Juvenile Arthritis
Juvenile arthritis is an umbrella term for many forms of arthritis that affect children under the age of 16. Juvenile arthritis, also known as pediatric rheumatic disease, is characterised by inflammation, stiffness and pain in the joints of children.
Juvenile arthritis is an autoimmune disease. This means the immune system, which would normally fight to act as the body’s natural self-defence system, gets confused and attacks the body’s healthy tissue. This most commonly results in joint inflammation, swelling, pain, sensitivity and skin irritation.
What are the symptoms of Juvenile arthritis?
There are a range of symptom for Juvenile Arthritis, the most common are;
Joints - may become red, swollen, stiff, painful and warm. The symptoms are likely to be worse in the morning or after long periods of rest.
Skin - the skin condition can be a good indication that a child has Juvenile arthritis. Skin symptoms may include a scaly red rash, light spotted pink rash , rash across the bridge of the nose and cheeks or thick, hardened patches of skin.
General well being - A child may become tired, poor appetite, low on energy and mood particularly during a ‘flare up’.
Fever - An increased fever can be common during a ‘flare up’.
Eyes - pain, redness, dryness, sensitivity to light and altered vision.
Organs - A child can suffer from diarrhea, sickness or bloating due to digestive issues. Shortness of breath can be associated due to the effects of the lungs or heart.
What are the treatment options?
There is no cure for Juvenile arthritis, however early diagnosis coupled with well timed treatment can help reduce the symptoms and reduce the effects. The main treatments are:
Medication - Once the type of Juvenile arthritis has been established, medication can help to control the disease by suppressing the immune system. Pain relief can also help reduce symptoms and encourage pain free activity where appropriate.
Injections - anti inflammatory injections can help reduce the destructive effects of joint inflammation.
Surgery - This is very uncommon for a child but severe Juvenile arthritis may increase chances of joint replacements later in life.
Physiotherapy - Exercise guidance and specific exercises to target certain muscle groups can help maintain an active lifestyle and relieve symptoms.
Occupational Therapy - The provision of specialist equipment such as seating, laptops, and walking aids for school or at home can help reduce symptoms.
Orthotics - The provision of supportive devices to reduce or redirect stress of the joints and slow down joint wear and tear.
General well being - helping your child to understand the disease, joining support groups, maintaining healthy lifestyle choices and keeping up with education can all help to keep positive.
Early input of the treatment options will help to:
- Slow down or stop inflammation
- Prevent disease progression
- Relieve symptoms, control pain and improve quality of life
- Prevent or avoid joint and organ damage
- Preserve joint function and mobility for adulthood
- Reduce long-term health effects.
How can Liverpool Orthotics help with Juvenile Arthritis?
Liverpool Orthotics can provide orthotic supports to help reduce joint stress and symptoms.
Insoles - Insoles can be a very effective and simple treatment option. Insoles help to align affected joints to reduce destructive motion that can occur and improve joint function. Liverpool Orthotics provide a range of custom made products that are specifically designed to help each individual.
Joint Bracing - Liverpool Orthotics have a range of custom made and ‘off the shelf’ paediatric bracing. Bracing can help support movement or limit destructive movements particularly during a flare up. Bracing is commonly used to manage the :
- Hips - reduce range of movement during a flare up.
- Knees - can reduce stress on the joint, offer support, encourage mobility and help get back to sporting activities with confidence
- Ankles - help reduce movements that increase pain
- Wrists - support with daily activities such as typing, writing and playing instruments.
- Back - support for sitting comfortably in school and enable an optimal standing posture
Resting splints - Resting splints can be worn during periods of rest i.e at night or in the evenings. Resting splints are often comfortable supports which secure the joint in a ‘neutral’ position to give the joint complete rest. This treatment can help to reduce joint inflammation and prevent joint deformities during a ‘flare up’.
All the bracing options are not typically long term options, but can help to reduce painful symptoms and allow a child to continue with normal life as best as possible.
What does an assessment for Juvenile arthritis involve?
At Liverpool Orthotics our HCPC and BAPO registered orthotists have experience working with children who are affected by Juvenile arthritis. We understand the importance of a child being able to continue with a ‘normal’ way of life while ensuring the short and long term symptoms are effectively managed.
Our orthotist will be able to assess any joints affected by Juvenile arthritis and provide the best possible orthotic solution. Liverpool Orthotics can carry out assessments at home, in school or at one of our clinics.
To arrange an appointment call Liverpool Orthotics now on 0330 088 3949, or email us at office@liverpool-orthotics.co.uk