Juvenile arthritis is a condition that often clears up before adulthood. However, as an umbrella term, juvenile arthritis includes a large number of conditions. Your child may experience symptoms that progress into older years.
Many forms of juvenile arthritis are also caused by autoimmune conditions. It is therefore important to seek a definitive diagnosis. Symptoms will differ from patient to patient, making identification of the condition difficult to pin down.
Stiff Joints
Stiff joints are a major sign of potential arthritis in juveniles. Symptoms are typically concentrated in one joint – usually a knee – and worsen over time. Your child may experience limited mobility, inflammation and a buildup of fluid around the affected joint.
Other symptoms include a rash, fatigue or disrupted sleep. Each of these symptoms must be carefully assessed to determine the type of arthritis the child is facing. Most forms of rheumatism share symptoms, which makes diagnosis difficult to pin down.
Limited Mobility
When arthritis impacts the lower limbs, reduced mobility is a likely result. A child may complain of pain, stiffness or the inability to straighten out the affected limb. These episodes can pass quickly or last for days. Visiting a doctor during a period of inflammation is recommended, as certain markers are stronger during a flareup.
Taking blood during a flareup can reveal indications of arthritis. These markers are usually lower when a patient is not experiencing symptoms, which often leads to a misdiagnosis or downplaying the patient experience. Arthritis can present with symptoms that are visible and distressing. The swelling in joints is capable of causing partial dislocation, which results in extreme pain.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can ease the symptoms and pain that young patients experience from arthritis. Moving the joints helps to prevent seizing up and inflammation. Some exercises will also prevent stiffening of the affected joint. At Caliber Pain in NYC, we offer the best rehabilitation plans based on the patient’s needs.
Call our offices today to book a consultation with a juvenile arthritis specialist. We work with athletes and sufferers of health conditions that affect the joints. We look forward to helping you reduce symptoms and regain control of your life.
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