Rheumatoid Arthritis Support Group

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic, inflammatory, multisystem, autoimmune disorder. It is a disabling and painful condition which can lead to substantial loss of mobility due to pain and joint destruction. The disease is also systemic in that it often also affects many extra-articular tissues throughout the body including the skin, blood vessels, heart, lungs, and...

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RCross 03/29/2013

Today I have a new issue...with my collarbones, where they join my ribs/sternum. The pain is intense every time I use my abdominal muscles. Does anyone else have this? Could it be RA related?

Gosh this disease confuses me so!

bluedogs2 03/29/2013

Sorry that your having a bad time of it. When I have a flare in the hands, the shoulders ache a bit, but not as you have described. Again, sorry

RCross 03/29/2013

Hi Bluedog...glad to see you back. I hope you're doing okay.

bluedogs2 03/29/2013

Hi RCross -

Doing OK for now - Hope you are feeling better

deleted_user 03/29/2013

My bone scan showed RA in my sternum and clavicle, so yes, it could be RA pain. If its a new, severe pain, you should call your rheumy. Feel better.

deleted_user 03/30/2013

i hope you are feeling better now.

deleted_user 03/30/2013

Yep, my ribs and where they attach to my sternum are attacked. Is where your collarbones attach to your sternum red or swollen? Or even bulging?

RCross 03/30/2013

Rosie...yes, it does seem swollen! I don't go back to the rheumy for a month. Maybe I should call him.

deleted_user 04/01/2013

Look up SAPHO syndrome.
My first rheumy thought I had it and my second ordered a bone scan to check for it.
Hyperostosis of the sternoclavicular joint can be a cardinal sign.
It is autoimmune and treated similarly to RA, so if there is overlap meds should help

RCross 04/01/2013

I'll look it up...never heard of that before.

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