How to Improve your Communication, Connection and Confidence, with Rheumatologist Dr. Ortiz

Explicit content warning

02/20/25 • 83 min

Together, Cheryl and Dr. Ortiz debunk common myths about RA and tackle important topics like medication hesitancy, lifestyle interventions, and the balance between the two. Dr. Ortiz reassures listeners that while factors like nutrition, sleep, exercise, and stress management can help, “just because lifestyle can help doesn’t mean lifestyle caused it.”

They also discuss how to make the most of your doctor’s appointments—because being prepared can help you feel more confident and in control. Plus, they dive into the emotional side of living with a chronic illness and the uncertainty that comes with it. Dr. Ortiz shares strategies doctors can use to provide reassurance, even when the path forward isn’t always clear.

Finally, they explore concierge medicine and why Dr. Ortiz transitioned to this model of care. And as a reminder to anyone feeling overwhelmed, Cheryl and Dr. Ortiz leave listeners with this thought: “Everyone’s got something.” RA may be part of your story, but it doesn’t define you—you can still build a life that feels full and thriving.

Episode at a glance:

Why Dr Ortiz Became a Rheumatologist: The importance of building a long term relationship with your patients and searching for answers in the gray areas of medicine.
Tips for patients and doctors to communicate and connect better: Dr Ortiz shares practical tips for improving your connection with your doctor.
Medication Hesitancy and Lifestyle: Dr. Ortiz and Cheryl reflect on the importance of understanding medication efficacy, and how some evidence-based lifestyle interventions can be an important adjunct in your care.
Busting myths about rheumatoid arthritis: Dr. Ortiz and Cheryl address common misconceptions Dr. Ortiz has found in her Connected Rheumatology YouTube channel and Cheryl has found on her Arthritis Life social channels
Empowering Mindset for a New Diagnosis: Your diagnosis is not your fault, but you do have control over how you respond.
Shifting perspective: “Everyone’s got something” – you’re not alone in this journey.
Living a Full Life with RA: Thriving means building a life beyond your condition.

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 Sponsors

Rheum 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!

Episode at a glance:

Why Dr Ortiz Became a Rheumatologist: The importance of building a long term relationship with your patients and searching for answers in the gray areas of medicine.
Tips for patients and doctors to communicate and connect better: Dr Ortiz shares practical tips for improving your connection with your doctor.
Medication Hesitancy and Lifestyle: Dr. Ortiz and Cheryl reflect on the importance of understanding medication efficacy, and how some evidence-based lifestyle interventions can be an important adjunct in your care.
Busting myths about rheumatoid arthritis: Dr. Ortiz and Cheryl address common misconceptions Dr. Ortiz has found in her Connected Rheumatology YouTube channel and Cheryl has found on her Arthritis Life social channels
Empowering Mindset for a New Diagnosis: Your diagnosis is not your fault, but you do have control over how you respond.
Shifting perspective: “Everyone’s got something” – you’re not alone in this journey.
Living a Full Life with RA: Thriving means building a life beyond your condition.

Medical disclaimer:

Episode Sponsors

Previous Episode

The Power of Creativity and Storytelling in Alison’s Chronic Illness Journey

Alison and Cheryl also explore the impact of the pandemic on rediscovering creative passions and the power of storytelling in raising awareness. Alison’s new children’s book, Kenzie’s Little Tree, is not only a meaningful read but also a way to support arthritis and chronic illness foundations.

If you're newly diagnosed, this conversation offers reassurance, practical tips, and a reminder that you’re not alone in this journey.

Episode at a glance:

Alison’s Diagnosis Story: Alison shares how she got diagnosed with AS after the birth of her child
Creative Outlets & Chronic Illness: How writing, reading, and creative hobbies help manage symptoms and mental well-being.
Practical Comfort and Pain Relief Tools: Favorite small but effective tools like heating pads, cushions, and ergonomic adjustments.
Navigating Life Post-Diagnosis: The emotional impact of an IBD and ankylosing spondylitis diagnosis and finding ways to adapt.
The Power of Storytelling: How Alison’s book, Kenzie’s Little Tree, raises awareness and supports chronic illness communities.
Finding Connection & Support: Encouragement for those newly diagnosed, emphasizing that they’re not alone in this journey.

Medical disclaimer:

Episode Sponsors

Next Episode

Progress Over Perfection: Helen Jones on Thriving with Ankylosing Spondylitis

Cheryl and Helen dive into the often-overlooked mental challenges of inflammatory arthritis, which can sometimes feel harder to navigate than the physical symptoms. They explore mindset strategies and mental tools that have helped them, including approaches from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).

The conversation also highlights the importance of balance, such as steering clear of extreme “healthy” habits—like overly restrictive diets—that can add unnecessary stress. Cheryl and Helen share how they’ve learned to set boundaries and overcome the tendency to be people pleasers.

With insights on managing self-talk and practicing self-compassion, Helen offers a refreshing perspective for anyone navigating a chronic illness. Tune in to discover practical tips for embracing progress over perfection and living well with a chronic condition.

Episode at a glance:

Helen’s Journey with Ankylosing Spondylitis: Helen shares her diagnosis story, the challenges of managing a chronic condition, and how it shaped her coaching approach.
The Power of Balance and Listening to Your Body: Discover how Helen found relief by embracing balance in nutrition, self-care, and daily habits, prioritizing what feels good for her body.
Creative and Compassionate Stress Management: Learn Helen’s unique strategies for managing stress, including reframing thoughts, setting realistic expectations, and practicing self-compassion.
Practical Tools for Pain and Fatigue Relief: Helen discusses her go-to tools, like hot water bottles and ice packs, and explains how listening to her body guides her choices.
Inspiration for Thriving with Chronic Illness: Helen’s mantra, "Progress over perfection," and advice for newly diagnosed individuals provide hope and actionable steps to live a fulfilling life despite limitations.