Fitness Integrative Training for Pediatric Rheumatology Disorders

Fitness Integrative Training for Pediatric Rheumatology Disorders (FIT Teens II): a Pilot Feasibility Study

This study evaluates the feasibility of the Fitness Integrative Training program for Teens (FIT Teens 2), a combined cognitive behavioral therapy and neuromuscular exercise training program in patients with pediatric rheumatic diseases and/or joint hypermobility.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Pediatric rheumatic diseases (PRD) or joint hypermobility (JH) diagnosed by a pediatric rheumatologist or pain physician.
• Initial diagnosis ≥ 3 months ago
• Ages 10-19 years, inclusive
• Ongoing symptoms of musculoskeletal pain and/or fatigue for at least 3 months
• Functional Disability Index (FDI) Score ≥ 13 indicating at least moderate disability.
• Child has written and spoken proficiency in English and parent has written and spoken proficiency in English or Spanish (will have a certified bilingual provider or interpreter available)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Untreated major psychiatric diagnoses (e.g., major depression, bipolar disorder, psychoses) or documented developmental delay.
• Any other medical condition determined by their physician to be a contraindication for exercise.
• Childhood Myositis Assessment Scale (CMAS) ≤ 30