Arthritis of Inflammatory Bowel Disease

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.