Exercise and fitness in children with arthritis: evidence of benefits for exercise and physical activity

ATHLETIQUE: interest of an adapted physical activity program in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis: a feasibility and preliminary effectiveness study

Background

Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) is associated with joint inflammation, pain and limited joint mobility, impacting the practice of physical activities. Adapted Physical Activities (APA) are an increasingly used method of rehabilitation, but additional studies are needed to define the nature of the most appropriate physical activity for patients with JIA. The "ATHLETIQUE" project aims to evaluate the impact of a program integrating APA sessions with use of a pedometer watch, on disease activity in patients with JIA.

Methods

This study will be a randomized, multicenter, open-label, controlled clinical trial with 2 parallel arms. The patients included in this study will be children and adolescents with JIA, aged 6 to 17 years. The experimental group (30 patients) will participate in an APA program for 3 months and will use a pedometer watch for one year. We will evaluate and compare the change in disease activity measurements (primary objective), fatigue, pain, quality of life, level of physical activity, functional capacities, and muscle strength (secondary objectives) after 14, 26 and 50 weeks. The control group (10 patients) will undergo the same evaluations as the experimental group but will not participate in the APA program and will not wear the pedometer watch.

Expected results

The APA program may help to promote an active lifestyle with regular physical activity, preventing comorbidities and motor disability. Promising results on disease activity, functional capacities and quality of life would enable us to envisage a larger research program with a view to optimizing and assessing APA for children with JIA.

Discussion

This study will be conducted in the short and medium-term, with one-year follow-up, including 3 months of APA sessions for the experimental group. The sessions proposed during the APA program will mainly be aerobic and bodyweight exercises. Furthermore, in contrast to previous studies on this topic, our study will integrate a novel element, namely the use of a pedometer watch. This watch will help to implement strategies to address motivation. This study aims to improve physical and mental well-being, provide a basis for the design of a larger study, and propose recommendations adapted to children with JIA.

Trial registration

Registered with ClinicalTrials.gov under the number NCT05572424.

Novel aspects of muscle involvement in immune-mediated inflammatory arthropathies and connective tissue diseases

Myalgia, myopathy and myositis are the most important types of muscle impairment in immune-mediated inflammatory arthropathies and connective tissue diseases. Multiple pathogenetic and histological changes occur in the striated muscles of these patients. Clinically, the most important muscle involvement is the one that causes complaints to the patients. In everyday practice, insidious symptoms present a serious problem for the clinician; in many cases, it is difficult to decide when and how to treat the muscle symptoms that are often present only subclinically. In this work, authors review the international literature on the types of muscle problems in autoimmune diseases. In scleroderma histopathological picture of muscle shows a very heterogeneous picture, necrosis and atrophy are common. In rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus, myopathy is a much less defined concept, further studies are needed to describe it. According to our view, overlap myositis should be recognized as a separate entity, preferably with distinct histological and serological characteristics. More studies are needed to describe muscle impairment in autoimmune diseases which may help to explore this topic more in depth and be of clinical use.

Physical activity as a promising alternative for young people with juvenile idiopathic arthritis: Towards an evidence-based prescription

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common rheumatic disease in young people. Although biologics now enable most children and adolescents with JIA to enjoy clinical remission, patients present lower physical activity and spend more time in sedentary behavior than their healthy counterparts. This impairment probably results from a physical deconditioning spiral initiated by joint pain, sustained by apprehension on the part of both the child and the child's parents, and entrenched by lowered physical capacities. This in turn may exacerbate disease activity and lead to unfavorable health outcomes including increased risks of metabolic and mental comorbidities. Over the past few decades, there has been growing interest in the health benefits of increased overall physical activity as well as exercise interventions in young people with JIA. However, we are still far from evidence-based physical activity and / or exercise prescription for this population. In this review, we give an overview of the available data supporting physical activity and / or exercise as a behavioral, non-pharmacological alternative to attenuate inflammation while also improving metabolism, disease symptoms, poor sleep, synchronization of circadian rhythms, mental health, and quality of life in JIA. Finally, we discuss clinical implications, identify gaps in knowledge, and outline a future research agenda.

