Low vitamin D levels in pediatric patients linked to slow healing process

Low levels of Vitamin D can impact the healing of fractures in children, according to research presented during the American Academy of Pediatrics 2024 National Conference & Exhibition at the Orange County Convention Center from Sept. 27-Oct. 1.

The study, “Low Vitamin D Levels Are Associated with Longer Healing Times in Pediatric Fracture Patients,” examined 186 extremity fracture cases in children from 2015 to 2022 and found that low levels of Vitamin D correlated with longer healing times.

This result was found in fractures that did and did not require surgery as well as when comparing clinical healing times to radiographic healing times.

Leg fractures in children with low Vitamin D levels that did not require surgery took an extra 20 days to heal clinically and two months longer to show signs the fracture was disappearing in X-rays. As for those cases where surgery was needed, healing took an extra month to heal clinically and nearly four months for fractures to fade on X-rays.

“Previous studies have focused more on how Vitamin D can help prevent fractures but now we are seeing a link between low vitamin D levels and longer fracture healing times,” said Jessica McQuerry, MD, senior author on the study. “Children need to be given well-balanced diets that include Vitamin D for overall health and to make sure when accidents do happen, they can heal appropriately.”

Vitamin D is primarily found in dairy products such as milk, cheese and yogurt but can also be found in fish and other foods fortified with Vitamin D such as breakfast cereal. Moderate exposure to sunlight can also help the body absorb Vitamin D.

Study authors recommended checking vitamin D levels if your child has a fracture that is taking longer to heal than typical.

“Getting outside and enjoying the fresh air can do wonders for your health while also upping Vitamin D absorption,” Dr. McQuerry said. “What a great excuse to get outside and explore nature.”