Physical activity in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis: a review of recent literature

Abstract

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is the most common rheumatic chronic disease in children, typically characterised by joint pain and swelling, fatigue, stiffness, muscle weakness and movement restrictions. As a consequence, children are exposed to bone atrophy, physical disability, social separation and reduced quality of life. It is believed that early implementation of targeted pharmacological treatment such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, disease-modifying agents and biological therapies is necessary to ensure full recovery. Recent recommendations emphasize the importance of nonpharmacologic treatments, e.g. nutrition, supplements and physical or occupational therapies, as an important component of a complex therapy. In this article, we review recent studies, summarising the impact of different physical interventions on children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis on muscle, bone and psychological function to provide a basis for more detailed recommendations of physical activity for children with arthritis.