Physical Activity Influences Health-Related Quality of Life in Adults with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis

This cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate the impact of physical activity and physical fitness on the health-related quality of life (HQoL) of adult patients with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA). Fifty-nine JIA patients and sixty healthy individuals participated in this study. All individuals had the following evaluations performed: body composition (electrical bioimpedance), physical fitness (6 min walk test (6MWT)), physical activity level (International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ)), and HQoL (Quality of Life Questionnaire in relation to Health-Short Form (SF36)). Thirty-nine (66%) JIA patients were considered sedentary compared with 15 (25%) in the control group (p < 0.01). JIA patients had a lower HQoL compared with the control group in all variables studied (p < 0.05). JIA patients who were very physically active had better HQoL conditions in the categories of functional capacity (p = 0.001), limitations by physical aspects (p = 0.003), and emotional aspects (p = 0.002) compared with sedentary patients. JIA patients had more cardiovascular abnormalities and walked shorter distances compared with healthy controls in the 6MWT. In conclusion, we observed that HQoL was reduced in adults with JIA. A high percentage of JIA patients were sedentary with lower physical fitness, but physically active patients had a better HQoL than sedentary patients. The duration of physical activity, rather than intensity, influenced the mental aspects of HQoL.

Efficacy of physical activities on children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis: a randomized controlled trial

Background

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is one of the serious chronic rheumatic disorders in children and adolescents which results in less physical activities and restlessness hours than their peer. The study aims to assess the efficacy of physical fitness training exercises on aerobic capacity and muscular strength of children with JIA. Sixty-five children with JIA were included in the study, out of a total of 70 children who were screened for eligibility. Children were randomized to a control group (n = 32) who received hot packs, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), and strengthening exercises, or a study group (n = 33) who received a physical fitness training program (hydrotherapy pool exercises, bicycle ergometer, and treadmill apparatus) in addition to what had been given to the control group. Both groups were engaged in a training program for 12 consecutive weeks for three times per week. Evaluation was done pre- and post-interventions included: peak oxygen uptake (Vo2 peak) during an incremental treadmill test and muscle strength assessed by isokinetic dynamometer.

Results

The current study showed that there were significant differences between pre- and post-interventions in both groups (P < 0.05). Comparing the two groups, there were statistically significant differences between children in both groups in favor of the study group (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Physical fitness exercise training resulted in improved aerobic capacity and muscle strength of children with JIA. The obtained results suggested that children with arthritis could participate in formal exercise testing and structural physical fitness program.

Trial registration

PACTR, PACTR201907504136763. Registered on May 21, 2019. Retrospectively registered, https://pactr.samrc.ac.za/TrialDisplay.aspx?TrialID = 8150.

A wearable activity tracker intervention for promoting physical activity in adolescents with juvenile idiopathic arthritis: a pilot study

BACKGROUND

Children and adolescents with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) are less physically active than their healthy peers and are at high risk of missing out on the general health benefits of physical activity. Wearable activity trackers are a promising option for intervening in this population with potential advantages over traditional exercise prescriptions. The objectives of this study were to: (1) determine the feasibility of a wearable activity tracker intervention in adolescents with JIA; and (2) estimate the variability in response to a wearable activity tracker intervention on the physical activity levels of adolescents with JIA.

METHODS

Participants aged 12-18 years with JIA were recruited during their routine rheumatology clinic visits at a tertiary care hospital. Participants completed the 3-Day Physical Activity Recall self-reported questionnaire at baseline, 1 week and 5 week follow-up. At the 1 week follow up, participants were instructed to start wearing an activity tracker for 28 consecutive days. Participants completed a feasibility questionnaire at their end of study visit. Participant demographics, adherence rates and feasibility outcomes were summarized using descriptive statistics. The effect of wearing a tracker on moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and total metabolic equivalents (METs) per day were analyzed using a paired t-test.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight participants (74% female; median age 15.1, range 12.8-18.6) were included in the analysis. All of the participants were able to synchronize the activity tracker to a supported device, use the activity tracker correctly and complete the study measurements. On average, participants had activity logged on their smartphone application for 72% of the intervention period. The standard deviation of the change in mean METs/day was 12.148 and for mean MVPA blocks/day was 3.143 over the study period.

CONCLUSION

Wrist worn activity tracking is a feasible intervention for adolescent patients with JIA. More research is needed to examine the effect of activity tracking on physical activity levels.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Not an applicable clinical device trial as per the criteria listed on ClinicalTrials.gov as the primary objective is feasibility.

Physical activity in patients with oligo- and polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis diagnosed in the era of biologics: a controlled cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Knowledge about objectively measured levels of physical activity (PA) and PA participation (included facilitators and barriers for PA) in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) diagnosed in the era of biologics is limited. We aimed to compare objectively measured PA in patients with oligo- and polyarticular JIA diagnosed in the biologic era with controls and to examine associations between PA and disease variables; furthermore, to explore participation in PA, physical education (PE) and facilitators and barriers for PA participation in patients and controls.

METHODS

The study cohort included 60 patients (30 persistent oligo JIA/30 poly-articular disease) and 60 age- and sex-matched controls. Age range was 10-16 years and 83% were female. PA was measured with accelerometry for seven consecutive days. Disease activity, current treatment, disease duration, functional ability, pain and fatigue were assessed. Structured interviews were applied to explore participation in PA and PE, and PA facilitators and barriers.

