We often associate arthritis with older people. But for every 1000 children in Australia there are 1-4 who have Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA).
JIA is painful and quite traumatic for a young child. Children with JIA cannot run around with their friends, play in the park or be involved in school sports. It is a life-altering condition for a child and for a child’s family.
So what exactly is Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis? What are the symptoms and why do children get it? What are the treatment options available?
What is Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis?
Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis is a type of imflammatory arthritis that can develop in children under the age of 15 years. The cause is not yet understood.
It presents with similar symptoms as in older people including joint stiffness, pain and reduced mobility. One to 4 children out of every 1000 have JIA in Australia.