An overall analysis of available arthritis treatments, including osteo- and rheumatoid arthritis, this book covers pathophysiology, traditional medicine, alternative therapies, and lifestyle changes. It focuses on treatment regiments, including synthetic drugs, their safety and toxicity; natural and herbal products; healthy foods; and non pharmacologic interventions such as acupuncture and psychosocial management. With numerous tables, figures, and charts, it examines the association of arthritis in obesity, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease and offers extensive research on natural products as well as synthetic drugs such as COX-2 inhibitors.