by Janet Farricelli CPDT-KA

Created on: May 04, 2008

Mention the name rhumathoid arthritis and the image of a senior citizen will pop up most people's minds. Hardly or ever do people think about infants, toddlers, young children or pre-teens. Unfortunately, it may prove difficult to accept the fact that children as well are often targeted by this painful, degenerative condition. Arthritis is called Juvenile Rheumathoid Arthirits when it strikes these all too young members of our society.

WHAT IS JUVENILE RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS?
Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis is a form of arthritis that affects children from 6 months to 16 years of age. As many other types of arthritis, the joints are affected causing pain, swelling and stiffness. The cause of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) is yet to be found so the condition is categorized as idiopathic. JRA is also considered an autoimmune disease meaning that the own body structures or tissues are attacked by the own immune system.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?
A child that develops stiffness, pain, limping and unexplained fevers should be suspected of having JRA. Often these symptoms are more prominent after waking up in the morning. Three types of JRA most commonly affect children: Oligoarticular JRA where 5 or less joints are affected, polyarticular JRA where more than 5 joints are affected and systemic JRA where other symptoms besides the joint pain arise such as rashes and fevers. Many times diagnosing JRA can prove challenging as the symptoms may come and go unpredictably or be of a very subtle nature.
Diagnosis is confirmed upon physical examination, x-rays and various other tests so to rule out other medical conditions that may mimic JRA.

WHAT IS THE TREATMENT?
Pharmaceutically, doctors may prescribe common NSAID's (Non Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) and/or corticosteroid injections. Alternatively, other non traditional approaches may be used such as referring to chiropractors, holistic doctors, acupuncturists, massage therapists etc. Doctors may refer to physical therapists, rheumathologists, occupational therapists and psychologists. A good exercise regimen along with diet may be helpful. Some types of sports may be suggested as well from the doctor.

AN INSIDER LOOK AT A CHILD'S LIFE WITH JRA
A child affected by JRA can be almost as active as any normal child, the basic main concern should be mangaing pain properly and staying away from particular sports and repeated activities that can prove be very damaging.
By working with a good physical therapist, a child may learn to cope better with the pain and stiffness JRA is known to cause. Children with JRA should not be isolated from other children and should be encouraged to take part of common activities. Some organizations in particular, organize get alongs for children affected by JRA. These are great opportunities to keep JRA children together and active.

If the diagnosis of JRA has particularly left you and your child with a bad aftertaste, consider that JRA is not a disease that should cause your child to feel different and lead an abnormal lifestyle, rather, JRA can be very well managed today and your child can feel free to live his/her life almost as any other child and the best news is that most kids outgrow JRA as they mature.

Learn more about this author, Janet Farricelli CPDT-KA.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.