Scoliosis and Functional Outcomes in Children With Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is a chronic inflammatory disease that may negatively affect musculoskeletal development, posture, and overall physical function in children. Although peripheral joint involvement is well characterized, axial and postural abnormalities, including scoliosis, are not routinely assessed during follow-up despite their potential clinical significance.

This cross-sectional study aims to evaluate the presence of scoliosis in children with JIA and to investigate its relationship with disease activity, functional status, pain, and postural alignment. Comprehensive clinical assessments, including physical examination, disease activity scores, and functional evaluation tools, will be performed. Where applicable, postural analysis and imaging findings will also be considered.

By identifying the frequency and clinical impact of scoliosis in JIA, this study seeks to improve awareness of spinal involvement and to provide a basis for early recognition and multidisciplinary management strategies, including targeted physiotherapy interventions.

Inclusion criteria

• Age between 8 and 18 years at the time of enrollment
• Diagnosis of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) according to ILAR criteria
• Written informed consent obtained from parent/legal guardian and assent from the child/adolescent, when appropriate

Exclusion criteria

• Known scoliosis due to non-JIA causes (e.g., congenital vertebral anomalies, neuromuscular disorders, or syndromic scoliosis)
• History of prior spinal surgery or current brace treatment for scoliosis
• History of significant spinal trauma or spinal infection/tumor affecting spinal alignment
• Presence of coexisting chronic conditions that significantly affect posture, gait, or functional testing (e.g., severe neurologic impairment) and may confound assessments
• Inability to undergo required assessments (e.g., inability to stand for radiographs or complete functional measures)