Tips to help a young person living with arthritis

People associate osteoarthritis with ageing – but it can affect young adults and children, too. When your child or a young person you love has an arthritic condition such as rheumatoid arthritis or juvenile arthritis, supporting their health—both physically and mentally—is crucial. Here are some caring tips to help you navigate this journey with them.

Physical Health

Healthy diet
Encourage a balanced, low-fat diet with plenty of vitamins and minerals. This can help manage symptoms and maintain a healthy weight.

Vitamin D and calcium
Ensure your child gets enough sunlight exposure (around 10–15 minutes daily on bare skin) and consumes foods rich in vitamin D (e.g., oily fish, fortified cereals) and calcium (e.g., dairy, green vegetables, Greek yoghurt, milk).

Healthy treats
Strike a balance by offering healthy alternatives to sugary treats, like dried fruit, yogurts, or wholemeal snacks.

Exercise

Regular activity
Regular exercise is essential for managing weight and maintaining joint mobility. Make it fun—consider using star charts or incorporating exercise into playtime.

Encouragement
Encourage non-contact activities like swimming, cycling, or dancing, which are gentle on the joints.

Family time
When the whole family is involved, your child may feel less like they are being “punished” or “made” to exercise. Try morning stretches, a family cycle through the park, dancing, walking or swimming.

Oral Hygiene and eye care

Oral health
Use an electronic toothbrush and alcohol-free mouthwash, especially if sore joints affect hand and wrist movement. A habit of brushing together may help too.

Eye checks
Regular eye exams are important to monitor for uveitis, a potential complication.

Mental health

Open communication
Teenagers may feel different and like they don’t fit in. Be supportive and listen to your child's feelings about their condition. Encourage them to ask questions and seek support from healthcare professionals.

Maintain routine
Stick to normal routines as much as possible to provide stability.

Address body image
Understand the emotional impact of physical changes due to medication. Provide reassurance and seek support from healthcare professionals if needed.

Treatment and support

Engage with healthcare team
Stay informed about treatment plans and medication. Involve your child in decision-making as they grow more independent.

Feedback
Share your experiences and suggestions with healthcare providers to improve services.

Connection
Living with arthritis can feel isolating for a young person. Ask your healthcare team about support groups especially for young people for age-relevant resources and care.

School and social life

Two-way communication
Inform teachers about your child's condition and any accommodations needed. They need to know how to support and include your child in activities, plus the signs which indicate they are struggling. These may be written into a care plan which is shared between parents and teachers.

Encourage socialising
Help your child navigate social situations and address any concerns they have about friendships or relationships.

Self-care
Rest is also important. Help your child realise when saying “no” will replenish their energy levels more than pushing on. Suggest calming activities for these moments.

Achievements and study

Advocate
Give your child the words the explain their condition quickly and simply if they need to. It may be something like “I have something called arthritis, which makes my joints hurt.”

Celebrate achievements
Acknowledge their accomplishments and milestones, no matter how small, to boost confidence and self-worth.

Higher education
Consider working with an occupational therapist to help create an ideal environment for your child to study and work. Online courses and part-time study can be other supportive options.

Growing up

Health habits
Educate your child about healthy lifestyle choices, including avoiding smoking, alcohol and drugs. Depending on the situation, their condition or medications may be affected by these substances. Your Pharmacist can help with any questions about medications.

Sexual health
Discuss safe sex practices and contraception, especially if your child is taking medication like methotrexate.

Parenting

Anyone planning a family will benefit from considering their support network – even more so when adding arthritis to the mix. If your child is old enough to be considering becoming a parent, start this conversation with them.

Remember, you're not alone. Your healthcare team is there to support you and your child every step of the way. Prioritise your child's well-being and encourage them to live life to the fullest despite arthritis.

General advice only – this information should not replace the information provided to you by your health care professional. If symptoms are severe or persist, please speak to your health care professional. Information current as of date of publishing.

Sources:

https://oaaction.unc.edu/2019/05/myths-about-osteoarthritis/

https://www.physio-pedia.com/Osteoarthritis_in_Young_People

https://lifemd.com/learn/osteoarthritis-in-young-adults-could-arthritis-arise-in-your-20s

https://versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/young-people/information-for-parents/