A new set of resources and an online community support site have been launched for children and families living with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and other musculoskeletal conditions.

Launched by Musculoskeletal Australia, the new MSK Kids program will provide an MSK Kids Care Pack that include the ‘Rheum Record’ is a 20 page booklet for parents and school staff containing information  and tips on how to effectively manage JIA and conditions such as lupus, back pain and fibromyalgia in children.

The pack also include a Health Care Plan for kids with JIA and other musculoskeletal that allows parents and healthcare professionals to ensure up to date information is available at all times.

MSK is also be rolling out MSK Kids Live, an online portal that connects kids with a chronic illness living anywhere in Australia and New Zealand.

The group says it developed the new JIA resources in partnership with paediatric rheumatology departments at a number of hospitals including The Royal Children’s, Monash Children’s and John Hunter Hospital as well as consumer groups and school nurses.

“People don’t realise that kids get arthritis too and that it is as common as type 1 diabetes for the same age group,” said MSK CEO Rob Anderson.

“In fact, 1 in 800 Australian kids (0-17) are living with JIA. We’ve created tools to enable kids to feel more supported at home, in school and allow their teachers and friends to understand what they’re going through.”

“To be able to create a community for these kids and their parents allows for greater support and understanding about what they’re experiencing.” Mr Anderson continued, “At MSK the consumer is at the centre of everything we do, and this program is no different. We have worked with parents, carers and kids to ensure that what we are delivering is what they need, how they need it.”