"The two most common types of arthritis in the U.S. are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Together, these diseases affect more than 22 million Americans. This work, designed as a comprehensive resource handbook for patients suffering from osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, provides a user-friendly guide to modern holistic, medical, and surgical treatments"--Provided by publisher.

Understanding osteoarthritis -- Coping with rheumatoid arthritis -- Remembering the past: a brief history of arthritis and methods of prevention and treatment -- Taking charge of your life -- Prevent arthritis? -- Dealing with pain -- Eating healthy: diet and nutrition -- Exercising with arthritis -- Drug therapies -- Alternative therapies -- Preparing for surgery -- Total hip replacement -- Total knee replacement -- Elbows, shoulders, fingers and toes -- Before, during and after surgery -- Caregivers need care, too -- Researching arthritis -- Glossary --\Appendix.