Question
Is there a connection between ulcerative colitis and arthritis of the large joints? I have had left side colon pain for years and now have swelling,warmth and pain in my knees, large toe joint, one ankle, and one wrist.
Answer
Yes, there is an arthritis associated with inflammatory bowel disease (UC and Crohn’s). It usually involves a few large joints at a time, most frequently a knee or ankle but sometimes a wrist. The joints are active when the colon is active.
