Musculoskeletal Pain and Vitamin D Deficiency in Children: A Pilot Follow-up Study of Vitamin D Therapy in Musculoskeletal/Orthopedic Conditions.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in pediatric populations is high. In the present study we analyzed associations between vitamin D therapy and pain, mobility, fatigue, and daily functioning in children with musculoskeletal/orthopedic conditions suffering from chronic and recurrent pain, but also diagnosed with vitamin D deficiency. MATERIAL AND METHODS Children with different musculoskeletal/orthopedic conditions and vitamin D deficiency were prescribed to receive vitamin D over 6 months. Thirty-five children (18 males; age 10.48 ± 3.87 years) completed a 6-month follow-up. Self- and parent/proxy rating scales were used to evaluate pain, movement, fatigue, and daily functioning. RESULTS At a six-month follow-up assessment involving child- and parent-reported scores, worst pain intensity significantly decreased (p ≤ 0.03) after vitamin D therapy, as well as functioning problems related to pain (p ≤ 0.01). The children reported better movement and balance with less fatigue. The parents reported better functioning in everyday activities of their children. CONCLUSION This pilot study showed that vitamin D therapy possibly reduces pain intensity and improves mobility and daily functioning in children with musculoskeletal/orthopedic disorders, chronic recurrent pain, and vitamin D deficiency. Further follow-up and randomized studies are required in order to assess the validity of clinical recommendations.