Arthritis is the most common extraintestinal complication, affecting an estimated 25 percent of all IBD patients.
The two most common forms of arthritis experienced by IBD patients are peripheral arthritis and axial arthritis.
Peripheral Arthritis
Peripheral arthritis is most common in people withulcerative colitisorCrohn’s diseaseof thecolon.
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Typically, the course of the arthritis follows that of the IBD, withflare-upsand remission coinciding.
There is no single test that can diagnose peripheral arthritis.
Treating peripheral arthritis often involves resting painful joints along with splints and occasional moist heat.
IBD patients being treated withprednisoneoften get a bonus side effect of relief from joint pain.
Active axial arthritis typically affects younger people and rarely continues in patients who are over 40.
Axial arthritis can lead to fusion of the bones of the vertebral column.
The goal of treatment for axial arthritis is to maximize the range of motion of the spine.
Some patients benefit from treatment with NSAIDs.
AS is considered rare because it only affects an estimated 1% to 6% of those with IBD.
The onset of AS is usually accompanied by a loss of flexibility in the lower spine.
Treatment includes pain management and rehabilitation to maintain spine flexibility.
Azulfidine may be helpful in reducing symptoms, especially morning stiffness.
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