At Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine in Atlanta, we understand the unique challenges faced by children with juvenile arthritis. This condition affects children’s joints, causing pain, inflammation, and limited mobility. Our pediatric rheumatology team is dedicated to helping children manage the symptoms of juvenile arthritis with personalized care, allowing them to lead active, fulfilling lives.
Is It Just Growing Pains? Recognizing the Signs of Juvenile Arthritis
It can be difficult to distinguish between normal growing pains and the more serious symptoms of juvenile arthritis. While joint discomfort is common in growing children, juvenile arthritis typically involves more persistent and pronounced symptoms. Signs to watch for include:
Joint pain and swelling
Persistent pain, stiffness, or swelling in the joints that lasts for more than six weeks may indicate juvenile arthritis. This pain is often worse in the morning or after periods of rest.
Fatigue and fever
Children with juvenile arthritis may experience frequent fatigue or low-grade fevers unrelated to infections.
Limping or difficulty moving
Children with juvenile arthritis may avoid physical activities or limp due to joint pain, especially after waking up.
Warm or red joints
Inflammation caused by arthritis can make the joints feel warm to the touch or appear red.
If you notice any of these signs in your child, it’s essential to seek an evaluation from a pediatric rheumatologist to determine if juvenile arthritis is the cause.
Dr. Sells is fantastic! We have been with her since our baby since her release from the NICU! Dr. Sells is very knowledgeable and patient! She has helped our baby love her visits to the doctor, even requesting to go see “Dr. Sells” without a scheduled appointment. Thank you for the special gifts (books) at each scheduled doctor’s visit! Perfect touch!
Getting to the Root of the Problem: Diagnosing Juvenile Arthritis
Diagnosing juvenile arthritis requires a comprehensive approach, as symptoms can vary widely between children. At Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, we use a combination of clinical evaluations, laboratory tests, and imaging studies to make an accurate diagnosis. Here’s how the process works:
Detailed Medical History
We begin by gathering a thorough medical history, including any family history of autoimmune conditions, and evaluating your child’s symptoms, pain patterns, and overall health.
Physical Examination
During a physical exam, we assess your child’s joint mobility, swelling, and range of motion. We also check for other signs of inflammation, such as warmth or tenderness in the joints.
Blood Tests
Blood tests can help identify inflammatory markers or antibodies that suggest autoimmune activity, such as elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) or antinuclear antibodies (ANA).
Imaging Studies
X-rays, MRIs, or ultrasounds provide detailed images of your child’s joints and bones, allowing us to detect joint damage or structural changes caused by inflammation.
Early and accurate diagnosis is essential for preventing long-term joint damage and ensuring your child receives the care they need to manage juvenile arthritis effectively.
Managing the Pain: Treatment Options for Juvenile Arthritis
While there is no cure for juvenile arthritis, many treatment options are available to help manage symptoms, reduce inflammation, and prevent joint damage. At Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, we develop individualized treatment plans to address your child’s specific needs.
Treatment options include:
Medications to reduce inflammation
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often the first line of defense for relieving pain and inflammation. For more severe cases, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) or biologic agents may be prescribed to slow the progression of the disease and protect the joints.
Physical therapy for mobility
Regular physical therapy can help improve joint flexibility, strength, and overall mobility. Our team works closely with pediatric physical therapists to design exercise programs that fit your child’s abilities and encourage healthy movement.
Lifestyle and activity modifications
Encouraging low-impact activities like swimming or cycling can help keep your child active while reducing stress on their joints. We also provide guidance on how to modify daily routines to prevent joint strain.
Nutritional support
A healthy, balanced diet can help reduce inflammation and support your child’s overall health. We offer dietary recommendations that include anti-inflammatory foods and supplements that may benefit children with arthritis.
Ongoing monitoring and care
Juvenile arthritis is a chronic condition that requires long-term management. Regular follow-up visits allow us to monitor your child’s progress, adjust treatment plans as needed, and provide support for both the child and family throughout the treatment journey.
Frequently Asked Questions About Juvenile Arthritis
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While juvenile arthritis is typically a chronic condition, some children may experience periods of remission where symptoms improve or disappear for a time. However, regular monitoring and management are usually necessary to prevent flare-ups and joint damage.
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The exact cause of juvenile arthritis is not well understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic factors and abnormal immune system responses. In juvenile arthritis, the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue, causing inflammation in the joints.
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Yes, regular, low-impact exercises such as swimming and cycling can help maintain joint flexibility, strengthen muscles, and reduce stiffness. Physical therapy is often recommended as part of a treatment plan to improve mobility and overall well-being.
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While juvenile arthritis shares some similarities with adult arthritis, it differs in terms of symptoms, progression, and treatment. Children’s growing bodies require specialized care, and juvenile arthritis can affect their physical development.
Schedule an Appointment for Juvenile Arthritis Care in Atlanta
If your child is experiencing joint pain, stiffness, or other symptoms of juvenile arthritis, our pediatric rheumatology team at Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine is here to help. Early intervention is crucial to managing symptoms and preserving joint health. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about our comprehensive care for juvenile arthritis.