TOO YOUNG FOR ARTHRITIS?
When parents believe only older adults suffer from arthritis, they often fail to seek the treatment their child needs. They assume any pain their
Did you know that cracking knuckles doesn’t cause arthritis? Despite what your mom claimed, popping your knuckles doesn’t lead to long- term joint problems. There are a lot of myths surrounding arthritis, including the idea that arthritis is only a problem for seniors. Children can also suffer from a condition called juvenile arthritis. July is National Juvenile Arthritis Awareness Month, so let’s take a look at what parents need to know about this troubling disease. Most children who are diagnosed with arthritis develop juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). Children with JIA often suffer from enlarged lymph nodes, inflammation around the lining of the heart, or a severe rash. A less common form of juvenile arthritis is polyarticular arthritis, which attacks five or more joints within the first six weeks of diagnosis. Though both forms of arthritis will impact a child’s joints, they often manifest first as pain, swelling, and inflammation of the muscles, gastrointestinal tract, skin, eyes, and kidneys. Researchers have yet to determine what causes juvenile arthritis, though there are a number of environmental and prenatal factors that could increase a child’s risk of developing arthritis:
son or daughter experiences is the result of a typical childhood injury that will heal on its own. But without proper treatment, the child will continue to suffer from the pain of juvenile arthritis for the rest of their life. Fortunately, parents do not need to subject their child to NSAIDs or steroid injections that can weaken bones, tendons, and ligaments. Specialized physical therapy can help a child relieve pain and enjoy a better quality of life. A physical therapist can teach a child to move and perform tasks in a way that doesn’t cause pain, instruct parents about ergonomic measures to improve their child’s lifestyle, and recommend dietary supplements to help a childmeet their nutrition needs. The best way to prevent permanent damage to a child’s joints and tissues is through early diagnosis of juvenile arthritis. Don’t assume your child’s pain will go away with time, and don’t let myths about arthritis prevent your child from getting the care they need.
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Certain antibiotics
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Smoking
Caffeine usage
Poor nutrition during pregnancy
C-section
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Alcohol
Lack of breastfeeding
Have a Laugh
Watermelon Salad
Ingredients
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8 cups seedless watermelon, cut into 1-inch cubes
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1/4 cup fresh lime juice 1 pinch of cayenne pepper 1/2 cup mint leaves, torn
Salt to taste
Directions
1. In a large mixing or salad bowl, toss
watermelon with lime juice and cayenne pepper.
2. Gently fold in mint leaves. 3. Sprinkle with salt and serve.
Inspired by Food &Wine magazine
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