Celiac Disease Support Group

Celiac disease is an auto-immune disorder of the digestive system that occurs in genetically-predisposed individuals. It is characterised by damage or flattening to all or part of the villi lining the small intestine, which interferes with the absorption of nutrients. This damage is caused by eating anything with gluten (gliadin), a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley...

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Gastrointestinal System
/ Celiac Disease Support Group

Bone/Muscle Pain

Jem123
Jem123
I was diagnosed with celiac disease in January of 2007 after having 2 years of symptoms. I have been gluten free since my diagnosis and many of the intestinal symptoms have gotten much better. Lately, I have been having bad muscle/joint pain throughout my body. The pain is worse in my knees and hips. Also, I am experiencing muscle weakness in my arms? Does anyone else have/had this? If yes, does this go away after a while being gluten free? I had a bone density test done and I am still waiting on the results. Thanks for your help.
deleted_user
deleted_user
Yes, I also have FM so that is probably most of my problem, but I also have severe bone pain a lot. I do know that osteoporosis also is common in celiacs too from not absorbing calcium.
Another thing that happened to me when I first went gluten free, was that I felt worse before I felt better. There is a definite withdrawal to the stuff. You may be experiencing that too. Take care and keep us posted on how you are doing.
deleted_user
deleted_user
I forgot to add that I firmly believe that Fibromyalgia is caused by celiac and some doctors and researchers are starting to recognize that there is a link.
omastoy
omastoy
I have been GF for almost 3 years. I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia since 1990. Yes it hurts alot. It did get better but gets worse when I do too much physical activity. Also have osteoarthritis and osteopenia( the onset of osteoporosis). I have also learned that all of these ailments are due to Celiac Disease. Must tell you that it did get better but didn't go away totally. I also attribute some of this to my age --55 I think you will get better but it will take more time. Hang in there. Aleve helps me alot--its suppose to be GF--The Bayer company says so. Good luck!
Jem123
Jem123
Thank you so much for your responses. I am still waiting on bone density test results (doc was on vacation). This past couple of months have been so overwhelming between getting the celiac diagnosis and dealing with the bone/muscle pain. I really appreciate your advice and help. I will keep you posted on my results. Have a great day!
deleted_user
deleted_user
I also suffer from the joint pain... mainly hips and shoulders for me. My bone scan came back normal, but my doctor isn't ruling anything out. However, I do agree with "omasoty" and suggest Aleve. I have found that since being gluten-free it actually works... doesn't make the pain go away but definitely helps make it livable. Good Luck!! :)
Jem123
Jem123
Hi again... Well my bone density scan results were great! No bone loss whatsoever. I was quite happy to finally get some good news. I will try the Aleve, currently I am using Advil and it's not working that great. Thank you for your help. I really appreciate it.