CHECK-UP:Being included in normal school activities is important for any child with an illness, however, some activities may need to be modified for the child's specific limitations, writes MARION KERR.
I AM a primary school teacher and next year I will be having a pupil who has juvenile arthritis. Can you tell me something about this condition?
Juvenile arthritis (JA) is the most common form of arthritis in children. For many it can be a mild condition that causes few problems over time. But for a minority of children it can be a debilitating disease leading to joint damage and other serious complications.
While the signs and symptoms of JA vary from child to child, the most common experienced are pain, swelling, tenderness and stiffness of the joints.
Joint contractures, damage to joint cartilage (which can cause deformity) and altered bone growth may also occur.
There are many different types of JA and its management will depend on its particular form and the problems experienced by the child.
Generally, goals of the treatment include inflammation control, pain relief, joint protection and maximising functional abilities.
Arthritis Ireland provides information and support to children with JA and their families. You will also find specific information for schools and teachers on the illness at www.arthritisireland.ie
Are there any activities that a child with JA should avoid?
Being included in normal school activities is very important for any child with an illness as it promotes self- esteem and inclusion.
However, activities may need to be modified to allow for the child’s specific limitations. Care should be taken with contact sports, weight-bearing activities or the repetitive use of any part of the body.
Resting after activity is important to reduce pain and to conserve energy.
A child with JA may need to get up and move around the classroom on a regular basis to help reduce stiffness. They may need extra time when walking from one classroom to another.
Problems with hand function may require the use of special splints to support the joints while writing and undertaking manual tasks.
The use of computers and dictaphones for school and homework may be useful.
You should contact an occupational therapist (OT) for advice on how best to accommodate the needs of this child. An OT will be able to help with a wide range of issues including access, bathroom facilities, special seating and splinting.
They can also advise on special aids or equipment and activity modification for children with specific needs.