YOGA FOR CHILDREN WITH JUVENILE IDIOPATHIC ARTHRITIS

Functional Reach Test (FRT)

This test evaluates dynamic balance and limits of stability. Participants stand barefoot or with flat-molded shoes parallel to a wall, with the shoulder flexed at 90 degrees and the arm extended forward to establish a baseline. For the forward reach, participants reach as far forward as possible without taking a step. The distance between the initial and final positions is measured in centimeters (cm). The test is repeated three times, and the average score is recorded. Higher scores indicate better dynamic balance and stability.

1-Minute Sit-to-Stand Test (1STST)

This test assesses lower extremity muscle endurance and functional capacity. Participants sit on a standard-height chair with their arms crossed over their chest. Upon the "start" command, they perform as many full sit-to-stand repetitions as possible within 1 minute. The number of correctly completed repetitions is recorded. Higher repetition counts indicate superior lower extremity muscular endurance.

Lateral reach test

This test evaluates dynamic balance. The patricipants leaning against the wall with the shoulder flexed at 90 degrees and the arm extended forward to establish a baseline. For the test, they reach as far sideways as possible without trunk rotation. The distance between the initial and final positions is measured in centimeters (cm). The test is repeated three times, and the average score is recorded. Higher scores indicate better dynamic balance and stability.

Biering-Sorensen Test for Trunk Extensor Endurance

This test evaluates the isometric endurance of the trunk extensor muscles. Participants lie prone on an examination table with their pelvis, hips, and lower extremities secured. The upper trunk is positioned horizontally off the edge of the table, and participants are instructed to maintain this unsupported horizontal position for as long as possible. The duration for which the position is maintained is recorded in seconds. Longer duration indicates better back extensor muscle endurance.

Sit-and-Reach Test

This test measures the flexibility of the hamstring muscles and the lumbar spine. Participants sit in a long-sitting position with knees fully extended and bare feet placed flat against the testing box. They reach forward with both hands as far as possible without bending the knees. The maximum distance reached by the fingertips is recorded in centimeters (cm). The best trial out of three attempts is used for evaluation. Higher values represent better hamstring and lower back flexibility.

Curl-Up Test for Abdominal Endurance

This test is utilized to assess abdominal muscle endurance. Participants lie in a supine position with knees flexed and feet secured. They are instructed to perform as many correct curl-ups as possible within a specified standard time or cadence. The total number of correctly executed repetitions within the time frame is recorded. A higher number of repetitions indicates greater abdominal muscle endurance.

Push-Up Test for Upper Body Endurance

This test evaluates upper extremity and shoulder girdle muscular endurance. Participants start in a prone plank position with hands shoulder-width apart and a straight trunk. They perform consecutive push-ups using proper elbow flexion-extension technique. Modified push-ups (e.g., knee push-ups) may be applied depending on the child's age and physical capacity. The total number of correctly completed repetitions is recorded. Higher counts reflect better upper body muscular endurance.