I was recently diagnosed with enteropathic arthritis by two different rheumotologists. Because of my "faith" in doctors I sought a second opinion. The first doctor put me on 5 mg of prednisone and tramadol and said see you in a month. The tramadol made me feel weird, so he gave me vicodin (which did nothing for the pain) The second doctor was going to put me on anti inflammatories, but my GI said no, because it can cause colitis of the pouch. Now, I don't know what to do. I am going to call my GI today and ask for referral to yet another rheumotologist, that hopefully has experience with j-pouchers. I am not sleeping because of the pain. I am very frustrated. I wish doctors would treat the WHOLE person and not just the part they specialize in!!!! Any advice would be GREATLY appreciated. I am soooo tired of the medical community!!!!!!!!!!

Hi,

Just had my take down 3 months ago. As soon as I started the prednisone taper (last Nov.) after surgery 1 of 3 for the j-pouch I had severe joint pain. Even though it doesn't show up in my blood work is appears to be some kind of IBD related arthritis. I am frustrated with my rheumatologist b/c he gave me 5 mg of prednisone daily w/ hydrocodone and acted like this would be a long term solution.
My rheumy has no experience w/ j-pouchers although he does have some UC/arthritis patients.
I wish I could help you, but I am in the same predicament. It appears the long term affects of Methotrexate are preferable to the long term effects of prednisone. I had a HORRIBLE stint w/ prednisone before in my UC days and know that this drug is a last resort and not a first option for arthritis treatment.

Keep us posted on what you find out. I know how difficult and frustrating it is....