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Updated: Jun 6, 2026
09:36
Assessment of Child Anthropometry in a Large Epidemiologic Study
Published on: February 2, 2017
Obesity in pediatric orthopaedics.
F Keith Gettys1, J Benjamin Jackson, Steven L Frick
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, NC 28232, USA.
The Orthopedic Clinics of North America
|November 25, 2010
Summary
Childhood obesity is a growing epidemic in the US, doubling prevalence since 1980. This article details common orthopedic conditions in obese children, including tibia vara and slipped capital femoral epiphysis.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Orthopedics
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Childhood obesity is a significant and escalating public health issue in the United States.
- Prevalence has more than doubled since 1980, indicating an epidemic.
- Obesity-related hospitalizations and costs have significantly increased.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe common orthopedic conditions in overweight and obese children and adolescents.
- To highlight the association of specific orthopedic conditions with childhood obesity.
- To discuss challenges in providing orthopedic care to obese pediatric patients.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of existing research on childhood obesity and orthopedic conditions.
- Identification of classic orthopedic conditions associated with pediatric obesity.
- Discussion of clinical observations and challenges in orthopedic management.
Main Results:
- Infantile and adolescent tibia vara and slipped capital femoral epiphysis are classically encountered orthopedic conditions in obese children.
- Genu valgum is also frequently associated with obesity in this population.
- Providing effective orthopedic care for obese children presents unique difficulties.
Conclusions:
- Childhood obesity is linked to specific orthopedic conditions requiring specialized attention.
- Early identification and management of these conditions are crucial for pediatric orthopedic health.
- Addressing the orthopedic needs of obese children is essential for improving patient outcomes.
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