The treatment for juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) aims at reducing pain, managing symptoms and maintaining the normal functioning of joints. A combination of treatment strategies is used to relieve swelling and pain in the joints, to maintain the motion and strength and to prevent further complications. Various options available for the treatment of JRA include the medications, different therapies and surgical options.

In some cases, the medications like pain relievers are only needed, while in some cases, the medications designed to prevent the progression of the disease are required. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen which reduce swelling and pain in joints are effective for the treatment for juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. Celecoxib (Celebrex) is another advantageous drug which is also known as COX-2 inhibitors.

In addition to these medications, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) including sulfasalazine (Azulfidine) and methotrexate (Rheumatrex) are also found to be helpful to slow the progress of JRA when used in combination with NSAIDs. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blocker is another effective medication which blocks the immune system protein known as tumor necrosis factor that functions as an inflammatory factor. TNF blockers such as infliximab (Remicade) and etanercept (Enbrel) may help to decrease pain, swelling and stiffness in the joints by targeting TNF.

Use of corticosteroids is another treatment option for children having severe juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. The corticosteroids such as prednisone given orally or by injection are helpful to control the symptoms of JRA.

Besides these medications, some other therapies such as massage or acupuncture can be applied as the treatment for juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. The occupational therapy and physical therapy is helpful to maintain the flexibility of joints, improve the range of motion and muscle tone. In addition to these therapies, there are some self-care measures to manage the symptoms of JRA such as having regular exercise, application of heat or cold and having healthy and balanced diet rich in vitamins, calcium and minerals.

Generally, the surgery is not required in case of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. However, some children having persistent pauciarticular JRA, despite the medical treatment, may get the benefit from the steroid injections given into the joints. Another surgical option, joint replacement, is delayed until complete growth of bone which may be performed usually with hips in the children with polyarticular JRA. These surgical options are recommended if the medications and other therapies are found to be unsuccessful.