Arthritis is usually associated with older people, but children can also suffer. Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common type of arthritis in children.
Approximately 1 in 1,000 children under the age of 16 is affected in the UK. (approximately 15,000 children)which causes joint pain and inflammation in the hands, knees, ankles, elbows, and wrists, but can also affect other parts of the body.
There is no cure for JIA. Pain can be managed with treatments to relieve symptoms, reduce pain and swelling, and prevent joint damage.medicines such as Immunosuppressant methotrexate and biomedical etanercept Widely used. However, these treatments can have side effects, such as a decreased ability to fight infections.
physical activity is essential It is suitable for children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis, but there may be concerns that it may make symptoms worse. This condition can cause joint pain, stiffness, and muscle weakness, which can leave children unable to function. But even with these challenges, exercise is beneficial for her child with JIA.
JIA is more than just a physical problem.will affect social connections and future independence, Requires more than medical care. Teens fighting JIA more than its peers, creating additional challenges School and career selection, stay activeand social development.
How arthritis isolates children
In particular, JIA students are struggling with: attendance and participation.they may need to avoid some physical activityit can leave them feel isolated and influence their studies.
schools can support them customized program It helps meet children’s needs, manage illness and keep them in school.this support is essential However, missing school or activities can still hinder their achievement.
If you don’t handle your teenage years well, affect subsequent work life. You may miss work frequently, have trouble concentrating while at work, or face obstacles that make your work difficult.
JIA can also change over time and become more difficult to work with. Some people may see their symptoms improve and go into remission, while others may deal with ongoing disability. This uncertainty makes it even more difficult to plan for the future and find a suitable job.
Therefore, it is essential to help these young people manage their illness and provide early support for their psychological and social needs.
physical activity
One thing that can make a difference is being able to participate in physical activity.
Lack of activity can lead to weak bones and a poor quality of life, but proper exercise can help your child strengthen their bones, build muscle, improve athletic performance, and feel better overall. Helpful. Experts suggest that children with JIA should strive to: Be active for 60 minutes a day in a way that suits your health condition and symptoms.
JIA doesn’t need that prevent participation in sportsAs proven by professional golfers Christy McPherson and American football star Charcandrick West They have built careers as elite athletes despite the difficult conditions.
However, children in this condition Often less active This points to the need for clear and tailored advice on how children with JIA can exercise safely. This advice should be part of a larger plan that includes treatment and regular proper exercise to improve your health and avoid future problems.
The problem is Low awareness of arthritis Young people may not receive the support they need to thrive. It is therefore important that adults in influential roles, such as teachers and policy makers such as politicians and health commissioners, understand these challenges in order to improve support for young people with JIA.
Research underway at the University of Manchester includes: Better understand the impact Studies of various juvenile rheumatic diseases, including JIA, in adolescents and young adults.
Our research aims to address the unique challenges faced by young people with JIA by informing the development of evidence-based policies that can be implemented in schools, workplaces, and government policies to support the needs of young people with arthritis. It aims to address some of the challenges of
Although JIA may not always be visible, its profound impact on young people’s lives extends far beyond childhood, impacting their education, social connections and future employment.
Ensuring comprehensive support encompassing both medical and social care, as well as recognizing the full scope of the impact of JIA, will help affected children more effectively overcome challenges and lead fulfilling lives. It is essential to be able to send.
ash coxFaculty of Biological Sciences, Department of Musculoskeletal and Dermatology, Postdoctoral Researcher University of Manchester
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