Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: Treatment With Heat, Cold, or Water
Topic Overview
Muscle spasms around joints affected by
juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) can cause
significant pain and movement problems. Each child may respond differently, so
choose the therapy that makes your child feel better.
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Heat therapy. Joints that are not swollen may benefit
from heat in the form of heating pads, hot packs, or warm whirlpools.
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Cold therapy. Ice or cold packs can be applied
following heat therapy or can be used alone.
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Water therapy (hydrotherapy). Soaking in warm water
while doing stretches may relieve pain, strengthen muscles, and make movement
easier.
Credits
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By
|
Healthwise Staff |
|
Primary Medical Reviewer
|
Susan C. Kim, MD - Pediatrics |
|
Specialist Medical Reviewer
|
John Pope, MD - Pediatrics |
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Last Revised
|
June 5, 2012 |
Last Revised:
June 5, 2012