Arthritis is commonly seen as a condition that affects aging or elderly adults. Unfortunately, this painful, and often debilitating disease does not discriminate on the age of its victims. There are many faces of arthritis and those suffering can be as young as 2yrs old. The month of July is a time used to raise awareness to Juvenile Arthritis, a musculoskeletal disorder which consists of more than 100 autoimmune and inflammatory conditions that develops in children ages 16 years and younger.

You may not know this, but juvenile arthritis is one of the most common childhood diseases in the United States affecting 294,000 children under the age of 18.¹ Juvenile arthritis has many forms which can be damaging to children’s joints, bones, muscles, cartilage and many other connective tissues that can at times leave them debilitated. Juvenile arthritis is classified under three different categories: juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA), juvenile chronic arthritis (JCA), juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). The most common form in is JIA; which begins before the age of 16yrs old.

Common Symptoms of Juvenile Arthritis include:

• Pain, swelling, tenderness and stiffness of joints, causing limited range of motion
• Joint contracture, which results from holding a painful a flexed position for an extended period
• Damage to joint cartilage and bones that can lead to joint deformity and impairment
• Altered growth of bone and joints leading to short stature

The primary goal in juvenile arthritis management is to control inflammation, help with pain relief, prevent joint damage, and maximize functional abilities. Overall treatment of children who develop juvenile arthritis varies, depending on the form of arthritis; however, the general plan includes physical activity/therapy, education, proper health care (including eye and dental care), and proper nutrition.

At Youngevity, we always stress proper nutrition starting with the 90 essential nutrients. Ensuring children are receiving proper bone & joint support is vital. Youngevity’s Beyond Osteo-fx™ contains calcium, Vitamin D3, magnesium, glucosamine and many other vitamins and minerals needed to support healthy bones and joints at all ages. Plus, when taken with the other essential nutrients, you can help support optimal health and help control chronic inflammation. Youngevity’s Shellfish-free Healthy Body Start Pak™ contains our Beyond Tangy Tangerine® canister, Beyond Osteo-fx™ and easy-to-swallow Ultimate Multi-EFA™.

This month let’s take time to get proper nutrients those who need it the most, our children! Remember prevention is the key!

Rocio Ramos Contributing Writer and Fitness Instructor

¹ http://www.arthritis.org/ja-fact-sheet.php