arthritis in children and young adults
Arthritis affects people of all ages, including children, and is called Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA). Here's a little bit of information about it as well as some details of our support group that provides children and their families with a friendly understanding environment.
JIA explained
What is JIA?
JIA is a term used to describe a group of inflammatory joint conditions that affect children and young people under the age of 16. It occurs when the immune system, which normally protects the body, mistakenly attacks the joints, causing pain, swelling, stiffness, and sometimes fatigue. JIA is an umbrella term for a range of autoimmune conditions, each with slightly different symptoms and patterns. It can affect one joint or many, and in some cases may also involve other parts of the body such as the eyes or internal organs.
How long will it last?
JIA is a long-term condition, but that does not mean it's always permanent in the same way for every child. Some children experience periods of active symptoms followed by remission, where the condition becomes quiet or even disappears for a while. In certain cases, JIA can go away completely as the child grows older. However, for others, it may continue into adulthood and require ongoing management. The course of the condition is highly individual, which is why early diagnosis and regular monitoring are important.
What are the treatments?
Treatment for JIA focuses on reducing inflammation, relieving pain, and maintaining joint function and overall wellbeing. This often involves a combination of approaches, including medications such as anti-inflammatory pain tablets, disease-modifying drugs, or biologic therapies that target specific parts of the immune system. Alongside medication, physiotherapy and regular exercise play a key role in keeping joints mobile and muscles strong. Many children also benefit from pain management and emotional support.