144 chapter 16
Range-of-motion exercises for children with arthritis
For a child with arthritis, it is important that every
day he move his body, arms, and legs through as
full a range of motion as possible.
But this is not always easy. Pain and stiffness make
straightening of joints difficult. So before starting to
exercise, take steps to calm the pain and relax the tense
muscles. Aspirin helps do this. Take it half an hour
before beginning exercise (or before getting up to help
morning stiffness).
Note: Range-of-motion
exercises for different
joints are described in
Chapter 42. Here we
discuss ways to make
them easier for children
with arthritis.
Heat helps relax muscles and calm pain. Suggestions for applying hot soaks and hot
wax are on p. 132. If many joints are painful, it helps to lie in warm water (a little warmer
than body temperature).
If possible, get or make a tub large enough
for the child to lie straight and to stretch his
arms and legs in all directions.
Warm water not only helps calm pain, but
gently lifts and takes the weight off body parts
This makes motion easier. Support the child
only as much as needed so that his arms and
legs are loose and held up by the water. Ask
him to relax completely. Let him begin to move
his arms and legs. The more he relaxes, the
more they will straighten as he moves.
Ideas for making tubs or
water pits heated by the sun
are on p. 133.
Find ways for the child to play
in the water. This will help
him forget his pain and make
straightening the joints easier.
In moments when she has her leg or
arm most straight, ask her to hold that
position a moment without bending.
This way, little by little, she will find
she can straighten her joints more and
more.
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