July is Juvenile Arthritis Awareness Month. In the health industry, Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is often referred to as JIA. This month, health organizations around the US strive to raise awareness for JIA and provide resources for those with the autoimmune disorder.
Many think of arthritis as a disorder affecting those more advanced in age, however, Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis, as the name would suggest, affects children and teens. This disorder is not simply a version of the arthritis affecting adults that most people are familiar with. JIA is an autoimmune disorder that causes the child’s immune system to attack their joints. The result is usually swelling and pain in the joints and restricted mobility. There are several different types of JIA, categorized on the Arthritis Foundation website here.
Juvenile Arthritis Awareness Month is important because it helps draw awareness to a condition many may not know about. It is important to know the signs and symptoms of JIA so that the children affected can receive proper care and treatment. Though there is currently no cure for JIA, there are treatments available that can improve the lives of those affected and minimize pain. For a list of common signs and symptoms visit the Arthritis Foundation website here.
Highland Family Medicine is here to serve you. If you are a new or existing patient and require care as simple as a routine checkup, to pediatric care for your children, our expert staff is here to help. Call 615-890-4810 or fill out our contact form here to speak with a representative.
Sources:
https://www.niams.nih.gov/community-outreach-initiative/health-observances
https://www.arthritis.org/diseases/juvenile-idiopathic-arthritis
