Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Tai Chi Chih for Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis

Inclusion Criteria: * Diagnosis of RA as defined by the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) and consistent with revised criteria for RA * Stable disease-modifying drug regimen for 3 months prior to study entry, with no change in drug dosage for at least 3 months prior to study entry * Relatively stable disease course for 3 months prior to study entry * If treated with corticosteroids, must be on a stable dosage for 3 months prior to study entry * If taking prednisone, must be on a dosage less than or equal to 10 mg/day or equivalent * Resides in Greater Los Angeles area Exclusion Criteria: * Inactive RA conditions defined as "in remission" * Experiencing frequent, severe disease flares that require changes in primary disease-modifying regimen * Serious medical conditions, including: diabetes, congestive heart failure, renal failure requiring specific treatment, cancer (unless cured for period of 5 years or more), unregulated endocrine disorders (including thyroid disorders), chronic uncontrolled infection, or any uncontrolled medical condition that may interfere with the study * Use of analgesics (e.g., opioids) other than acetaminophen or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents prescribed for RA treatment, tramadol (Ultram) or Tylenol with codeine on an as-needed basis, or propoxyphen (Darvocet, Wygesic) * Use of oxycodone (Percocet), hydrocodone (Vicodin), morphine, or hydromorphone (Dilaudid) * Use of high levels of methotrexate (greater than 7.5 mg) * Use of nitrogen mustard, cyclosporine, monoclonal antibodies, or cyclophosphamide within the 6 months prior to study entry * Serious psychiatric conditions, such as bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, or organic brain syndromes * At risk for suicide * Dependent on canes, walkers, or other assistive devices * Unable to commit to study schedule/itinerary or unwilling to be assigned to any of the 3 treatment groups