It is believed that the chronic inflammation in the intestines or colon can trigger the immune system to start an inflammatory process in the joints or tendons. - Michael R. Cannon, MD, a rheumatologist with Arthritis Consultants of Tidewater in Virginia Beach, Virginia.Feeling joint pain, rigidity, swelling, or redness of arthritis? You might be surprised to learn that about 25% of those with Crohn's disease can experience arthritis, a joint inflammation. This makes it the most common occurrence of Crohn's extra-intestinal (outside the digestive tract). Some older patients report winter worsening their arthritis — a phenomenon that may be related to changes in atmospheric pressure. Warm clothing and flexible exercise are the keys to keeping symptoms under control during the colder months. There are brand-name drugs as well as generic drugs to treat joint pain and Crohn's that might be recommended by the doctor.
Related article: 6 Simple Exercises for Knee Pain
The link between Crohn's Disease and Arthritis
Several recent research suggests that Crohn's disease coincides with other forms of inflammatory arthritis, such as psoriatic and rheumatoid arthritis. A review released in Nature Medicine in August 2015 for 10 autoimmune diseases identified 22 gene locations shared by at least two conditions like Crohn's, ulcerative colitis, and psoriasis.
As per the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America, Having Crohn's means that you are more likely to develop one of three types of arthritis:
1. Peripheral arthritis: This condition affects the hands, wrists, elbows, knees, ankles, and feet. This appears to mimic Crohn's disease but does not damage the cartilage or bone of the joint.
2. Axial arthritis: Spondylitis or spondyloarthropathy is also known to affect the spine, back, and hips. It may start before you have any symptoms of Crohn's and may result in damage and destruction of the bone.
3. Ankylosing spondylitis: In the heart valves, lungs, and eyes, a severe form of spinal arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis may also cause inflammation.
The link between Crohn's Disease and Arthritis
Several recent research suggests that Crohn's disease coincides with other forms of inflammatory arthritis, such as psoriatic and rheumatoid arthritis. A review released in Nature Medicine in August 2015 for 10 autoimmune diseases identified 22 gene locations shared by at least two conditions like Crohn's, ulcerative colitis, and psoriasis.
As per the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America, Having Crohn's means that you are more likely to develop one of three types of arthritis:
1. Peripheral arthritis: This condition affects the hands, wrists, elbows, knees, ankles, and feet. This appears to mimic Crohn's disease but does not damage the cartilage or bone of the joint.
2. Axial arthritis: Spondylitis or spondyloarthropathy is also known to affect the spine, back, and hips. It may start before you have any symptoms of Crohn's and may result in damage and destruction of the bone.
3. Ankylosing spondylitis: In the heart valves, lungs, and eyes, a severe form of spinal arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis may also cause inflammation.
In some people with joint pain and Crohn's, rather than true arthritis, the joint problem could be related to side effects or intolerance of medication. If used over a long period of time, steroids such as Deltasone (prednisone) may trigger bone loss, contributing to premature osteoporosis, and eventual weakening of the bone, fractures, and potential joint pain. Typically it occurs in the back or hips.
Tell all of the concerns to your doctor. Most patients with joint pain and Crohn's don't inform a gastroenterologist about their joint problems as they connect it to getting older instead of being part of the process of inflammatory disease. Indeed, Crohn-related arthritis often affects younger patients. Seeing a rheumatologist can improve, because the rheumatologist and gastroenterologist may be able to coordinate the treatment and handle your conditions better.
Among the milder medications, Azulfidine (sulfasalazine) can benefit both the tract of gastrointestinal (GI) and the joints, while Lialda (mesalamine) does a better job in treating the symptoms of GI than arthritis. Another important part of your treatment plan is the movement that can reduce pain and improve muscles, providing additional support for the joint.
Find movements such as:
- Stretching
- Therapeutic low-impact workouts such as elliptical machine, pool drills, stationary bike, meditation, or tai chi
- Strength training
NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.
DISCLAIMER: This content is provided for informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Patients should always consult their physicians with any questions regarding a medical condition and to obtain medical advice and treatment.
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