromyalgia.

Speaker:  Gregory K. Penniston, D.C. has been treating fibromyalgia for 15 years and has used guaifenesin for the past four years on over 600 patients. He will be discussing how the different commonly used treatments (i.e. lifestyle changes, various therapies and manipulation, supplements and medications) treat different issues in fibromyalgia patients.  He will also discuss how to incorporate the use of guaifenesin into a practice.

 

It’s A Guy Thing:  Men with Fibromyalgia

Speaker:  R. Paul St. Amand, M.D.  While the media would like us to believe that FMS is a “woman’s disease”, it’s just not true.  Many men suffer as well, and often go undiagnosed.  Join Dr. St. Amand of the Fibromyalgia Treatment Center for a candid discussion of the unique issues for men with FMS.   This session is limited to MEN ONLY, PLEASE!

 

 

6:30 PM – 9:00 PM             The Grand "Phoenix" Banquet:  A Celebration of Life

All conference participants are invited to dress up for an evening of wonderful food and entertainment in the Grand Ballroom.  Join us as we honor Dr. R. Paul St. Amand, M.D. with a "Lifetime Achievement Award" for his dedicated research and treatment methods which have advanced the world's understanding fibromyalgia and helped so many patients.  And perhaps celebrate your own "Phoenix"' that may rise from the friendship, support, and knowledge gained at this conference. 

 

 

Sunday, August 22, 2004

 

7:30 AM – 8:30 AM             Morning FMS Workout

Join trainer, Liz Jaconelli, in Salon E for a light exercise program that helps your FMS, without aggravating it.  Build your energy for the day with this specially designed workout for patients and trainers.  Everyone is welcome. 

 

8:00 AM – 8:30 AM             Gentle Chair Yoga

Feeling a little stiff this morning?  Angela Stroup will help you stretch out those muscles in this gentle workout designed for those who don't like to go to the gym!  

 

9:00 AM – 11:00 AM           Where Do We Go From Here (Panel Discussion)

As our closing session, R. Paul St. Amand, M.D. and Claudia Marek, M.A. of the Fibromyalgia Treatment Center will join Joel Depper, M.D. and Marian Wymore, M.D. for a panel discussion about the future of fibromyalgia treatment.  The short presentation will be followed by a long question and answer session where you will be able to ask our panel of experts all those burning questions you’ve accumulated at the conference.  Don’t forget our drawing for a FREE world famous Sunday Brunch for two at The Phoenician.  (Entry forms at registration.  You must be present at this session to win.) 

 

11:00 AM                          Hotel checkout

                        "Printer Friendly" version of the schedule

Disclaimer:  Please note that additions, changes and deletions will be made to this schedule between now and the Symposium.   We will make every effort to keep this website up-to-date with the latest changes in our sessions and speakers.   Due to circumstances beyond our control, some sessions may have to be cancelled or speakers changed at the last minute. 

 

 

Home / What's Wrong With Me / What Works / Diet / Probiotic Therapy / Iodine Supplementation / Vitamins, Minerals, Supplements / Mouth and Dental Issues / Exercise / Sleep / Medications / Symptoms and Solutions / Fibromyalgia Treatment Programs / Recommended Products / Discussion Groups / Contact Us

This website is intended as information only. The editors of this site are not medically-trained. Please consult your licensed health care practitioner before implementing any health strategy. The information provided on this site is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between a patient/site visitor and his/her existing physician. This site accepts no advertising. Website edited by Brenda Frandsen and Liz Jaconelli.

Last Updated on:  02/24/2010