Pain, swelling and stiffness of the joints are the most common symptoms of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. Swelling and stiffness of the joints is found to be more severe early in the morning. These symptoms may reduce the range of motion and impair the joint function resulting in weakness and reduced physical function. In addition to that, there may be deformities in the joints due to asymmetrical and abnormal growth of the joints. Limp is another important symptom associated with severe JRA which indicates the involvement of knees.
Besides these symptoms, an inflammation of eyes is another important symptom of JRA in which iritis and uveitis are more common. It is characterized by pain, irritation and redness of the eyes and eyes may become sensitive to light. In addition to these main symptoms, there may be some additional symptoms of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis such as recurrent fever, rash, myalgia (muscle pains), swelling of lymph nodes, weight loss and growth problems. The children with JRA tend to grow slowly than average and the affected joint may show unusual slow or fast growth.
The goals of JRA treatment are to reduce the joint pain and prevent disability and it is the combination of medications and physiotherapy. Various medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroid, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs and analgesics are effective for the treatment of JRA. Besides these medications, non-drug approaches of the treatment include physical therapy which helps to improve and preserve the range of motion, reduce pain and increase muscle strength, hydrotherapy which reduces the weight in the joints, relaxation therapy which involves the techniques to release the muscle tension and application of heat and cold to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
Self-care is a crucial part in the JRA treatment which includes exercises, healthy diet and managing the symptoms. Swimming and water aerobics are beneficial for the child as they impart no stress on the joints. Besides this, a child with JRA should have a balanced and healthy diet rich in minerals and vitamins which may help to control the body weight and maintain overall health. In addition, certain changes in lifestyle can help relieve pain and manage severe symptoms of JRA.
