Vitamin D Levels Do Not Predict Risk of Metatarsal Fractures
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: In the literature, there is conflicting data regarding the relationship between vitamin D and fractures. Reports on the effects of vitamin D levels on pathologies of the foot and ankle are limited. The purpose of this study is to assess the prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency in patients who have sustained low-energy metatarsal fractures compared to foot or ankle sprains without osseous involvement.
METHODS: Between May 2012 and August 2014, vitamin D levels and demographic data were collected prospectively in a total of 99 patients; 71 with metatarsal fractures and 28 with sprains, both from a low-energy mechanism of injury. Data between the metatarsal fracture group and sprain group were compared through univariate and multivariate analyses.
RESULTS: Mean vitamin D in the fracture group was 26.9 ng/mL (range = 78.0-4.3), and in the sprain group it was 27.1 ng/mL (range = 64.1-8.3; P = .93). Vitamin D insufficiency (<30 ng/mL) was present in 47 (66%) of fracture patients and 20 (71%) of sprain patients ( P = .81).
CONCLUSION: A high incidence of hypovitaminosis D was seen in all foot and ankle patients. There was no difference in mean vitamin D level or incidence of vitamin D insufficiency between patients with metatarsal fractures or sprains resulting from similar low-energy mechanisms.
LEVELS OF EVIDENCE: Level III: Prospective, case-control study.
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a case-control, done in people. Its evidence level is 4 of 5 (Low · observational). Observational designs can show an association but not prove cause. Reported size: 99 participants or records.
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