Lupus and Joint Pain: Understanding the Link

Up to 95% of people with lupus experience joint pain. This symptom can occur in joints throughout the body but commonly affects the small joints in the fingers and toes. 

At Sunshine Spine and Pain Specialists, PLLC, in Sarasota, Florida, our team of interventional pain management specialists regularly works with people with lupus to manage and relieve joint pain. 

Read on to learn why lupus causes joint pain and what you can do to feel better. 

Why does lupus cause joint pain?

Lupus is an autoimmune disease that causes your immune system to mistakenly attack healthy cells and tissues. It also triggers the release of antibodies and proteins called cytokines, which are involved in the immune response.

Research shows that in 50%-75% of people with lupus, the cytokines released during the immune response can contribute to inflammation, leading to joint pain, similar to the stiffness and aches you might experience when fighting off a viral illness like the flu or COVID-19. 

3 ways lupus affects the joints

Lupus is an autoimmune disease like rheumatoid arthritis (RA), but it doesn’t always cause inflammation. Despite that,  it can affect the joints in several ways, including:

1. “Rhupus” syndrome

This rare condition, which is a combination of lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, causes symptoms similar to RA. 

Specifically, it causes joint pain and swelling, limited mobility in the neck and wrists, and neurological issues. 

Without treatment, it increases the risk of permanent joint damage, which can impact mobility and quality of life. 

2. Nonerosive arthritis

Non-erosive arthritis causes minor swelling around the joints but doesn’t damage the cartilage or surrounding tissues, as with other forms of arthritis. Even though it doesn’t damage the cartilage, inflammation from non-erosive arthritis can affect mobility and make daily activities, like walking or getting in and out of the car, challenging.

Nonerosive arthritis is distinctive in that it typically occurs on both sides of the body and often affects the knees, wrists, and knuckles. 

3. Jaccoud’s arthropathy

About 3%-13% of people with lupus develop Jaccoud’s arthropathy (JA). This severe form of arthritis typically affects the joints in the hands and knuckles. The good news is that it can be treated, reducing the risk of permanent joint damage.

You have options for lupus-related joint pain

Joint pain is a common side-effect of lupus, but you have treatment options.

After reviewing your medical records, conducting a physical exam, and ordering lab tests, we can make personalized treatment recommendations. 

Most people with lupus benefit from a three-pronged treatment approach that includes prescription medication, regular exercise, and eating an anti-inflammatory diet.

Schedule a lupus consultation today through online booking or by calling Sunshine Spine and Pain Specialists, PLLC.