Involvement of the TMJ joint is very common in JIA and is most often without symptoms like pain or stiffness. Most commonly, a pediatric rheumatologist notices changes in the movement of the TMJ or growth of the jaw bones which prompts an evaluation for TMJ disease with an MRI. TMJ involvement does occur in [...]
There are many causes for disease flares in JIA which may include changes in medications including interruptions or delay. Emotional, social and physical stressors may be important in disease flares. A potential association of puberty and hormonal changes and disease flare has not been evaluated formally in a research study. As such, at this [...]
Yes! As a pediatric rheumatology community, we are very hopeful about the effectiveness of our medications and physical rehabilitation as we are successfully able to achieve remission for the majority of our patients. Recent data from research on Canadian children with arthritis has shown that more than 75% of patients will be in remission [...]
Children with JIA can develop uveitis at any time, even when their arthritis is not active. For some children with JIA, the arthritis inflammation becomes quiet, but they have continued uveitis requiring treatments. Similarly, arthritis can flare up at unpredictable times as well. The inflammation isn’t ‘switching back and forth’- the inflammation of JIA [...]
Prednisone (corticosteroid) is a very effective and quick-acting medication that shuts down inflammation in a variety of conditions including arthritis, lupus and vasculitis. It is very beneficial for getting one’s disease under control and helping your child feel better quickly. However, it is associated with many side effects with long-term use. As such, our [...]
There are many causes of joint pain in children and adolescents. Arthritis is one we are always on the lookout for. However, there are many other factors that may cause joint pain in children with arthritis and those without. One common example is hypermobility – when the joints are very flexible – which can [...]
 When a child or teen with JIA has active disease, or a flare of disease, in joints in the legs (hips, knees, ankles, feet), it can affect their ability to walk.  This is usually due to pain in the affected joints. At the time of JIA diagnosis, approximately 30-40% of children may have [...]
Most children with JIA are able to continue to play sports without any significant problems. It is important to remember that not all joint or muscle pain is due to arthritis. The above recommendations for accommodation for PE classes can also be applied to sports participation. Many children want to fit in with their [...]
Children who have had arthritis affecting their neck should be screened for instability in that area before participation in any contact sports. Children should be reminded to wear protective eye equipment as per the general population. For children who have had uveitis, there might be an increased risk of eye injury in some sports. [...]
Children with JIA can participate in sports at all levels of play. Most children with JIA are able to participate in any sport, although accommodations are sometimes needed as described above. Sports provide much needed physical activity and opportunities for socializing and goal-setting. Children with JIA have gone on to compete in international competitions [...]
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