IBD-Related Arthritis

Elite Rheumatology and Arthritis Center
Dr. Sumalatha Nandikonda, MD
1727 Orlando Central Pkwy, Orlando, FL 32809
Phone/Text: 407-888-5980

Fax: 4078882492

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“Please note that Elite Rheumatology and Arthritis Center operates under the legal business name Sunshine Specialty Healthcare LLC”.

What is IBD-Related Arthritis? 

IBD-related arthritis is an inflammatory joint condition that occurs in people with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. In this condition, the immune system mistakenly causes inflammation not only in the digestive tract but also in the joints, leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness. Accessing timely IBD Related Arthritis treatment in Orlando is essential to manage both joint and intestinal symptoms effectively.

This form of arthritis is autoimmune in nature, not infectious, and may develop before bowel symptoms appear, alongside digestive flares, or even after gastrointestinal symptoms are under control. Coordinated IBD related treatment in Orlando helps reduce long-term complications.

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Types of IBD-Related Arthritis

There are two main patterns:

1. Peripheral Arthritis

   • Affects large joints like knees, ankles, wrists, and elbows

   • Often follows bowel symptoms and may come and go with flare-ups

   • Usually does not cause permanent joint damage

2. Axial Arthritis (Spondyloarthritis)

   • Affects the spine and sacroiliac joints (lower back)

   • Can occur independently of bowel symptoms

   • May lead to stiffness, especially in the morning

Common Symptoms of IBD Related Arthritis

Symptoms vary depending on the type of arthritis and bowel involvement. Patients seeking IBD Related Arthritis treatment in Orlando commonly report:

• Joint pain, swelling, and stiffness

• Back or hip pain, especially after rest or in the morning

• Persistent fatigue and reduced physical function

• Digestive symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, or weight loss

• Comprehensive Inflammatory Bowel Disease treatment in Orlando often improves joint symptoms as well.
   

How IBD-Related Arthritis Is Diagnosed

Diagnosis relies on clinical evaluation and collaboration between specialists providing IBD related treatment in Orlando.

• Your medical history and symptoms

• Physical examination of joints

• Blood tests for inflammation markers

• Imaging (X-rays, MRI) of joints or spine

• Coordination with your gastroenterologist for bowel disease management

Treatment Options

Medications

• Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) used cautiously due to IBD risk

• Corticosteroids for short-term flare control

• DMARDs (Disease-Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs) such as sulfasalazine

• Biologic therapies (including TNF inhibitors) that treat both arthritis and bowel disease
   

Biologics play a key role in advanced Inflammatory Bowel Disease treatment in Orlando and joint protection.

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Supportive Therapies & Lifestyle Care

Effective IBD Related Arthritis treatment in Orlando also includes:

• Physical therapy to improve flexibility and strength

• Low-impact exercise to maintain joint mobility

• Stress management techniques
   

Joint-friendly daily routines and posture support

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Frequently Asked Questions

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1. What are the most common signs of IBD-related arthritis?
IBD-related arthritis typically presents as "migratory" pain, where swelling and stiffness move from one large joint (like the knee or ankle) to another. Unlike other forms of arthritis, these flare-ups often happen at the same time as intestinal symptoms like abdominal pain or diarrhea.
 

2. How is IBD-related arthritis diagnosed in-house?
We use specific diagnosis criteria to distinguish IBD-related arthritis from rheumatoid arthritis, often starting with in-house lab draws to check inflammatory markers. Our specialists may also perform joint fluid analysis or on-site imaging to ensure your joint pain is directly linked to your Crohn’s or Ulcerative Colitis.
 

3. What are the best treatment options for IBD-related arthritis?
Because standard NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) can trigger bowel flares, we focus on specialized biological therapies that treat both the gut and the joints simultaneously. Medications such as Infliximab (Remicade) or Adalimumab (Humira) are highly effective at inducing remission for both conditions.
 

4. Can I receive my biological treatments at your clinic?
Yes, Elite Rheumatology offers comfortable in-house infusion services, allowing you to receive advanced IV biologics in a controlled, clinical setting. This "one-stop" approach ensures that your rheumatologist can personally monitor your response to therapy and adjust your plan immediately.
 

5. Why should I see a specialist for IBD-related arthritis in Orlando?
Effective IBD-related arthritis treatment in Orlando requires a doctor who understands the delicate balance between digestive health and joint inflammation. Elite Rheumatology provides integrated care with on-site diagnostics and rapid appointment scheduling to get your inflammation under control quickly.