Arthritis of Inflammatory Bowel Disease
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Overview
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a group of disorders, including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, that cause an inflammation of the intestines. Approximately 7 to 20 percent of people with IBD develop arthritis, which typically affects the large joints of the lower extremities. Men and women with IBD are affected by arthritis equally.
Our approach to arthritis of inflammatory bowel disease
Treatment for arthritis linked to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) aims to address the underlying condition, the IBD itself. Most patients' arthritis symptoms improve dramatically once their IBD is controlled.
UCSF provides comprehensive evaluations and advanced care for all types of inflammatory bowel disease. Our team includes many kinds of specialists, such as gastroenterologists, surgeons, radiologists, pathologists, immunologists, nutritionists and psychologists. Treatment options include modified diets, medications and surgery. Our goal is to improve patients' quality of life, and we encourage their input when making treatment decisions.
In addition to caring for patients, our providers are exploring potential new therapies for IBD. Interested patients may have the option to receive investigational treatments by participating in clinical trials.
Signs & symptoms
Symptoms of arthritis (joint pain, swelling and stiffness) usually occur at the same time a person is experiencing symptoms of IBD.
Diagnosis
Your doctor will begin by recording your complete medical history, including a description of your symptoms. You also will undergo a physical examination to check for any physical signs of the disease.
Treatments
In most cases, the arthritis improves dramatically when the underlying inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is treated. Treatment may consist of the following:
- A modified diet
- Exercise
- Surgery
- Drug therapy
Possible medications include corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, sulfasalazine and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Awards & recognition
Best in Northern California for gastroenterology & GI surgery
Best in the West and No. 7 in the nation for rheumatology
Recommended reading
Nutrition Tips for Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Dietary changes may help control a flare of ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease. Learn how certain foods may affect inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Related services & treatments
Specialties
Conditions
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Treatments
- Biologic Therapy for Gastrointestinal Diseases
- Diet and Nutrition
- Clinical Trials
- Surgical Treatment of Crohn's Disease
- Surgical Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis
Support services
Case Management and Social Work
Connect with a team that can help you find resources, solve problems and advocate for you during treatment at UCSF.
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UCSF Health medical specialists have reviewed this information. It is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor or other health care provider. We encourage you to discuss any questions or concerns you may have with your provider.