Is constant back pain a common experience with rheumatoid arthritis? The short answer is: yes, it can be — and you're far from alone in dealing with it.
Around 65% of people with RA report chronic lower back pain. However, the cause isn't always directly from RA's inflammatory activity. Sometimes it's related in indirect Show Full Answer
Is constant back pain a common experience with rheumatoid arthritis? The short answer is: yes, it can be — and you're far from alone in dealing with it.
Around 65% of people with RA report chronic lower back pain. However, the cause isn't always directly from RA's inflammatory activity. Sometimes it's related in indirect ways. Here's how RA can contribute to back pain:
- Cervical spine (neck/upper back): RA can directly inflame the top spinal joints, since they're surrounded by synovial fluid — the same tissue RA attacks
- Lower/mid back: RA in the hips, knees, or feet can put extra strain on the back over time
- Medications: Steroids used to treat RA can also affect spinal health
Some common symptoms of RA-related spinal involvement include:
- Pain at the base of the skull
- Burning or pins-and-needles in hands or feet
- Headaches
- Reduced flexibility or mobility There are several ways to find relief, including physical therapy, heat or cold packs, anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroid injections, and DMARDs for inflammatory-related pain.
It's really worth bringing this up with a rheumatologist so they can pinpoint the exact cause and tailor a treatment plan. Pushing through back pain alone isn't the best move — early attention makes a real difference.
October 19
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