As we wrap up Bone and Joint Action Week, let’s focus on World Pediatric Bone and Joint Day, also known as PB&J Day. Tomorrow, October 19th, is a day to raise awareness for musculoskeletal issues in children and youth. Many bone and joint issues begin from childhood and continue through adulthood. In fact, 10% of people affected by a disabling musculoskeletal condition are children.
This year’s theme is “Kids, Bones, Joints & Obesity – Tips for Parents and Patients, and Primary Care Providers”. Children who are obese are a much higher risk of developing musculoskeletal problems, so it’s very important to look out for signs and symptoms to catch and treat them early.
Musculoskeletal Issues will most strongly affect the following parts of the body in obese children:
- Back: Obese children are more likely to have back pain.
- Hips: The hip growth plate can be affected or injured by excessive weight in developing children, causing pain in the groin area or outer hip joint.
- Legs: Obese can make bowed legs or knock knees worse. X-rays can help determine the extent of the problem.
Prevention and early treatment will help reduce the chance of musculoskeletal issues affecting them when they are adults. The following are tips for health bones and joints for your children:
- Have them eat a well-balanced and nutritious diet, including plenty of sources of calcium, vitamin D, as well as omega-3 fatty acids. Dairy, dark leafy greens, fatty fish, and plenty of sunshine are examples of food sources.
- Make sure they engage in regular exercise to prevent or reduce overweight and obesity issues. Aerobic exercises, as well as some weight-bearing exercises are important to keeping bones healthy and strong.
- Small injuries can become much worse if it is not treated promptly for developing children who are overweight.
For foot and ankle injuries, consult with our board-certified podiatrist, Dr. Brandon Macy. We are here to treat your family’s needs at The New Jersey Children’s Foot Health Institute at Clark Podiatry Center. Make an appointment to see us today at our Clark, NJ office.