Nonpharmacological interventions for oligoarticular JIA
Nonpharmacological interventions have an important role in the management of oligoarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and are best delivered by a multidisciplinary team. The individual components may include:
- participation in physical activity
- use of psychological techniques
- finding opportunities for social connection.
Children and adolescents with oligoarticular JIA may require targeted stretching and strengthening exercises, delivered by a physiotherapist or occupational therapist, in order to:
- maintain full range of motion of all joints
- optimise muscle strength (especially in the context of muscle atrophy)
- manage limb length discrepancies and joint contractures
- address gait abnormalities
- maintain full function.
On occasion, casting of the affected joint at the time of intra-articular corticosteroid injection is used to manage joint contracture.
Children with oligoarticular JIA are encouraged to remain active, including participating in sport. If physical activity causes discomfort, reassessment is recommended because symptoms may be due to an arthritis flare or there may be an alternative explanation for the pain (eg a benign mechanical condition).
Also consider age-appropriate, nonpharmacological acute pain management strategies.