Inflammatory arthritis

[jointproblems]

Diagnosed with axial and peripheral spondyloarthritis a few years ago. Still trying to find meds that work, but I am struggling to work out what is pain due to a flare up and what is joint pain due to damage done before diagnosis!

Meds were working well and then I had to stop so still trying to find an alternative that works. Consultant says he doesn't think I will meet criteria for biologics as bloods are all fine. Except bloods have never shown anything, was diagnosed from scans and symptoms.

I have multiple painful joints, some have already been flagged as needing replacement, others are slowly getting worse but how do I know if that is because the meds aren't working without more scans? I think I am getting worse but bloods don't show inflammation. So could it "just" be osteoarthritis on top?

I have an appointment with consultant next week so really want to ask some specific questions to figure out what to do next.

I can’t really help as my own experience with inflammatory arthritis, (hands and feet) always showed in my blood work; raised CRP and ESR. My joints were also incredibly swollen and warm so much easier to diagnose than the position that you’re in.

It does sound like damage prior to treatment could well be the culprit - I’ve always said that in a strange way, I’m grateful to have IA as Osteo is so painful with very little treatment available, so I’m so sorry that you’re going through this.

What you’ve written is very concise and I would be asking exactly the same to your Consultant, what next and what options are available.

The consultant has agreed that bloods are a red herring as they have never really shown much and has agreed to refer for biologics. He has also requested a repeat MRI so he can assess if there is any deterioration and what to do next.

So helpful, if a slow process!

Oh that’s fantastic news and sounds like you have a really good consultant there that actually listens - they’re a rarity in Rheumatology in my experience 😄