Crohn's induced arthritis

[ERaok]

My Crohn's disease isn't all that bad. It flares up when I am stressed, but it's okay the rest of the time.
But I have musculoskeletal problems like you wouldn't believe. it's been over a decade with all the stuff.
I need to get on disability, but I have no systemic diagnosis for all my problems. so I'm stuck, because I can't really hold down a job, and it's difficult to get on SSDI.
I need to show the judge at the disability hearing that there is a very strong linkage between Crohn's and arthritis. can anyone here point me towards good links, certain doctors, etc., that will help me out in this endeavor?
the GIs see that my Crohn's is fairly well under control, so they don't attribute the musculoskeletal problems to the Crohn's for that very reason.

Frankly, I don't care if they're wrong or right, I just need to show a systemic diagnosis. So I think it's a matter of convincing the G.I. and the rheumatologist to agree with the Crohn's induced arthritis diagnosis. And they're diagnosis will convince the judge.
it's just like people with fibro, lime disease, and other illnesses that cause joint issues. At first everyone tells them it's in their head, until they finally find someone who properly diagnoses them with a label that works for the social security agency.
Once on disability, I can use all sorts of avenues to heal myself. I'm confident of that. But when you're running around frantically trying to find ways of making a living, it's almost impossible to heal.
So for now, I need to focus on getting that diagnosis on paper. Or atleast be able to show the judge that the link is strong between the disease and joint issues.
Any leads would be much appreciated.

 

[Cross-stitch gal]

Hi and welcome. I'm sorry to hear that you're having quite the time right now. But, as far as arthritis comes to hand two of my good friends have been dealing with this too. afidz and valleysangel92 have had quite the time. I'm sure that either one of them could tell you their many struggles.

I myself haven't dealt with this, but can give you support too. I hope you'll find lots of support and help here. Take care and see you around!

 

[my little penguin]

Overview of Enteropathic Arthritis/Arthritis Associated With Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Enteropathic arthritis, or EnA, is a form of chronic, inflammatory arthritis associated with the occurrence of an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), the two best-known types of which are ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. About one in five people with Crohn's or ulcerative colitis will develop enteropathic arthritis.
The most common areas affected by EnA are the peripheral (limb) joints and, in some cases, the entire spine can become involved, as well. Abdominal pain and, possibly, bloody diarrhea associated with IBD are also components of the disease.

From
http://www.spondylitis.org/Enteropathic-Arthritis



Spondyloarthritis can run independent of GI flares
Your rheumo should be familiar with spondyloarthritis

Ds has juvenile Spondyloarthritis (JSpA)

His runs independently of his GI flares

There is medicine to treat SpA
Most SpA is treated with NSAIDs which is out for folks with IBd
And biologics
Some biologics treat both SpA and ibd
Remicade
Humira
Etc....
Many rheumo add mtx if the peripheral joints are involved
(Hands knees ankles etc..)

Are you doing physical therapy (swimming biking .,)?
Movement is key especially if the pain is bad
What meds are you using to treat your disease ?
Ds uses
Paraffin wax
Swimming
Walking
Hand splints
Ice /heat
Stelara
Methotrexate
Volteran gel
Celebrex (nsaid with GI approval at low doses )

It can be managed and be active
But the right meds and physical therapy need to be in place

Can you get a second opinion. ?