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Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA)
Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) refers to arthritis in childhood. It can affect children from the age of six months to 16 years. The majority of children with JIA only have a few joints that are affected – usually knees, ankles, wrists and fingers. Some children with JIA have many joints affected. JIA can also affect the skin, tendons, muscles and eyes.
Incidence
The incidence of JIA in Australia is 1 in 1000 children.
What causes JIA?
The body has an immune system that fights disease. In JIA, the body mistakes normal joints as foreign and attacks the joints. It is not understood how or why this happens.
Is there a cure for JIA?
There is no cure for JIA. However, with treatment and support most JIA can be controlled and children can lead full and active lives. Symptoms can last for months or years. Sometimes the symptoms go away on their own. This is called remission. Approximately half of children with JIA go into remission before they reach adulthood.
How is JIA managed?
Once a diagnosis of JIA is made, the doctor will coordinate a treatment plan that will most likely include exercise and medications to control the inflammation of the joints. Treatment may be altered as the JIA changes over time.
What can Arthritis Queensland do for children with JIA and their families?
Educators at Arthritis Queensland provide support to children with JIA and their families. Specific information is available for parents, children and teachers.
Each year, Arthritis Queensland sponsors children to attend a juvenile arthritis camp called Camp Footloose.
Contact Arthritis Queensland on 1800 011 041 and ask to speak to the Juvenile Arthritis Educator, or please send an email through for specific information.
JIA Menbership form
Broncos Sporting Bursaries
Studies into aerobic training in children with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) suggest that exercise is well tolerated, improves functional outcome, relieves pain, maintains joint range of movement, strengthens muscles, increases exercise capacity and improves confidence and mood. Arthritis Queensland in partnership with Broncos Charities Fund offer bursaries to children with JIA for access to sporting services and/or equipment.
The next round of bursaries is now open. For an application kit contact Jasmin on 1800 011 041 or email info@arthritis.org.au.
See the latest edition of our JIA newsletter - JIA Jottings
612 ABC Brisbane - Larissa's Story
Useful links
Livewire.org.au - Livewire is a joint initiative of the federal government and the Starlight Children's Foundation. It is a members-only website that provides a fun, safe and supportive environment for kids with chronic health conditions.
Royal Childrens Hospital - Melbourne Rheumatology department
Paediatric Rheumatology European Society
Media Release: Childhood arthritis is a different story - hidden problem revealed