Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA)

Definition: Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) is a group of childhood diseases characterized by chronic joint inflammation, sometimes culminating in joint deformities. Other manifestations may include uveitis, fever, weight loss, and skin rashes. The cause is unknown, although it is considered an autoimmune disease.

Tests to consider

  • Check for viral/Lyme/bacterial infections
  • Test for Intestinal Hyperpermeability
  • Test Plasma levels of vitamins A and C, albumin, retinol-binding protein, and zinc
  • Although serum copper levels are elevated in patients with JRA, such an elevation is probably a response to inflammation, not a reflection of copper’s nutritional status.

Lifestyle/diet:

  • Eat a high-protein, nutrient-dense diet
  • Diagnose and treat food allergies
  • Consider an elimination diet: Dairy, soy, wheat, egg, peanut/tree nuts, seafood, refined sugar and nightshade vegetables, tea, coffee, and diet soda.
  • Exercise daily workouts such as water exercises, yoga, Tai chi, etc.
  • Sleep- Get plenty of sleep at night
  • Mind-body: Use stress reduction techniques if needed.

Conventional therapy: includes nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, or glucocorticoids; physical therapy; and psychological counseling. Adverse effects of medications occur frequently in children with JRA.

Integrative Treatments: The following treatment may be useful

  • Supplements: Certain supplements can be effective in the treatment of JRA
  • LDN: Low-dose naltrexone 
  • Homeopathy
  • Acupuncture
  • Massage

To schedule an appointment please contact us

Carolina Integrative Clinic

254 Towne Village Dr, Cary, NC 27513, United States

Email: office@ciclinic.com

Tel: (919) 869-6661

Fax: (919) 301-9349