This research is meant to evaluate the effectiveness of two different prevention programs for post-acute management of rheumatoid and osteo-arthritis

Park Nicollet Clinic and the Institute for Clinical Systems Integration (ICSI) have developed evidence-based care guidelines and intervention strategies including degenerative joint disease. Included in these guidelines are risk factors for increased limitations, obesity and physical activity.

The aims of this research are to modify well-established weight management techniques and physical activity promotion interventions according to ICSI recommendations, implement the interventions in a diverse patient population, demonstrate the short and long term impact of the interventions.

The approach will be an individual randomized controlled trial of 400 patients, 200 each in a coach-supported intervention, 200 in a self-directed intervention.

Inclusion Criteria:

• clinical visit 11/1/2003 to april 30/2004 diagnosis code rheumatoid arthritis or lower extremity osteoarthritis saw a provider that consented to have patients invited to participate consented to being contacted for research

Exclusion Criteria:

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