RESULTS

Patients spent less time in daily vigorous PA than controls, (mean(SE) 21(2) min vs. 26(2) min, p = 0.02), while counts per minute (cpm), steps daily, sedentary time and light and moderate PA did not differ. No differences were found between JIA subgroups. The use of biologic medication was associated with higher cpm and lower sedentary time. Most patients and controls participated in organized or unorganized PA and PE, and enjoyment was the most reported facilitator for PA participation. More patients than controls reported pain as a PA barrier.

CONCLUSION

The PA levels and participation in patients with oligo- and polyarticular JIA are mostly comparable to controls, but patients still need to be encouraged to increase vigorous PA. Enjoyment is the most important facilitator for PA participation in patients with JIA.

Perceived Impairment in Sports Participation in Adolescents With Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: A Preliminary Examination

OBJECTIVE

Physical activity (PA) is important for adolescents with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) given the increased risk of developing osteoporosis and the increased risk of IBD-related complications among those with IBD and obesity. Symptoms such as fatigue, abdominal pain, nausea, and frequent bowel movements can interfere with PA. Sports participation is an important source of PA for adolescents; however, the extent to which IBD interferes with sports participation is unstudied. The present study aimed to examine demographic, health-related, physical, and psychosocial correlates of perceived impairment in sports participation.

METHOD

Seventy-six adolescents (M[SD] = 14.5 [1.8] years, 45% girls) completed surveys of perceived impairment in sports participation, demographics, physical health, and psychosocial health. Physicians rated disease activity at enrolment. All participants were diagnosed with IBD for at least a year and prescribed a daily oral medication.

RESULTS

Nearly half of participants reported at least occasional interference in sports participation because of their IBD. Active disease (P = 0.014), older age (P = 0.006), and poorer disease-specific quality of life, and quality of life in physical health and psychosocial domains were associated with greater impairment in sports participation in bivariate analyses (P < 0.001). In regression analyses, systemic disease-related symptoms, body image concerns, and older age emerged as the strongest predictors of impairment in sports participation (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Older adolescents, those with greater systemic symptoms, and those with poorer body image may be particularly at risk for impairment in sports participation. Addressing barriers to sports participation may be a useful strategy in enhancing PA in this patient group.

Evaluation of Fitness and the Balance Levels of Children with a Diagnosis of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: A Pilot Study

Background: Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is a main cause of physical disability and has high economic costs for society. The purpose of this study was to assess the fitness levels and the postural and balance deficits with a specific test battery. Methods: Fifty-six subjects were enrolled in this study. Thirty-nine healthy subjects were included in the control group and seventeen in the juvenile idiopathic arthritis group. All subjects were evaluated using a posturography system. The fitness level was evaluated with a battery of tests (Abalakov test, sit-up test, hand grip test, backsaver sit and reach, the toe touch test). An unpaired t-test was used to determine differences. Pearson’s correlation coefficient was used to evaluate the correlation between the tests. Results: The battery of tests demonstrated that subjects in the juvenile idiopathic arthritis group have lower fitness levels compared to the control group. The juvenile idiopathic arthritis group showed low postural control with respect to the control group. Pearson analysis of the juvenile idiopathic arthritis group data showed significant correlations between variables. Pearson’s results from the control group data showed a similar trend. Conclusions: The results suggest that the battery of tests used could be an appropriate tool. However, we highlight that these conclusions need to be supported by other studies with a larger population scale.

Protecting Bone Health in Pediatric Rheumatic Diseases: Pharmacological Considerations

Bone health in children with rheumatic conditions may be compromised due to several factors related to the inflammatory disease state, delayed puberty, altered life style, including decreased physical activities, sun avoidance, suboptimal calcium and vitamin D intake, and medical treatments, mainly glucocorticoids and possibly some disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs. Low bone density or even fragility fractures could be asymptomatic; therefore, children with diseases of high inflammatory load, such as systemic onset juvenile idiopathic arthritis, juvenile dermatomyositis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and those requiring chronic glucocorticoids may benefit from routine screening of bone health. Most commonly used assessment tools are laboratory testing including serum 25-OH-vitamin D measurement and bone mineral density measurement by a variety of methods, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry as the most widely used. Early disease control, use of steroid-sparing medications such as disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs and biologics, supplemental vitamin D and calcium, and promotion of weight-bearing physical activities can help optimize bone health. Additional treatment options for osteoporosis such as bisphosphonates are still controversial in children with chronic rheumatic diseases, especially those with decreased bone density without fragility fractures. This article reviews common risk factors leading to compromised bone health in children with chronic rheumatic diseases and discusses the general approach to prevention and treatment of bone fragility.

