World Pediatric Bone and Joint Day

The annual World Pediatric Bone and Joint Day raises awareness of how musculoskeletal disorders affect children’s health. In recent years, such diseases in adolescents have become increasingly common, with the most common among them being osteoporosis, tendinitis, fractures, muscular dystrophy, rheumatoid arthritis, and hip dysplasia.

History

The Specialized Pediatric Group founded the World Pediatric Bone and Joint Day, with the first celebration taking place on October 19, 2012. The day is part of the Bone and Joint Action Week, during which the US Bone and Joint Initiative (USBJI) program is implemented. The goal of USBJI is to prevent musculoskeletal diseases and improve the lives of those already diagnosed. In the US, approximately 19 million children are treated each year for bone and joint problems, with the most common initial symptoms being back and knee pain, leading to missed school time. Causes of these diseases include vitamin D deficiency, injury, poor posture, obesity, and car accidents.

Interesting facts

• In 1903, R. Osgood and K. Schlatter described the same disease, which was then named after them: Osgood-Schlater disease is the most common cause of knee pain in children.
• In the 1970s, the first knee replacement surgery was performed.
• According to a USBJI report, 126 million Americans suffer from musculoskeletal disorders.

How to take part

On the occasion of the holiday, you should talk as much as possible about diseases of the bones and joints and how they can be prevented. It can be especially difficult to talk with children, because due to their age, they may not be able to grasp the gravity of the situation. In children and adolescents, prevention of musculoskeletal diseases can start with your own example: you should engage in physical activity, include fresh vegetables and fruits in the diet, and ensure a sufficient intake of protein and vitamins. Additionally, healthy weight loss and the abandonment of bad habits can help protect the body from disease.

When is World Pediatric Bone and Joint Day celebrated in 2023?

World Pediatric Bone and Joint Day is observed on October 19 each year.

Observations