Exercise For kids With Arthritis

June 16, 1999

Exercise Suggestions for Kids with Arthritis

Children love to play, and those with arthritis are no exception.

Indeed, exercise is beneficial, but because of their condition,

children with juvenile arthritis require carefully supervised exercise

programs. Different exercises are needed for the two most

common forms of juvenile arthritis. For juvenile ankylosing spondylitis,

which inflames the spine, exercises to help with good

posture are especially important. For juvenile rheumatoid arthritis,

which makes joints hurt, swell and stiffen, children need to

exercise their elbows, knees, wrists and ankles.

Exercise programs are directed to keep children's joints as mobile as

possible and their muscles strong. Listed below are

exercise recommendations for children with arthritis:

Swimming

The winner. It puts virtually no strain on the joints.

Bicycling

It's good too, especially for the lower body. A stationary bicycle works

just as well.

Jogging

It may be too stressful, especially for children who have a knee, hip or

foot affected with arthritis.

Hand Exercises

These are important to prevent muscle atrophy. If other exercises are

boring, play the piano, play the clarinet or use a computer

keyboard. A trumpet and flute will not work the hands as much, and a

violin is difficult to use.

Gym Work

Be careful with children who have access to a gym. Many exercise

machines are not recommended. For example, children can

hurt themselves by using a stair-climbing machine. If using weights, use

light weights with repetitions. Use machines that keep

weight constant, avoiding sudden stress when a weight is picked up or

moved.

Note:

These suggestions hold true when one or two joints are affected. If a

number of joints are involved, it is difficult to maintain a full

regular exercise schedule. Consult a physical therapist or a doctor for

a tailored exercise program to meet specific needs.

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