Orthopedic complications of childhood obesity

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this article is to describe the orthopedic problems known to be associated with being overweight or obese during childhood to assist the clinician in the evaluation and management of these patients.

Summary of key points: Children who are overweight or obese are becoming an increasing concern in our society; the number of children and teens described as overweight or obese tripled from 1980 to 2000. Many problems have been associated with obesity and are well described in the literature, including cardiovascular problems, diabetes mellitus, liver complications, cholelithiasis, sleep apnea, and specific types of cancer. Orthopedic complications are also related to being overweight or obese during childhood. Specifically, the incidence of spinal complications, slipped capital femoral epiphysis, Blount disease, and acute fractures has been related to being overweight or obese.

Conclusions: Clinicians should be aware of the orthopedic problems related to obesity to better educate individuals as well as to better treat children with this condition.