Exercise and Physical Therapy for Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis

Physical therapy is an important part of a child's treatment plan for juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA). Exercise can help to maintain muscle tone and preserve and recover the range of motion of the joints (how well and how easily the joints move). A physical therapist can design an appropriate exercise program for a person with JRA.

The physical therapist also may recommend using splints and other devices to keep joints growing evenly.

Material provided by the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. You may visit their website at www.nih.com.