“Juvenile arthritis is very different than the arthritis that grandma gets,” says Dr. John Churchill, a pediatric orthopedic surgeon on the medical staff of The Children's Hospital.

The diagnosis means different things to different age groups. “The osteoarthritis, the wear and tear that older folks get is typically very painful. The arthritis of childhood tends to cause swelling, stiffness in the joints, particularly in the mornings, but usually is not painful,” explains Dr. Churchill.

Just recently, U.S. Senators Barbara Boxer, Kit Bond, and Edward Kennedy re-introduced the “Arthritis Prevention Control and Cure Act of 2009”. The bill authorizes more than $600 million in federal funding to be used toward research.

”Fortunately, most forms of arthritis in childhood tend to get better in time. Although, it can be several years,” adds Dr. Churchill.

He warns parents not to let a diagnosis of arthritis affect the child’s day to day activities. “Typically, we recommend the children maintain an active lifestyle. We like to see the joints moving, to prevent stiffness and have a good range of motion so the best way to do that is to get out and play.”

Signs of juvenile arthritis can be tricky. If your child is complaining of soreness or swelling in the morning on a regular basis, you may want to see a physician.