The Role of Hydro-Kinesiotherapy After Intra-Articular Steroid Infiltration in the Management of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: A Non-Randomized Observational Pre–Post Study with Parallel Groups

TL;DR

This study explores how hydro-kinesiotherapy affects children with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis after steroid injections, finding potential benefits in pain and quality of life.

Contribution

The study evaluates the added value of hydro-kinesiotherapy in JIA treatment following steroid injections in a non-randomized observational design.

Findings

HKT group showed non-statistically significant improvements in CHAQ and VAS scores.

Statistically significant improvements were found in CHQ-PF50 self-esteem and pain subscales for the HKT group.

HKT may contribute to better pain management and quality of life in children with JIA.

Abstract

Background: Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) is the most prevalent rheumatological disease in childhood. It is classified into seven subtypes, each with specific clinical features. The pathogenesis of JIA involves an increased inflammatory response. Treatment options include pharmacological therapy, patient education, physical therapy, and rehabilitation. Methods: Patients received IAC injections and were subsequently divided into two groups: one group underwent HKT, while the other did not. The effects of HKT were assessed before treatment and one month after the IAC injections and initiation of HKT, using the Child Health Assessment Questionnaire (CHAQ), Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and the Child Health Questionnaire—Parent Form 50 (CHQ-PF50). Results: Data were analyzed using the t-test. The HKT group showed non-statistically significant improvements in CHAQ and VAS scores compared to the non-HKT group. However, statistically significant differences were observed in the CHQ-PF50, particularly in the self-esteem and pain subscales. Conclusions: Although global differences between groups were not statistically significant, the group that underwent HKT demonstrated better scores, suggesting that HKT may reduce pain and contribute to improved quality of life in children with JIA.

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