concerns about ra and osteoarthritis

[gnstric66]

I have had ra for 25 years it has been well controlled for most of that time. recently i have had pains in hips and lower back, X-rays show degenerative disc in lumbar spine and hips. I am wondering if ra may cause osteoarthritis to become prominent.

[helixhelix]

You can get secondary osteoarthritis as a result of continued inflammation from RA, but if your RA has been well controlled then the risk is not that great. However degeneration in lower back and hips is extremely common as we age, so more likely to be normal wear and tear. What does your doctor say?

[gnstric66 in reply to helixhelix]

thanks for your reply, that does sound right. I have mentioned this problem of pain and he didnt say anything. I may need a new dr. I am in a study now for my ra because of the high costs of biologics. so just not sure what to do now. Thanks again.

[RosieA]

Hi. I suppose it all depends on what else has been occurring, e.g. menopause, steroid use etc. I have low bone density and have since my late 30s. I am on a Bisphosphonate to support my bones whilst on steroids. If you have been on a lot of steroid therapy over the years it may be worth asking for a bone density scan, meanwhile it's always worthwhile reflecting on how much Vitamin D and calcium you think you are getting. Since becomming photosensitive I have realised that my Vit D intake must be quite low - taking Adcal anyway when on Bisposphonate therapy. I also try and do some weight baring exercise, even if it's just carrying garden waste around. Hope that helps a little.

[gnstric66 in reply to RosieA]

Thank you for your reply. I haven't taken a lot of steroids over the years, just occasionally . I did have a bone density scan and it was normal. I may need vit d.

[oldtimer]

You are more likely to get osteoarthritis if you have had Rheumatoid Arthritis long term, but the course is complicated by the fact that, if you have had it a long time, you have also got older and that is another risk factor. Especially so if you have done any hard manual work putting stress on the joints in earlier life.

Osteoarthritis is extremely common with aging but it doesn't make it any less painful. The mainstay of treatment seems to be to keep the joints moving within the limits of the pain. It also seem really important to keep the muscles strong around the joints to support them. It might be wroth seeking advice on regular strengthening exercises from a physio.

[gnstric66 in reply to oldtimer]

Thanks for your reply, I really do need to work on strengthening exercises.