October 19 is World PB&J Day!
Yes, it’s part of Bone and Joint Action Week. No, it’s not relevant to peanut butter & jelly – other than the fact that both types of PB&Js are important to children!
Pediatric health issues can cause problems that have long-term consequences for musculoskeletal development and health. That’s why it’s important to raise awareness for the musculoskeletal issues that affect children, such as pain, infection, deformity, and joint problems. Especially, since 10% of people affected by disabling musculoskeletal conditions are children.
This year’s theme by the US Bone and Joint Initiative is related to: “Kids, Bones, Joints & Obesity.” That’s because obesity is a major risk factor for pediatric bone and joint issues. Children who have excessive weight can suffer from more severe problems in their backs, hips, and legs due to the fact that they are still growing. Having to carry the extra weight can make stress fractures more likely as well.
That is why we are providing the following tips for helping your children maintain a healthy body weight and prevent bone and joint issues:
- Regular exercise and involvement in an active lifestyle can help you and your family stay fit. It is important to building strong bones and muscles.
- Eat healthy foods that have calcium, vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and anti-inflammatory features.
- If your child has weight issues, make a plan with his or her pediatrician to manage their weight.
- While it’s important to get involved with activities, like group sports or martial arts, they can also be a cause of injury. Be sure to get treatment as soon as an injury occurs to prevent worsening of problems.
- If your children complain of foot or ankle pain, make an appointment with our podiatrists. They may need orthotics or different shoes to help them feel better.
For concerns about your children’s musculoskeletal development, make an appointment today at Alamitos-Seal Beach Podiatry Group for a thorough assessment for how your feet or ankles may be affected. One of our board-certified podiatrists, Dr. Douglas H. Richie, Dr. Jeremy L. Cook, Dr. Faye E. Izadi will be happy to help at either of our Seal Beach, CA and Los Alamitos, CA offices in Orange County.
