Lakhasly

This chapter presents information on the heterogeneous disorders included under the umbrella term JIA and a brief introduction to other rheumatic conditions one may encounter throughout their practice as a physical therapist.Secondary impairments in aerobic fitness and exercise tolerance are common and may contribute to activity limitations and participation restrictions.However, some with severe and persistent disease experience significant impairments, including joint pain and swelling, limited ROM, and muscle atrophy and weakness.

This chapter presents information on the heterogeneous disorders included under the umbrella term JIA and a brief introduction to other rheumatic conditions one may encounter throughout their practice as a physical therapist. Although the exact etiology of many of these autoinflammatory and autoimmune diseases is not entirely understood, great strides

continue to be made. Most children do well with early diagnosis and appropriate medical treatment to manage the inflammatory process. However, some with severe and persistent disease experience significant impairments, including joint pain and swelling, limited ROM, and muscle atrophy and weakness. Secondary impairments in aerobic fitness and exercise tolerance are common and may contribute to activity limitations and participation restrictions. The long-term prognosis depends on the child's age at disease onset, disease type and course, and the quality and consistency of health care. The goal of management is for the child to lead as normal a life as possible. Physical therapists play an important role on the multidisciplinary team to help the child and family achieve this goal.