Measuring Physical Activity in Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: Activity Diary Versus Accelerometer

Objective.

(1) To determine convergent validity of an activity diary (AD) and accelerometer (Actical brand/Phillips-Respironics) in measuring physical activity (PA) in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). (2) To determine how many days give reliable results. (3) To analyze effects of correcting accelerometer data for non-wear.

Methods.

Patients with JIA (8–13 yrs) were recruited from 3 Dutch pediatric rheumatology centers. PA was assessed for 7 days with an AD and accelerometer, and was expressed as mean min/day of rest, light PA (LPA), moderate to vigorous PA (MVPA), and PA level (PAL). To analyze convergent validity, intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) were calculated and paired sample Student t tests were performed. The required number of days to achieve reliable results was calculated using the Spearman-Brown prophecy formula.

Results.

Convergent validity between AD and accelerometer was moderate for rest and PAL (ICC 0.41). ICC for LPA and MVPA were < 0.24. AD overestimated PAL and MVPA compared with the accelerometer. Wearing the accelerometer 7–19 days gave reliable PA estimates on group and individual levels. For the AD, 13–36 days were needed. Adjusting accelerometer data for non-wear resulted in a clinically relevant higher mean number of min/day spent in LPA (effect size 1.12), but not in MVPA (effect size 0.44).

Conclusion.

Convergent validity between AD and accelerometer is moderate to poor. In children with JIA, 1-week assessment with an accelerometer is sufficient to measure PA (all levels) reliably. On an individual level and for clinical use, 3 weeks are required. Additional use of AD enables correction for non-wear of accelerometer data.

Physical activity in children with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis compared to controls

BACKGROUND

To compare physical activity (PA) in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) with controls and to analyse the effect of disease specific factors on PA in children with JIA treated according to current treatment regimes.

METHODS

PA was measured with a 7-day activity diary and expressed as physical activity level (PAL). Moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) (hours/day) and sedentary time (hours/day) was determined. In children with JIA, medication, the number of swollen and/or painful joints, disease activity, functional ability, pain and well-being was determined. Multivariate regression analysis was performed to analyze differences in PA between JIA and controls, adjusted for influences of age, gender, season, Body Mass Index (BMI) and to analyze predictors of PA in JIA patients.

RESULTS

Seventy-six children with JIA (26 boys and 50 girls, mean ± SD age 10.0 ± 1.4 years) and 131 controls (49 boys and 82 girls, mean ± SD age 10.4 ± 1.2 years) participated in this study. Children with JIA had a significantly lower PAL (0.10, p = 0.01) corrected for age, BMI, gender and season. They spent less time in MVPA (0.41 h/day, p = 0.06) and had a significantly higher mean time spent in sedentary activities (0.59 h/day, p 0.02) compared to controls. The activity level of children with JIA was related to age, gender, season, feeling of well-being and pain.

CONCLUSION

Children with JIA have a lower PAL, spent less time in MVPA and spent more time on sedentary activities compared to controls despite current medical treatment and PA encouragement.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Data of the children with JIA are from the Rheumates@work study ISRCTN92733069 .

Participation in Leisure Activities among Canadian Children with Arthritis: Results from a National Representative Sample

OBJECTIVE

To describe the level of participation in leisure activities among children and youth with arthritis, as well as to identify the sociodemographic (age, sex, family income), disease-related (functional limitations, disease duration, pain, medication use, child's need for assistance), and contextual factors (use of rehabilitation services, proximity of local recreation facilities, cost of activities) that may be associated.

METHODS

Data from the Participation and Activity Limitation Survey (PALS) 2006, a Canadian postcensus survey, was analyzed. Bivariate and multivariable linear regression analyses were applied to examine the associations between the sample's level of participation in leisure activities, and sociodemographic, disease-related, and contextual characteristics.

RESULTS

In Canada in 2006, an estimated 4350 children ranging in age from 5 to 14 years were living with arthritis. Fifty-six percent of parents reported that arthritis restricted their child's participation in leisure activities. Bivariate analysis showed that the availability of local recreational facilities, the affordability of activities, and the child not requiring any assistance were all associated (modified Bonferroni correction α < 0.005) with greater participation in various types of leisure activities. Multiple linear regressions showed that higher family income (β 0.47, 95% CI 0.09, 0.85) and greater perceived pain (β 0.59, 95% CI 0.07, 1.10) were positively associated with involvement in informal leisure.

CONCLUSION

Our findings underline the importance of considering contextual factors in developing treatment plans aimed at improving participation in leisure activities among children with arthritis. Future longitudinal studies targeting children living with arthritis could provide pertinent information on participation over fluctuations in disease status.

Can I play?

