Hi guys
Inflammatory arthritis is the umbrella name given to a group of conditions that affect the immune system (as opposed to osteoarthritis which is wearing away of the cartilage in the joint and very different.) It includes, amongst others, Rheumatoid, Ankylosing Sponyliitis and Psoriatic Arthtritis.
In my experience I have found that doctors sometimes use this tem to describe a condition before a more definitive diagnosis can be made. My initial diagnosis was Poly- Inflammatory Arthritis but this quickly changed to Rheumatoid in the presence of physical symptoms but despite the absence of Rheumatoid Factor.
Myositosis, inflammation of the muscles, is sometimes present in those with Rheumatoid; unfortunately one of its many possible travelling companions! Rheumatoid is systemic which means it can affect all parts of the body so manifestations of muscle pain could simply be another aspect of Rheumatoid rather than a separate disease. Certain medications can also cause muscle pain,
statins in particular come to mind.
Hope this helps,
Lyn x
