Research conducted at Loyola University Chicago, Department of Psychology has updated our knowledge about pediatric psychology in children
2007 OCT 22 -- Research findings, 'Brief report: use of complementary and alternative medicine and psychological functioning in Latino children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis or arthralgia,' are discussed in a new report. "' To describe the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) and its relationship to symptoms of anxiety, depression, and dysthymia in Latino children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) or arthralgia. Parents of 36 children between the ages of 6 and 16 years with either JIA (n=17) or arthralgia (n=19) completed questionnaires during routine pediatric rheumatology clinic visits assessing use of CAM and psychological functioning," investigators in the United States report. "CAM was used by the majority of children primarily to treat pain episodes. The most common modalities were prayer and massage therapy. CAM use was associated with decreased symptoms of anxiety and dysthymia in children with arthralgia, but not in children with JIA. Preliminary findings suggest that CAM use is associated with improved psychological functioning in children with arthralgia," wrote K. Zebracki and colleagues, Loyola University Chicago, Department of Psychology. The researchers concluded: "Healthcare providers are encouraged to routinely screen for CAM usage and to educate families about the potential benefits and limitations of CAM." Zebracki and colleagues published their study in the Journal of Pediatric Psychology (Brief report: use of complementary and alternative medicine and psychological functioning in Latino children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis or arthralgia. Journal of Pediatric Psychology, 2007;32(8):1006-10). For additional information, contact K. Zebracki, Loyola University Chicago, Dept. of Psychology, IL 60626 USA.. The publisher of the Journal of Pediatric Psychology can be contacted at: Oxford University Press Inc., Journals Dept., 2001 Evans Rd., Cary, NC 27513, USA. Keywords: United States, Arthralgia, Arthritis, Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis, Mental Health, Pediatric Psychology. This article was prepared by Pain & Central Nervous System Week editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2007, Pain & Central Nervous System Week via NewsRx.com.
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