In fact, the direct costs associated with arthritis in 2003 alone rose to about $81 billion, or slightly less than the $86 million the United States spent entirely on arthritis in 1997! Indirect costs for the latest estimates -- taking into account variables like lost wages -- amounted to $47 billion.

Even worse, 46 million Americans sought treatment for arthritis and other rheumatic conditions in 2003, a number expect expected to climb by 8 million by 2015.

These frightening numbers have everything to do with the government recommending Americans turn to self-management programs to better handle their pain. Fortunately, you have plenty of safe, healthy options on Web site to manage your pain and fight arthritis:

• Stay away from toxic, useless drugs and consider seven natural anti-inflammatories that can ease your pain and protect your heart.
• For those of you suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, review my modified version of Dr. Thomas Brown's protocol.
• Treat the emotional pain behind your physical ailments by learning a tool like the Emotional Freedom Technique.