Physical training for children and adolescents with Juvenile Dermatomyositis.

Aim of this intervention study is to determine the effects of an individual tailored 12 weeks home-based exercise program on the aerobic fitness and muscle strength of patients with Juvenile Dermatomyositis. Furthermore, the wash-out effects of the intervention program after another 12 weeks will be determined. Thirty children with Juvenile Dermatomyositis between 8 and 18 years will be randomly assigned in two groups (RCT). Children allocated to the intervention group will receive the exercise program. Children in the control group will only receive usual care during these 12 weeks, hereafter they also will receive the exercise program.

An individual tailored 12 weeks home-based exercise training program will increase the physical fitness, muscle strength, and quality of life, and will reduce levels of fatigue of patients with Juvenile Dermatomyositis.

Intervention group:

1. Measurement 1: 12 weeks training;

2. Measurement 2: 12 weeks usual care;

3. Measurement 3.



Control group:

1. Measurement 1: 12 weeks usual care;

2. Measurement 2: 12 weeks training;

3. Measurement 3: 12 weeks usual care;

4. Measurement 4.

Treadmill training and strength training, minimal twice a week at home (30-60 minutes per session), for 12 weeks. The control group also enters the training arm directly after completing the initial protocol.