Not surprisingly, a recent National Institute of Health study indicated that kids who are severely overweight have an increased risk for muscle pain, joint pain, bone deformities and even broken bones. Remember, your child is growing and developing – when they are severely overweight it can create undue stress on their still developing bones including nutritional issues.
The obesity unit at the NIH National Institute of Child Health and Human Development states that there are more than six million U.S. children who are severely overweight. These kids suffer more muscle, joint and bone problems than normal kids. The study concentrated on 227 extremely overweight kids and teenagers.
They compared the reported health issues and pain with another 128 kids in a normal, healthy weight range. The study found a greater risk for fractures in kids who were in their adolescence. They also found evidence of bone deformity where their lower legs did not line up right with their upper legs.
These deformities can cause issues with gait and lead to severe pain in the knees and ultimately may lead to arthritis and more joint pain in the knees. The information on the study was published at the WebMD and will be detailed in the June issue of Pediatrics.
Activity Is Better
When you sign your kids up for a lot of activities, you might think that you are putting them at greater risk for breaking bones. However, this is not always true. Yes – while your kids may get more scraped knees and bruises when they are active and involved in high energy fitness activities — you have to remember the greater the mass you have the more vicious a short fall can be on the body.
The muscle and mobility pain that accompanies being severely overweight. The associated aches, pains and potential fractures can lead to injuries and resistance to becoming more active. It really is a vicious cycle and one that we experience as adults – so don’t be surprised when your kids do. There are a lot of reasons to get your kids up and active – but their overall health, internal and bones – it’s better for them and for you.
So take advantage of the warm weather – get your kids up and get them active!