Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis Treatment in Indore

Dr. Bansal's Autoimmune Wellness Clinic

Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that causes persistent joint inflammation in children under 16 years of age.

It is the most common type of arthritis in children and can affect any joint, leading to pain, swelling, stiffness, and impaired mobility.

“Idiopathic” means the exact cause is unknown, though it involves autoimmune inflammation.

Types of JIA

Oligoarticular JIA

Affects 1–4 joints, usually knees, ankles, or elbows

Most common form

Polyarticular JIA

Affects 5 or more joints

Can be RF-positive (more severe, like adult rheumatoid arthritis) or RF-negative

Systemic JIA (Still’s Disease)

Affects the whole body

Fever, rash, enlarged liver or spleen

It can lead to severe inflammation.

Enthesitis-related JIA

Inflammation at sites of tendon and ligament attachments

often affects boys and the spine or lower limbs.

Psoriatic JIA

Occurs in children with psoriasis

Joint pains with skin/nail changes

Causes & Risk Factors

1. Autoimmune Dysfunction

The immune system attacks joint tissues, causing chronic inflammation.

2. Genetic Factors

Family history of autoimmune diseases imparts risk.

3. Environmental Triggers

Infections can trigger an immune response in children who are genetically predisposed.

4. Other Risk Factors

Gender: Girls are more affected in certain subtypes.

Age: onset typically before 16 years

How JIA Affects the Body Mechanism

The immune system attacks the synovial membrane lining of joints.

Chronic inflammation results in:

Swelling

Pain

Stiffness, particularly in the morning

Prolonged inflammation can damage cartilage and bones.

Certain growth problems may occur if the inflammation impacts growth plates.

Symptoms of JIA

Joint Complaints

Pain or tenderness in the joints

Swelling and warmth

Morning stiffness

Limited range of motion

Limping or difficulty walking

Systemic Symptoms (in some types)

Fever

Rash (salmon-colored in systemic JIA)

Fatigue

Loss of appetite

Eye inflammation, uveitis, especially in the oligoarticular type

Growth & Development Issues

Slower growth if the inflammation affects long bones

Muscle weakness resulting from reduced activity

Diagnosis

1. Clinical Examination

Swelling of joints, tenderness, and restricted movement

Observation of growth and posture

2. Laboratory Tests

ESR and CRP, markers of inflammation

Rheumatoid factor (RF)

Antinuclear antibody (ANA)

Complete Blood Count

3. Imaging

X-rays to evaluate damage to joints

Early detection by MRI or ultrasound of an inflammation

4. Exclusion of Other Causes

Infection, trauma, and other rheumatic diseases should be excluded.

Medical Intervention Conventional

1. Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Reduce pain and inflammation

Often first-line therapy

2. Disease-Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs (DMARDs)

Methotrexate is commonly used

Prevents joint damage, slows disease progression

3. Biologic Therapies

Anti-TNF agents (Etanercept, Adalimumab)

Anti-IL-1 or Anti-IL-6 in systemic JIA

For use in severe or resistant cases

4. Corticosteroids

Short-term use for flare-ups

It can be directly injected into the afflicted joints.

5. Physical & Occupational Therapy

Maintains joint mobility

Strengthens muscles

Supports normal growth and function

Lifestyle & Supportive Care

1. Workout & Yoga

Gentle stretching and low-impact activities-swimming, walking

Improves flexibility, posture, and strengthening of joints.

Helps in managing stiffness and pain

2. Nutrition

A balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D for bone health

Adequate protein to support growth

Omega-3 fatty acids (anti-inflammatory properties)

3. Eye Care

Ophthalmology check-ups for the early detection of uveitis

4. Complementary and Integrative Approaches

Homeopathy or Ayurveda may also support:

Pain relief