Physical activity and participation in sports are important for the well being of children and youth and should be encouraged by health care providers. Individuals with chronic diseases are often less active, which can have a negative impact on their health. This article will review the effects of exercise on a few chronic medical conditions including juvenile arthritis, cystic fibrosis, and hypertension. The clinician's role in providing advice about sport participation will also be addressed.

Treatment preferences in juvenile idiopathic arthritis - a comparative analysis in two health care systems

BACKGROUND

Variations in the treatment of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) may impact on quality of care. The objective of this study was to identify and compare treatment approaches for JIA in two health care systems.

METHODS

Paediatric rheumatologists in Canada (n=58) and Germany/Austria (n=172) were surveyed by email, using case-based vignettes for oligoarticular and seronegative polyarticular JIA. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics; responses were compared using univariate analysis.

RESULTS

Total response rate was 63%. Physicians were comparable by age, level of training and duration of practice, with more Canadians based in academic centres. For initial treatment of oligoarthritis, only approximately half of physicians in both groups used intra-articular steroids. German physicians were more likely to institute DMARD treatment in oligoarthritis refractory to NSAID (p<0.001). Canadian physicians were more likely to switch to a different DMARD rather than a biologic agent in polyarthritis refractory to initial DMARD therapy. For oligoarthritis and polyarthritis, respectively, 86% and 90% of German physicians preferred regular physiotherapy over home exercise, compared to 14% and 15% in Canada. Except for a Canadian preference for naproxen in oligoarthritis, no significant differences were found for NSAID, intra-articular steroid preparations, initial DMARD and initial biologic treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment of oligo- and polyarticular JIA with DMARD is mostly uniform, with availability and funding obviously influencing physician choice. Usage of intra-articular steroids is variable within physician groups. Physiotherapy has a fundamentally different role in the two health care systems.

Evaluation of static and dynamic postural balance in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis

PURPOSE

To evaluate balance in children with lower limb involvement due to juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA).

METHODS

Twenty-five children with JIA manifesting lower extremity arthritis within the previous year and 36 children who were healthy (aged 8-18 years) were assessed by using the Biodex Balance System (BBS) (Biodex, Shirley, New York). Single-leg static balance (BBS level 12) and bilateral static and dynamic balance (BBS levels 2 and 7) were measured. Lower extremity strength, disease activity, function, and pain were also assessed.

RESULTS

: Ten subjects with JIA (40%) could not complete single-leg balance testing, while all controls did (P < .0001). Bilateral dynamic balance was impaired only at BBS level 2 (most unstable). Lower extremity weakness correlated with poor balance.

CONCLUSION

A significant proportion of children with leg arthritis have impaired balance. Proprioceptive exercises may emerge as an important therapy in the treatment of lower extremity arthritis.

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis and athletic participation: are we adequately preparing for sports integration?

Children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) now have well-controlled disease due to improved therapies and management strategies. Children with JIA are more active than in the past and often participate in dynamic, high-loading sports. Standard measures of disease control include examination findings, laboratory values, and patient-directed surveys. However, these standards do not address the subtle deficits in biomechanics and neuromuscular control, which could place affected joints at higher risk for injury. Currently, there are limited evidence-based guidelines to structure conditioning recommendations as to the fitness and mechanics needed to provide safe integration into sports in this population; therefore, tools that objectively measure function with high accuracy and precision may be warranted. Previous work using 3-dimensional motion analysis demonstrated usefulness in guiding physical therapy treatment to correct these deficits. The use of a multidisciplinary team, including physical therapy, rheumatology, and sports medicine, is crucial for preparing these children to return to play. We suggest that the child transition into a sport preparatory-conditioning program to address any underlying deficits. A pediatric exercise specialist who is sensitive to the needs of this population can work with a physical therapist to then appropriately integrate the child safely into sport. Encouraging an active lifestyle is vital to the management of JIA and does not worsen the symptoms associated with childhood arthritis.

Physical activity, physical fitness, and exercise therapy in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis

Arthritis in childhood can be associated with low levels of physical activity and poor physical fitness. Children with arthritis may have decreased aerobic and anaerobic fitness, muscle weakness, low bone mass, and low bone strength. Suboptimal physical activity and exercise capacity may contribute to further deconditioning and disability, placing children with arthritis at risk for poor health outcomes. Recent studies suggest that exercise therapy is safe and does not worsen arthritis. Exercise therapy may improve function, quality of life, and physical fitness. However, little is known about the exercise prescription that is most effective to improve clinical outcomes in children with arthritis. This article reviews the current literature on physical activity, physical fitness, and exercise therapy in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis.

