Treatment of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
In many cases, JIA is treated with a combination of medication, physical therapy, and exercise. In some cases, a child may require corticosteroid injections into the joint. In very rare cases, kids and teens may need surgery. The health care providers, including the primary care physician, rheumatologist, and physical therapist, will work together to develop the best method of treatment.

The goals of treatment are to relieve pain and inflammation, slow down or prevent the destruction of joints, and restore use and function of the joints to promote optimal growth, physical activity, and social and emotional development.

Medications
For inflammation and pain, the doctor or pediatric rheumatologist may prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen, such as Advil, Motrin, or naproxen (Naprosyn or Aleve). These can help reduce inflammation and pain by limiting the release of harmful chemicals from white blood cells.

Higher or lower dosages might be needed, depending upon your child's response to the medication. The doctor or rheumatologist should explain what the medication is meant to do and what side effects, if any, it could cause. It's important for your child to continue taking the medication until the doctor says to stop.

Doctors sometimes prescribe corticosteroids (like prednisone) for arthritis flares, but they try to keep these to a minimum to reduce problems that can come with prolonged steroid use, such as skin changes, weight gain, abnormal blood pressure, diabetes, and bone mass changes.

If NSAIDs don't control joint inflammation, your doctor may prescribe other medications such as methotrexate. In addition, treatment options now include a newer class of medications called biologics. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved many of these medicines for kids and teens with JIA. Some are subcutaneous injections (injections given just under the skin) that can be done at home. Others are intravenous (IV) infusions through a vein that are done regularly at the hospital.

Physical Therapy
An appropriate physical therapy program is essential to the management of any type of arthritis. A physical therapist will explain the importance of certain activities and recommend exercises suited to your child's specific condition. The therapist may recommend range-of-motion exercises to restore flexibility in stiff, sore joints and other exercises to help build strength and endurance.

Regular Exercise
When pain strikes, it's natural for your child to want to sit still. But it's important to maintain a regular exercise program. Muscles must be kept strong and healthy so they can help support and protect joints. Regular exercise also helps to maintain range of motion.

At home and at school, your child should have regular exercise and physical fitness programs. Safe activities include walking, swimming, and bicycling (especially on indoor stationary bikes). Be sure that your child warms up the muscles through stretching before exercising. Make exercise a family activity to build fun and enthusiasm.

Ask the doctor and physical therapist about sports restrictions. Some, especially impact sports, can be hazardous to weakened joints and bones. And make sure your child eats a balanced diet that includes plenty of calcium to promote bone health.