Health Care Team
The special expertise of rheumatologists in caring for patients with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis is extremely valuable.
Pediatric rheumatologists are trained in both pediatrics and rheumatology and are best equipped to deal with the complex problems of children with arthritis and rheumatic diseases. However, there are very few such specialists, and some areas of the country have none at all. In such circumstances, a team approach involving the child's pediatrician and a rheumatologist with experience in both adult and pediatric rheumatic disease provides optimal care for children with arthritis. Other important members of the team include physical therapists and occupational therapists.
Treatment Goals
The main goals of treatment are to preserve a high level of physical and social functioning and maintain a good quality of life. To achieve these goals, doctors recommend treatments to:
Most children with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis need medication and physical therapy to reach these goals.
Medications
Several types of medication are available to treat juvenile rheumatoid arthritis:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs)
- Corticosteroids
- Biologic agents
