Comprehensive Care for Juvenile Arthritis / Still's Disease at Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health

How Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health Supports Individuals with Juvenile Arthritis and Still's Disease

At Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health, we understand the challenges faced by individuals living with juvenile arthritis (JA) and Still's disease. These autoimmune conditions cause joint inflammation, pain, and stiffness, potentially affecting a child's ability to move and engage in everyday activities. Still’s disease, a more severe form of juvenile arthritis, can also involve systemic symptoms like fever, rashes, and organ inflammation.

Our multidisciplinary team of physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, and exercise physiologistsare dedicated to providing personalized care for individuals with juvenile arthritis and Still's disease. Our goal is to reduce pain, improve mobility, and promote independence through a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to the unique needs of each patient.

What is Juvenile Arthritis / Still's Disease?

Juvenile arthritis (JA) refers to a group of autoimmune conditions that cause inflammation in the joints in children. It can lead to pain, swelling, and reduced mobility. Still's disease, also known as Adult-onset Still’s disease (AOSD) when it affects adults, is a rare and severe form of juvenile arthritis. It causes systemic inflammation, including high fevers, a salmon-colored rash, and organ involvement. Both conditions can lead to long-term joint damage if left untreated.

While juvenile arthritis is commonly diagnosed in children under the age of 16, Still’s disease can affect both children and adults. These conditions require comprehensive care to manage pain, reduce inflammation, and maintain a high quality of life.

How Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health Can Help

Physiotherapy

• Pain Management and Joint Mobility: Physiotherapists work with individuals to improve joint mobility, strength, and flexibility, helping to manage the symptoms of arthritis and reduce joint stiffness. Techniques such as gentle manual therapy, heat therapy, and therapeutic ultrasound are used to alleviate pain and improve movement.

• Exercise Programs: Physiotherapists create personalized exercise programs to improve muscle strength and endurance, which are essential in maintaining function and reducing pain. We also provide guidance on safe stretching to prevent contractures and joint deformities.

• Postural Support: Physiotherapists assist with improving posture and body mechanics to minimize strain on affected joints, helping to maintain proper alignment and reduce fatigue.

Occupational Therapy

• Joint Protection Techniques: Occupational therapists help individuals with juvenile arthritis and Still’s disease develop joint protection strategies to reduce stress on inflamed joints during daily activities, promoting better long-term joint health.

• Daily Living Assistance: Individuals with juvenile arthritis may experience difficulties with daily activities such as dressing, grooming, and meal preparation. Occupational therapists recommend adaptive tools and techniques to make these tasks easier, improving independence.

• Splinting and Assistive Devices: Occupational therapists may recommend splints or assistive devices to provide extra support to affected joints and prevent deformities, particularly in the hands, wrists, and knees.

Speech Therapy

• Swallowing and Feeding Support: In cases where systemic inflammation impacts the ability to swallow or chew, speech therapists offer support to improve swallowing and feeding function, using specialized techniques to ensure safe and efficient nutrition intake.

• Communication Support: If arthritis or systemic inflammation impacts speech, speech therapy helps with articulation, clarity, and communication strategies, ensuring that individuals can express themselves effectively.

Exercise Physiology

• Building Strength and Flexibility: Exercise physiologists design tailored exercise programs to help individuals manage their fatigue and build strength, which can be critical for reducing pain and improving overall functionality.

• Pain Reduction and Mobility: Our exercise physiologists guide clients in performing low-impact aerobic exercises such as swimming or cycling to enhance cardiovascular health and reduce joint pain.

• Fatigue Management: Exercise physiologists work closely with individuals to help manage fatigue, which is a common symptom of both juvenile arthritis and Still's disease, through structured, progressive exercise routines.

Specialized Facilities

• Rehabilitation Gym: Our rehabilitation gym offers a controlled, supportive environment for exercise therapy. Whether you are looking to improve strength, mobility, or endurance, our gym provides all the equipment and space needed for effective rehabilitation.

• Sensory Room: For individuals who experience heightened sensitivity due to systemic inflammation or pain, our sensory room offers a calming environment that promotes relaxation and emotional well-being.

• Kids Therapy Gym: For younger patients, our kids therapy gym features fun, engaging activities designed to improve gross motor skills and physical development while also helping to manage the physical challenges of arthritis.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Juvenile Arthritis / Still's Disease?

Juvenile arthritis refers to a group of autoimmune conditions that cause joint inflammation in children. Still's disease is a severe form of juvenile arthritis that includes systemic inflammation affecting other organs and features such as high fever, rashes, and joint pain.

How can Physiotherapy help individuals with Juvenile Arthritis and Still's Disease?

Physiotherapy focuses on improving joint mobility, muscle strength, and overall physical function. It uses techniques such as manual therapy, exercises, and heat/cold treatments to manage pain and improve mobility.

Can Occupational Therapy assist with managing Juvenile Arthritis?

Yes, occupational therapy can help with joint protection techniques and provide adaptive equipment to make daily tasks easier. It also offers strategies to prevent further joint damage and promote independent living.

How does Speech Therapy help with Juvenile Arthritis and Still's Disease?

Speech therapy assists with swallowing difficulties related to systemic inflammation and can also help with speech articulation if there are any communication challenges.

What role does Exercise Physiology play in treating Juvenile Arthritis and Still's Disease?

Exercise physiologists develop individualized exercise programs to build strength, manage fatigue, and improve cardiovascular health. They also work to enhance overall movement function and reduce pain, making daily activities easier.

Contact Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health Today

If you or a loved one is living with juvenile arthritis or Still's disease, our team at Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health is here to support you. We offer a range of therapies designed to reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance quality of life. Visit www.palmsphysiotherapy.com.au or call us today to book your consultation and begin your journey towards improved health.