Yoga Versus Home Exercise Program in Children With Enthesitis Related Arthritis

The Comparison of the Effects of Yoga and Home Exercise Program in Children With Enthesitis Related Arthritis

The aim of this study is to compare the effectiveness of different exercises programs as 'Yoga' and 'Home Exercise' in Enthesitis Related Arthritis.

Enthesitis is the localized inflammation in the attachments of muscles, ligaments, fascia to bone. Enthesitis related arthritis is a sub-form of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) and primarily lower extremities, spine, and sacroiliac joints. In the literature, exercise therapy is found beneficial to improve bone density, muscle strength and functionality without leading adverse effects in these children.

Recently yoga has emerged as a new exercise approach which consist of both physical an mental components to improve self-awareness and mindfulness. However, the effects of yoga did not investigated in JIA patients. The only evidence is a case study which reports improvements in pain and stiffness in a child with JIA.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Being between 13-18 years
2. Having a diagnosis of enthesitis related arthritis
3. Having a diagnosis at least 6 months ago
4. Being able to understand exercise instructions
5. Consent of family and the patient

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Any contraindication to perform exercise (neurological, cardiovascular etc.)
2. Change in medication