The Role of Sport in Rheumatic Diseases in Childhood and Adolescence

The results of anti-inflammatory treatment for children and adolescents with rheumatic diseases have been particularly improved within the last 15 years. Still there are significant deficiencies in the treatment of functional impairments. Integration of sport activities has turned out to be a key factor when optimising the existing therapy. Therapy concepts with sport activities in patients with rheumatic diseases have to consider the current status of disease as well as the individual interests of the patients. During the active phases of disease movements should produce only low joint loads, while in inactive phases activities should have proportioned joint loads and in the restitution sport should be practiced with attentiveness. On the basis of results from 3D-gait analysis and physical fitness assessment of children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis a PMW ("preventive mobility workout") (as a practice routine) has been developed at the "Deutsches Zentrum fur Kinder-und Jugendrheumatologie". This programme aims to support the rehabilitation and secondariy aims towards prevention within inactive phases of the disease. The various exercises contribute to improve the mobility, muscle strength, stability and the balance of the patients. The training lasts approximately 10 min and should be performed daily. The inclusion in school sport is desirable and should be decided depending upon disease activity.