title: Physical modalities of therapy in pediatric rheumatic diseases.
abstract: The approach to rehabilitation management of childhood rheumatic disease differs in many ways from that of adult disease. Among the special considerations are the effects of chronic musculoskeletal inflammation in a growing and developing individual and the tendency of children to tighten their joints into positions of comfort, with fewer problems resulting from ligamentous laxity and instability. A comprehensive management approach includes much more than simply using medications--the tendency for the disease to exert deforming forces on the limbs must be constantly fought by a vigorous program of rehabilitation; education and psychologic support must be provided to the patient and family; potential problems must be discussed with the school; financial and vocational issues must be addressed.
authors.affiliation: Division of Pediatric Immunology/Rheumatology, University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine.
authors.forename: H M
authors.initials: HM
authors.lastname: Emery
authors.forename: S L
authors.initials: SL
authors.lastname: Bowyer
mesh_terms: D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D001171:Arthritis, Juvenile / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy*; D006128:Growth; D006801:Humans; D010349:Patient Compliance; D010806:Physical Education and Training; D010807:Physical Endurance; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities / Q000379:methods; D010988:Play and Playthings; D016138:Walking