Relation between Nutritional Status and Bone Healing Outcomes in Pediatric Fractures

Background: Pediatric bone healing is a dynamic biological process influenced by growth and systemic factors, among which nutrition plays a crucial and modifiable role.Aim: To assess the relationship between nutritional status and bone healing outcomes in pediatric fracture patients.Methodology: A hospital-based prospective observational study was conducted among 80 children aged 1-14 years with radiologically confirmed fresh fractures.Nutritional status was evaluated using anthropometry and dietary intake assessments, while bone healing was monitored clinically and radiologically during follow-up.Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Chi-square test.Results: Most participants were males (57.5%) and from rural areas (65%).Although 52.5% had normal body mass index (BMI), 40% had inadequate protein intake, and 45% had inadequate calcium intake.Timely bone healing was observed in 79.2% of adequately nourished children compared to 50% among those with inadequate nutrition.A statistically significant association was found between nutritional status and bone healing outcome ( 2 = 6.84, p = 0.009).Conclusion: Adequate nutritional status, particularly sufficient protein and calcium intake, significantly enhances timely bone healing in children.Routine nutritional assessment should be integrated into pediatric fracture management.