P027 Assessment of physical activity in Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis

Abstract

Abstract Background Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common chronic rheumatic disease in childhood, grouping together different diseases characterized by arthritis of unknown origin with onset before age of 16 years. JIA may cause functional impairment and a limited exercise capacity thus a reduced time engaged in physical activity. The aim of the study was to describe participation in physical activity among children with JIA. Methods We conducted a descriptive retrospective study including 23 patients with JIA according to the classification criteria of the International League of Associations for Rheumatology ILAR. Demographic data were collected. All patients answered a questionnaire referring to physical activity. Results The mean age of our patients was 16 years old with a sex ratio of 3. The education level was distributed as follows: 8,7% were in elementary school and 21,7% were in high school. Only 4,3% of the children were participating in high loading sports. Twenty-one per cent of the children reported spending >3 h per week in physical activity during leisure time. Participation in compulsory school-educational physical activity was reported in 43,5% of the children and 26,1% reported full participation. Full exemption from school sports was reported in 46.5% of cases and it was mostly associated with functional limitations. Exercise therapy was prescribed in 26.1% of patients and it was mainly swimming. The impact of physical activity on symptoms was divided into 43,5% of the children who reported an aggravation, 8,7% who reported an improvement and 34,8% who didn't report any change. Conclusion Physical activity in childhood is important to acquire knowledge and behavioral skills in order to maintain an active lifestyle. A special attention to children with JIA is required in order to promote their full potential of social interaction and improve long-term outcome.