When a child complains of joint stiffness, it’s easy for parents to wonder if it’s just growing pains or a result of being too active. However, persistent symptoms can sometimes point to juvenile arthritis, which can be easily misunderstood from its non-pediatric forms. In this article, we at Podiatry Center of New Jersey are acknowledging National Juvenile Arthritis Month by clarifying 5 key misconceptions surrounding it.
Myth: Juvenile Arthritis is Just Growing Pains
They are not the same thing. In fact, growing pains are usually felt in both legs – in the calves, thighs, or behind the knees, and typically in the evening or at night. And they don’t cause swelling, redness, or lasting stiffness.
JA, on the other hand, involves actual inflammation in the joints with visible symptoms like swelling and redness in addition to the pain. And while growing pains go away after sleep, kids with JA will still feel them in the morning.
So, if your child has any joint swelling or morning stiffness, it may warrant a doctor’s visit.
Myth: Children with Arthritis Will Outgrow It
While some children with certain types of JA, particularly oligoarthritis, may achieve remission where their symptoms disappear, many will not outgrow their arthritis entirely.
JA is a chronic condition, and even in remission, it often requires ongoing monitoring. Without proper management, the inflammation can cause permanent joint damage, growth problems, and affect other organs. Modern treatments try to control the disease, prevent damage, and maintain function, not just wait for it to disappear.
Myth: Juvenile Arthritis is Caused by Diet or Lifestyle
This is false. JA is an autoimmune disease, meaning the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy tissues. It’s not caused by anything a child did or ate, nor by vaccines or exercise.
Scientists believe it results from a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental triggers that switch on the autoimmune response. While a healthy diet and lifestyle are important for overall well-being, they don’t cause or cure JA.
Myth: Arthritis Only Affects Older People
This is a widespread misconception. While osteoarthritis is common in older adults, JA affects children and teenagers under the age of 16. It’s a significant condition that can begin from infancy through adolescence. Recognizing that joint pain and stiffness can be arthritis, at any age, is crucial for getting ahead of it.
Myth: Children with Arthritis Shouldn’t Play Sports
While intense activity during a flare-up might need to be modified, regular exercise is incredibly important for children with JA. It helps to maintain joint flexibility, strengthen muscles, improve bone health, reduce stiffness, and boost overall health.
A physical therapist will often work with a podiatrist to help design a safe and effective program tailored to your child’s specific needs.
If you have more questions about foot care or want to address specific concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to the expert team at Podiatry Center of New Jersey! Give us a call at (973) 925-4111 or make an appointment online.
