How to Raise a Child With Arthritis

When it comes to arthritis, many people think of a joint disease that affects the elderly demographic. However, arthritis affects children as well and, according to the Centers for Disease Control, nearly 300,000 children in the U.S. have some form of the disorder. Raising a child with arthritis presents challenges that can be navigated with the right tools, resources and information.

Instructions

    • 1

      Talk with your child about his diagnosis. Let him know that the pain or joint stiffness he is experiencing isn̵7;t happening because of anything he is doing wrong. Allow him to express his emotions. Being angry about a diagnosis is common, especially when there are physical limitations that most other children don't suffer from. Let your child know that it is OK to be angry, and assure him that his diagnosis does not define who he is.

    • 2

      Work with your child to learn signs of increased discomfort and help him learn to listen to his body. Fatigue is often a symptom with arthritis. Your child may need regular breaks or daily rest times to reduce other painful symptoms.

    • 3

      Treat your child as an individual and not as an individual with an illness. Focus on his strengths and not his limitations. Work with him to set realistic goals and expectations. In a family with siblings, treat your children equally. If you expect your children to do daily chores around the house, expect the same of your child with arthritis, but give him modified chores that will consider his limitations.

    • 4

      Work with your child̵7;s medical team to ensure the best quality medical care. Attend all doctor̵7;s visits and therapy appointments. Have your child take all medications as prescribed. Allow your child to voice his concerns with his doctors, so that he understands his role in his care.

    • 5

      Feed your child a healthy, balanced diet to encourage participation in regular physical activities. Maintaining a healthy weight reduces stress on joints and helps keep symptoms from worsening. Low-impact activities, such as walking or swimming, keep the body active without placing increased stress on joints.

    • 6

      Talk with your child̵7;s teachers about possible limitations or his needs for modifications and rest throughout the day. Request a second set of schoolbooks that can remain at home for easier use to help reduce the need to transport and carry heavy backpacks. Create a learning plan that works well for both the school and your child.

    • 7

      Talk to your child̵7;s doctor about possible support groups for you and your child. While you do your best to understand what your child is going through, being able to talk with another child suffering with arthritis lets him know he is not alone.

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