The Insidious Effects of Childhood Obesity on Orthopedic Injuries and Deformities.

The current childhood obesity epidemic, affecting approximately 20% of American children and adolescents, is accompanied by unique orthopedic manifestations. The growing musculoskeletal system is susceptible to the endocrine effects of obesity, resulting in decreased bone mass and quality. As a result, obese children are at increased risk of musculoskeletal injury, fracture, and lower extremity deformities. The efficacy of nonoperative treatment such as casting or bracing may be limited by body habitus and surgical treatment is accompanied by increased risk of perioperative complications.