Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis

What is Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA)?

• JIA is a chronic disorder that develops in children who are 16 years of age and younger, and is characterized by swollen joints and joint pain 

• There are 6 main types of JIA, including Systemic Arthritis, Polyarticular Arthritis, Oglioarthritis, Psoriatic Arthritis, Enthesitis-Related Arthritis, and Undifferentiated Arthritis  

​

How Common is JIA and Who Gets it?

• It is very common and 1 in 1000 children have JIA

• The most common age of onset is between 2-4 years old

• It is more prevalent in females

​

What Causes JIA?

• The cause of JIA is unknown

• There is thought to be genetic predisposition to JIA that is triggered by factors in the environment, such as infection during childhood

​

What are the Main Signs and Symptoms?

• Joint stiffness, swelling, and pain

• Fever and rash

• Uveitis (eye swelling)

​

How is JIA Diagnosed?

• JIA is diagnosed by the child's doctor, based on a physical exam and tests, that rule out other similar disabilities

• The Pediatric Gait Arms Legs Spine examination has been used to assess joint ability in children 

​

How is JIA Managed or Treated?

• JIA can be managed through a number of different medications, as well as occupational therapy, physiotherapy, a proper diet, eye care, and physical activity

• The goals of management are to alleviate pain and swelling, prevent permanent joint damage or disfiguration, and to enter remission

​

Can My Child Still Do Physical Activities?

• YES!

• Children with JIA should engage in regular physical activity, even if they are experiencing strong symptoms. If your child is experiencing strong symptoms, consult your doctor before exercise

• Activities such as swimming, yoga, resistance-band exercises, and body-weight exercises have many beneficial effects

​

What are Some New Ways that JIA is Being Managed?

• There is a lot more known about JIA now than in the past, making it more manageable

• New approaches include an emphasis on physical exercise, rather than rest and full reliance on medications, which was often prescribed in the past [1]

• The importance of a multi-disciplinary team is being recognized

• Recently, there is an emphasis on empowering children with JIA and providing pain coping strategies, through new and relevant ways, such as through the use of technology [1]