Treatment for a 14-year-old girl with Lyme disease using therapeutic exercise and gait training

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Lyme disease is well documented in the literature; however, specific physical therapy interventions for the pediatric population with residual effects of Lyme disease have not been addressed. The purposes of this retrospective case report are: (1) to present an example of a therapeutic intervention for a pediatric patient in the late stages of Lyme disease with related musculoskeletal dysfunction and severely impaired quality of life, (2) to report the patient's functional outcomes from treatment, and (3) to discuss implications for treatment of patients with musculoskeletal dysfunction in the late stages of Lyme disease.

CASE DESCRIPTION

The patient was a 14-year old girl who had contracted Lyme disease 1 year prior to initiation of physical therapy. She was unable to participate with her peers in school, church, and sporting events due to significant impairments in strength (force-generating capacity), endurance, and gait; fatigue; pain; and total body tremor. Therapeutic exercise and gait training were used for treatment. The patient actively participated in managing her care by providing feedback during interventions and setting goals.

OUTCOMES

After 18 weeks of treatment, the patient achieved 96.7% of her predicted distance on the Six-Minute Walk Test with normal gait mechanics and returned to playing high school sports. She had a manual muscle test grade of 4/5 or greater in major extremity muscle groups. She returned to school and church participation with minimal total body tremor when fatigued and daily pain rated 0 to 3/10.

DISCUSSION

Therapeutic exercise and gait training may facilitate return to function in an adolescent patient with late effects of Lyme disease. Further investigation is advised to establish treatment effects in a broader population.

Physical activity recommendations for children with specific chronic health conditions: Juvenile idiopathic arthritis, hemophilia, asthma and cystic fibrosis

As a group, children with a chronic disease or disability are less active than their healthy peers. There are many reasons for suboptimal physical activity, including biological, psychological and social factors. Furthermore, the lack of specific guidelines for 'safe' physical activity participation poses a barrier to increasing activity. Physical activity provides significant general health benefits and may improve disease outcomes. Each child with a chronic illness should be evaluated by an experienced physician for activity counselling and for identifing any contraindications to participation. The present statement reviews the benefits and risks of participation in sport and exercise for children with juvenile arthritis, hemophilia, asthma and cystic fibrosis. Guidelines for participation are included.

The Utrecht approach to exercise in chronic childhood conditions: the decade in review

PURPOSE

To summarize and discuss current evidence and understanding of clinical pediatric exercise physiology focusing on the work the research group at Utrecht and others have performed in the last decade in a variety of chronic childhood conditions as a continuation of the legacy of Dr Bar-Or.

KEY POINTS

The report discusses current research findings on the cardiopulmonary exercise performance of children (and adolescents) with juvenile idiopathic arthritis, osteogenesis imperfecta, achondroplasia, hemophilia, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, cystic fibrosis, and childhood cancer. Exercise recommendations and contraindications are provided for each condition. Implications for clinical practice and future research in this area are discussed for each of the chronic conditions presented.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

The authors provide a basic framework for developing an individual and/or disease-specific training program, introduce the physical activity pyramid, and recommend a core set of clinical measures to be used in clinical research.

Promoting physical activity in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis through an internet-based program: results of a pilot randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

Patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) are less physically active than healthy peers. Therefore, we developed an Internet-based intervention to improve physical activity (PA). The aim of this study was to examine the effectiveness of the program in improving PA.

METHODS

PA was determined by activity-related energy expenditure, PA level, time spent on moderate to vigorous PA, and the number of days with > or =1 hour of moderate to vigorous activity, and was assessed with a 7-day activity diary. Aerobic exercise capacity was assessed by means of a Bruce treadmill test and was recorded as maximum endurance time. Disease activity was assessed by using the JIA core set. Adherence was electronically monitored.

RESULTS

Of 59 patients, 33 eligible patients were included and randomized in an intervention (n = 17, mean +/- SD age 10.6 +/- 1.5 years) or control waiting-list group (n = 16, mean +/- SD age 10.8 +/- 1.4 years). All patients completed baseline and T1 testing. PA significantly improved in both groups. Maximum endurance time significantly improved in the intervention group but not in the control group. In a subgroup analysis for patients with low PA (intervention: n = 7, control: n = 5), PA improved in the intervention group but not in the control group. The intervention was safe, feasible, and showed a good adherence.

CONCLUSION

An Internet-based program for children with JIA ages 8-12 years directed at promoting PA in daily life effectively improves PA in those patients with low PA levels. It is also able to improve endurance and it is safe, feasible, and has good adherence.

