'It makes me feel sad and it hurts': A 9 year old's life with arthritis

Jamie is the only sibling with arthritis. Credit: ITV West Country

A mother and daughter from Bath have been sharing their experience about having arthritis at a young age.

Nine-year-old Jamie was diagnosed with the condition aged just two. Her mother Josie, 39, has had it since she was 12.

They both have Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) which affects 1 in 1,000 children across the UK.

Arthritis is an inflammation of the joints. It can affect one joint or multiple joints.

JIA is the most common cause of disability in children and when it flares up, it can stop them from taking part in physical activities.

  • Two of the most common types of arthritis amongst adults are osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The symptoms of arthritis usually develop over time, but they may also appear suddenly.

Josie McCarthy has also had arthritis from a very young age. Credit: ITV West Country

Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis means frequent visits to the doctor - weekly injections, monthly blood tests and also quarterly eye tests as it can blindness.

Having arthritis has helped Jamie discover a love for Credit: ITV West Country

The National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society says early diagnosis is key to managing the condition.

Jamie says despite the challenges that come with having arthritis, it's helped her discover a new hobby and is determined not to let it limit her quality of life.

  • Watch their story below: