Although systemic onset juvenile idiopathic arthritis (SJIA) treatment has evolved thanks to targeted medications, a sizable portion of patients with the rare condition are resistant to the new drugs.
Still, not everyone benefits from the new treatments. Approximately 1 in 7 patients will not respond to treatment.
Additional disease-modifying anti-rheumatic medications can be used to treat patients who meet refractory SJIA (DMARDs) criteria. Among them are traditional systemic DMARDs like thalidomide and cyclosporine.
Other biologics that can be utilized for patients who are refractory include rituximab (Rituxan) and abatacept (Orencia).
Due in part to a shortage of medical professionals trained in this specialism, JIA is frequently misdiagnosed. There aren’t any pediatric rheumatologists in many states.
Making good lifestyle decisions is essential to sustaining joint health. Pain can be avoided in large part by engaging in daily physical activity, incorporating aerobic and muscle-strengthening workouts, and maintaining a healthy weight. However, once pains start, many seek over-the-counter relief, such as anti-inflammatory drugs or prescription medication.
RELATED: Why Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis is Difficult to Diagnose
Exercise and weight control continue to be the most effective approaches to lessen pain and enhance function when it comes to chronic pain.
New discoveries give people hope, and one such finding has profound effects on those who experience chronic pain. A special mineral deposit that may be found in the American Sierra Mountains’ slopes has been proven to provide amazing advantages for people who have joint pain.
Two U.S. patents have been granted for the mineral deposit, known commercially as SierraSil, for its exceptional healing capabilities that efficiently improve joint health and reduce inflammation.
Most natural health products, including glucosamine and collagen, contain components that support the body’s natural regenerating process by helping to build human cartilage and joint structure. SierraSil reduces cartilage loss, inhibits the enzymes that cause inflammation, and calms the underlying inflammation, all of which are factors contributing to the symptoms of arthritis.
Clinical studies support SierraSil as an all-natural alternative to pharmaceutical painkillers that consistently relieves stiff, achy joints.
There is no ideal option for anyone. Talk to your doctor about what works best for you.
Symptoms of JIA
Knowing when it is vital to seek counsel concerning joint pain is crucial. The following joint pain difficulties in children must be recognized as “warning flags,” necessitating an immediate consultation and accurate assessment.
- Joint swelling: The youngster may complain of pain and exhibit joint swelling or warmth.
- Stiffness in the morning: Movement is challenging when a youngster first wakes up in the morning. As the day goes on, things grow better.
- Joint discomfort and rashes: These require immediate attention. This could be brought on by a straightforward viral fever or, less frequently, by a condition that affects the blood vessels, known medically as “vasculitis.”
- Fever and joint discomfort: A viral infection (dengue/chikungunya) may be the source of fever and joint pain. But occasionally, it might be brought on by a dangerous underlying condition (blood cancer).
- Loss of appetite or weight loss: Children can develop rheumatoid arthritis like adults. It is known as juvenile arthritis. These children express joint pain and have one or more swollen joints. Pain is worse in the morning.
Even if there is no orthopedic concern, it is significant to highlight that parents commonly ask for an orthopedic opinion on such matters.
RELATED: Does Juvenile Arthritis Last Forever?
Guidelines for Maintaining a Child’s Strong Joints and Muscles
- Foods high in vitamins and minerals: Fresh fruits and vegetables must be a part of the diet. Fish liver oil is a good source of the vitamins needed for bone health for people who follow a nonvegetarian diet. Allow your child to eat them every day.
- Water is important to consume; therefore, aim for 1 to 2 liters daily: Additionally, this promotes healthy digestion and reduces constipation, making water essential for a healthy lifestyle.
- Walk or jog for 30 minutes per day, at least five days a week: Your child will remain fit for years if they begin to incorporate healthy behaviors into their daily routines at a young age.