YOGA FOR CHILDREN WITH JUVENILE IDIOPATHIC ARTHRITIS

Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) is a chronic autoimmune condition starting before age 16, often leading to fatigue, joint stiffness, and decreased physical activity. While exercise is widely recommended to improve functional capacity in children with JIA, the effectiveness of specialized mind-body exercises like yoga is still being explored. This study aims to investigate the impact of an 8-week, telerehabilitation-based yoga program on children with JIA. Participants will engage in 45-minute individual yoga sessions twice a week via Zoom, led by certified physiotherapists. The sessions will progress in difficulty and focus on breathing techniques, physical postures, and meditation to improve the overall physical and mental well-being of the children.

Inclusion Criteria: * Being between 8 and 12 years of age. * Diagnosed with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) by a pediatric rheumatologist. * Having no major changes in pharmacological treatment within the last 3 months. * Having reliable internet access and the necessary technological equipment to participate in online video sessions. * Voluntary participation in the study. * Providing written parental informed consent and child assent. Exclusion Criteria: * Being in an acute disease flare-up/attack period. * Having undergone orthopedic surgery within the last 6 months. * Presence of severe cardiopulmonary or neurological conditions that contraindicate participating in yoga exercises. * Cognitive level or impairment that prevents the child from following instructions and verbal cues. * Regular participation in another structured exercise or physical rehabilitation program.