FROM MY PT SCHOOL NOTES · PEDIATRICS · CHAPTER 10
Juvenile arthritis, fragile bone and congenital contractures
Similar-looking loss of ROM may arise from different tissue conditions and demands very different loading decisions.
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis
The original JIA lecture contrasts systemic and joint presentations and emphasizes fluctuating inflammatory symptoms. Ask about pain, fever, swelling, morning stiffness, fatigue and function. Monitor medical treatment plans and avoid forcing activity during uncontrolled inflammation.
Osteogenesis imperfecta
OI involves bone fragility and variable severity. Equipment, handling, strength and mobility plans must respect fracture risk, existing deformity and specific medical/surgical precautions. Avoid unnecessary impact or forceful joint manipulation.
Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita
AMC describes multiple joint contractures present at birth; it is not a single uniform cause. Functional alignment, safe range, positioning, orthoses and participation needs vary widely. Goals emphasize useful movement and independence rather than normalizing every joint angle.
Try a clinical decision
Two children have limited elbow extension: one has active inflammation, the other a congenital fixed contracture. Should they receive the same manual treatment?
No. Evaluate tissue irritability, stability, restrictions, risk of fracture, joint structure and the child's functional aims before choosing an intervention.
Original class sources: 2 Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis.pdf, 10 Osteogenesis Imperfecta.pdf, 11 Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita.pdf, 1 Orthopedic Management.pdf
This is a focused summary from personal PT-school notes, not a substitute for medical evaluation, an instructor course or a current clinical guideline.
