Many kids with arthritis actually don’t experience pain. If their arthritis is in remission then no need to limit. If they have mildly active disease then I usually don’t limit them too much. If they have big swollen joints then I try to limit heavy, pounding exercises such as running, jumping repetitively or from [...]
There is an increased risk of injury for a few reasons. Inflammation can inhibit muscle firing making it harder for the muscles to stabilize and protect the joints. Inflammation over time can weaken the ligaments and tendons making them more susceptible to injury. Pain can make us compensate with other movements and therefore put [...]
If you are in a flare it is a good time to take it a bit easier with activity. Doing light activity is ok but you may have to back off of the more intense activities. Pain can help remind you to take a break but not all kids experience pain as part of [...]
This is one of challenges for children with JIA who play sports. It is a common question that your pediatric rheumatologist is asked and they can review individual circumstances. In general, JIA pain due to an active joint will be sore every day, regardless of activity, and it may be more significant in the [...]
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 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 [...]
Schools are able to accommodate for a child with JIA to allow them to participate in PE classes. The teacher should be made aware that the child may need to sit out of some or all activities from time to time when there is a flare of arthritis or symptoms are worse. At other [...]
Children with JIA have, from time to time, a number of valid reasons to be excused from participation in PE or gym class. Children with JIA can have increased aches and pains in muscles or joints that make participation in certain types of physical activity (e.g. running, jumping) difficult. Other times, stiffness or restriction [...]
Yes! Physical activity is key to healthy development of children, including those with JIA. Current Canadian guidelines recommend that children aged 5-17 years of age participate in at least 60 minutes of moderate-vigorous physical activity per day. For at least three of these days the activities should promote muscle and bone strength. PE classes [...]
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