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Physical activity in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis: a review of recent literature
Agnieszka Małgorzata Wosiak1, Aleksandra Stasiak1, Elżbieta Smolewska1
1Department of Paediatric Cardiology and Rheumatology, Central Clinical Hospital of the Medical University of Lodz, Poland.
Insights
Physical activity is crucial for children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). Early, targeted interventions, including nonpharmacologic approaches like physical therapy, improve muscle, bone, and psychological health, enhancing recovery and quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Rheumatology
- Sports Medicine
- Child Health
Background:
- Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is a prevalent chronic rheumatic disease in children, causing joint pain, stiffness, and fatigue.
- JIA can lead to significant complications including bone atrophy, physical disability, and reduced quality of life.
- While pharmacological treatments are essential, nonpharmacologic therapies like physical activity are increasingly recognized as vital components of comprehensive JIA management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent studies on the impact of physical interventions in children with JIA.
- To summarize the effects of physical activity on muscle, bone, and psychological function in pediatric arthritis.
- To provide evidence-based recommendations for physical activity in children with JIA.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of recent scientific literature.
- Analysis of studies focusing on physical interventions for juvenile idiopathic arthritis.
- Synthesis of data regarding effects on musculoskeletal and psychological outcomes.
Main Results:
- Physical interventions positively impact muscle strength and bone health in children with JIA.
- Exercise and physical therapies demonstrate benefits for psychological well-being and social function.
- Early and consistent physical activity is associated with improved functional outcomes and reduced disease impact.
Conclusions:
- Physical interventions are a cornerstone of holistic JIA management.
- Tailored physical activity programs can mitigate JIA-related complications and improve overall health.
- Further research can refine specific physical activity guidelines for pediatric arthritis patients.
Abstract:
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is the most common rheumatic chronic disease in children, typically characterised by joint pain and swelling, fatigue, stiffness, muscle weakness and movement restrictions. As a consequence, children are exposed to bone atrophy, physical disability, social separation and reduced quality of life. It is believed that early implementation of targeted pharmacological treatment such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, disease-modifying agents and biological therapies is necessary to ensure full recovery. Recent recommendations emphasize the importance of nonpharmacologic treatments, e.g. nutrition, supplements and physical or occupational therapies, as an important component of a complex therapy. In this article, we review recent studies, summarising the impact of different physical interventions on children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis on muscle, bone and psychological function to provide a basis for more detailed recommendations of physical activity for children with arthritis.
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