Physical activity recommendations for children with specific chronic health conditions: juvenile idiopathic arthritis, hemophilia, asthma, and cystic fibrosis

As a group, children with a chronic disease or disability are less active than their healthy peers. There are many reasons for suboptimal physical activity, including biological, psychological, and social factors. Furthermore, the lack of specific guidelines for 'safe' physical activity participation poses a barrier to increasing activity. Physical activity provides significant general health benefits and may improve disease outcomes. Each child with a chronic illness should be evaluated by an experienced physician for activity counselling and for identifying any contraindications to participation. The present statement reviews the benefits and risks of participation in sport and exercise for children with juvenile arthritis, hemophilia, asthma, and cystic fibrosis. Guidelines for participation are included.

Land-Jump Performance in Patients with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA): A Comparison to Matched Controls

Objective. The purpose of this study was to determine if high functioning children with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) with minimal disease activity have different biomechanics during high loading tasks compared to controls. Patients were included if they had minimal inflammation documented in one or both knees. Methods. The subject groups consisted of eleven patients with JIA and eleven sex, age, height, and weight matched controls. Sagittal plane kinematic and kinetics were calculated during a drop vertical jump maneuver. The Child Health Assessment Questionnaire (CHAQ) was collected on each patient with JIA. Results. The subjects with JIA had increased knee (P = .011) and hip flexion (P < .001) compared to control subjects. Subjects with JIA also demonstrated decreased knee extensor moments during take-off (P = .028) and ankle plantar flexor moments during landing (P = .024) and take-off (P = .004). In the JIA group, increased hip extensor moments were predictive of increased disability (R² = .477, SEE = .131). Conclusions. Patients with JIA may demonstrate underlying biomechanical deviations compared to controls. In addition, biomechanical assessment of hip extensor mechanics during dynamic tasks may provide an objective assessment tool to determine overall function in patients with JIA.

Chronic pediatric inflammatory diseases: effects on bone

In children, chronic inflammatory diseases present a significant challenge to long-term skeletal health. These conditions are often associated with poor appetite and suboptimal overall nutrition, altered nutrient utilization, delayed puberty, inactivity, and reduced muscle mass, all of which can alter bone metabolism. In addition, bone cell activity is susceptible to the effects of the immune response that characterizes these diseases. Moreover, drugs used to treat these maladies, notably glucocorticoids, may have negative effects on bone formation and on linear growth in developing children. As a result, predicted peak bone mass may not be achieved, and fracture risk may be increased in the short term or in the future. Studies using primarily dual energy X-ray absorptiometry have documented that deficits in bone mass are common in these diseases. However, there are wide variations in the prevalence of low bone mass, largely due to differences in the characteristics of each study population. Recent studies provide insight into the pathogenesis of decreased bone mass in these conditions. In this paper we will provide an overview of the effects of chronic inflammatory conditions on bone mass in children. We will also present relevant data from adult patients, when pediatric data are scant or not available.

Aerobic and anaerobic exercise capacity in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis

OBJECTIVE

To compare the aerobic and anaerobic exercise capacity of children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) with healthy controls, to determine if there were differences based on disease onset type, and to examine the relationship between aerobic and anaerobic exercise capacity in children with JIA.

METHODS

Sixty-two patients with JIA (mean +/- SD age 11.9 +/- 2.2 years, range 6.7-15.9) participated in this study. Aerobic exercise capacity was measured using a cardiopulmonary exercise test. Anaerobic exercise capacity was measured using the Wingate Anaerobic Exercise Test (WAnT).

RESULTS

All patients were able to perform the cardiopulmonary exercise test and WAnT without adverse events. On average, the maximal oxygen uptake (VO(2peak)) and VO(2peak/kg) were 69.8% and 74.8%, respectively, of that predicted compared with healthy controls. Mean +/- SD power was 66.7% +/- 37.2% of that predicted compared with healthy children. Mean +/- SD peak power was 65.5% +/- 43.1% of that predicted compared with healthy children. There were significant differences between subgroups of JIA; the oligoarticular-onset group values did not significantly differ from healthy control values; the polyarticular rheumatoid factor positive-onset subgroup had the greatest impairment in both aerobic and anaerobic exercise capacity. The correlations of mean power and peak power with VO(2peak) were r = 0.884 and r = 0.697, respectively (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that both the aerobic and anaerobic exercise capacity in children with JIA are significantly decreased. The WAnT might be a valuable adjunct to other assessment tools in the followup of patients with JIA.

Effects of adherence to treatment on short-term outcomes in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis

OBJECTIVE

To determine the impact of adherence to treatment (medication and prescribed exercise) on outcomes in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA).

METHODS

In this longitudinal study, we studied parents of patients with JIA at the Montreal Children's Hospital and British Columbia Children's Hospital in Vancouver. Adherence was evaluated on a visual analog scale in the Parent Adherence Report Questionnaire. Outcomes of interest were active joint count, pain, child functional score on the Child Health Assessment Questionnaire, quality of life score on the Juvenile Arthritis Quality of Life Questionnaire, and parental global impression of overall well-being. The association between adherence to treatment and subsequent outcomes was evaluated using generalized estimating equations and logistic regression.

