Vitamin D Deficiency Delays Bone Healing in Children by Weeks

New research shows children with low vitamin D levels take significantly longer to recover from fractures, highlighting the nutrient's crucial role in pediatric orthopedic care.

• A study presented at the American Academy of Pediatrics 2024 National Conference found that children with low vitamin D levels experience prolonged healing times after fractures.
• Children with leg fractures and low vitamin D levels needed an additional 20 days for clinical healing and two months longer for radiographic healing compared to peers with normal levels.
• In cases requiring surgery, children with low vitamin D experienced an extra month for clinical healing and nearly four months longer for radiographic healing.
• The study analyzed 186 cases of extremity fractures in children from 2015 to 2022, with over 60% of patients showing low vitamin D levels.
• Experts recommend a well-balanced diet rich in vitamin D, along with outdoor activities to boost vitamin D levels, as preventive measures for optimal bone health and recovery.

3 Articles

Study Finds Newsweek Tech Explorist