A Youthful Approach to Arthritis Care

Having lived almost my whole life with juvenile arthritis, I spent quite a lot of time at the pediatric rheumatology ward. Although I love the adult rheumatologist I began seeing a few years ago, I can't help but admit I miss the children's hospital. It was so much more fun to go for doctor's appointments back then.

But the playful nature of the children's ward did more than entertain me. It helped me learn to approach life in a more colorful and intimate way. Small but common practices in pediatrics can make even the hardest of situations a little better.

Add a pop of color

There are always colorful band-aids, casts, and mobility aids available for kids. That was not something I was ready to give up just because I turned 18 or 21. If I have to use a mobility aid, I am going to have fun with it. In my opinion, adults are entitled to color, accessorizing, and anything else that makes them feel good.

Buying a cane at age 19 was a hard, depressing decision. The thought of using an icon associated with my grandparents was soul-crushing. But the moment I saw a bubblegum pink cane, I knew it was coming home with me.

Sure, I was still using a cane. But pink is my favorite color, and it matched my personality. People never commented that I was too young to be using it. Instead, they told me how cute it was!

Surround yourself with comfort

Children's hospitals always emphasize the importance of keeping your support system close. And whenever possible, they always recommend bringing a few familiar items. Being around your favorite people and items can bring a lot of comfort.

As people with chronic pain, we go through a lot of unpleasant moments. While it doesn't take away the pain, being surrounded by support and tokens of joy does make it easier. On bad days, I wear my favorite pajamas and snuggle with my fur baby.

It's okay to cry

When I was at the children's hospital, it was almost expected to hear crying. It was heartbreaking. But it's also a natural reaction for children. Kids cry at the sight of doctors, shots, and anything that is remotely frightening or painful. And, if I'm being honest, sometimes I wish I could do that now.

You don't have to be brave all the time. It is hard to go home after a discouraging doctor's appointment. It is hard to be unable to do everyday tasks. And it's so hard to live with chronic pain.

If you need to cry, do it. Don't force yourself to hold everything all the time. Whether you do so privately in the shower or on the shoulder of a loved one is up to you. But don't bottle up all that pain.

An organic approach

Sometimes, I wish the adult ward felt as organic as the children's ward. But painted walls and fun activities can only do so much. It's about the comforting approach towards care that makes things a little bit better.