RESULTS

Mean age and disease duration of our sample of 175 children were 10.2 and 4.1 years, respectively. Moderate adherence to medication was associated with lower active joint count (odds ratio [OR] 0.47, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 0.22-0.99). Moderate adherence to exercise was associated with better functional score (OR 0.13, 95% CI 0.03-0.54), and lower pain during the last week (OR 0.14, 95% CI 0.04-0.50). Both high and moderate adherence to exercise were associated with parental perception of global improvement.

CONCLUSION

Improved outcomes in patients who adhered to treatment underscores the need for clinicians to address adherence issues with their patients. Sustaining adherence, particularly to the more time-consuming treatment of exercise, is a challenge.

Aerobic and anaerobic exercise capacity in adolescents with juvenile idiopathic arthritis

OBJECTIVE

To examine the aerobic and anaerobic exercise capacity in adolescents with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) compared with age- and sex-matched healthy individuals, and to assess associations between disease-related variables and aerobic and anaerobic exercise capacity.

METHODS

Of 25 patients enrolled in a JIA transition outpatient clinic, 22 patients with JIA were included in this study (mean +/- SD age 17.1 +/- 0.7 years, range 16-18 years). Aerobic capacity was examined using a Symptom Limited Bicycle Ergometry test. Anaerobic capacity was assessed with the Wingate Anaerobic Test. Functional ability was assessed with the Childhood Health Assessment Questionnaire. Pain and overall well-being were measured using a visual analog scale. Disease duration and disease activity were also assessed.

RESULTS

Absolute and relative maximal oxygen consumption in the JIA group were significantly impaired (85% and 83% for boys, respectively; 81% and 78% for girls, respectively) compared with healthy controls. Mean power was also significantly impaired (88% for boys and 74% for girls), whereas peak power was significantly impaired for girls and just failed significance for boys (67% for girls and 92% for boys). A post hoc analysis correcting for underweight and overweight demonstrated that body composition did not influence the results substantially.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that adolescents with JIA have an impaired aerobic and anaerobic exercise capacity compared with healthy age- and sex-matched peers. The likely cause for this significant impairment is multifactorial and needs to be revealed to improve treatment strategies.

Exercise, stress, and inflammation in the growing child: from the bench to the playground

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

It is becoming increasingly clear that physical activity in children plays a critical role in growth and development, therapy for certain chronic diseases and disabilities, and in the pediatric origins of a variety of bone, metabolic, and cardiovascular diseases. New mechanistic insights have created the opportunity for a phase shift in understanding of the links between exercise and health in the context of the growing child.

RECENT FINDINGS

Exercise even in healthy children profoundly alters stress, immune, and inflammatory mediators including peripheral blood mononuclear cells and circulating pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines (like interleukin-6). Moreover, exercise even in healthy adults stimulates the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mediators that attenuate them. Oxidative stress, in turn, alters growth and stress mediators. Both ROS and stress/inflammatory factors interact with powerful growth mediators like growth hormone and insulinlike growth factor-I. These findings suggest specific ways in which the balance between pro- and anti-inflammatory, catabolic, and anabolic factors associated with exercise can influence health and growth in children.

SUMMARY

To address the current epidemic of physical inactivity and obesity in children and to optimize the therapeutic effects of exercise in children with disease and disability will require real changes in environments (eg, schools and playgrounds); innovative approaches to rehabilitation of children with chronic disease and disability; and enlightened training of child health professionals. Identifying novel exercise mechanisms involving stress, inflammation, and growth factors will help guide these efforts.

Bone disease in pediatric rheumatologic disorders

Children with rheumatic disorders have multiple risk factors for impaired bone health, including delayed growth and development, malnutrition, decreased weight-bearing activity, inflammation, and glucocorticoid therapy. The impact of rheumatic disease during childhood may be immediate, resulting in fragility fractures, or delayed, because of suboptimal peak bone mass accrual. Recent years have seen increased interest in the effects of pediatric rheumatic disorders on bone mineralization, such as juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and juvenile dermatomyositis. This review outlines the expected gains in bone size and mass during childhood and adolescence, and summarizes the advantages and disadvantages of available technologies for the assessment of skeletal growth and fragility in children. The varied threats to bone health in pediatric rheumatic disorders are reviewed, with emphasis on recent insights into the molecular mechanisms of inflammation-induced bone resorption. The literature assessing bone deficits and risk factors for impaired bone health in pediatric rheumatic disorders is reviewed, with consideration of the strengths and limitations of prior studies. Finally, future research directions are proposed.