Growing pains (GP) is a wellrecognized entity in children aged 3-12 years. Its diagnosis is based on Peterson criteria. The exact aetiology of GP is not known; however, some studies have linked GP and vitamin-D deficiency. Objective: To find out the association between occurrence of GP and vitamin-D deficiency (VDD) in Indian children aged 3-12 years. Method: Children presenting with GP, fulfilling Peterson criteria, were enrolled in the study group, along with an equal number of age and sex

more »

... ched healthy controls. Analysis of serum calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase and serum 25-hydroxy-vitamin-D [25(OH)D] levels were done. The results of cases and controls were compared; those children found to have VDD were supplemented with Vitamin-D and response in pain was noted after one month. Results: Forty five children each were enrolled in the GP and control group. Prevalence of VDD in GP group was (41/45) 91.1% and in control group (26/45) 57.8% [p-value 0.001, RR=7.490; 95%, CI=2.290-24.496]. The mean value of serum calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase in GP group were 9.50 mg%, 5.15 mg%, 271 IU/L; while in the control group they were 8.84 mg%, 4.72 mg%, 216.2 IU/L respectively. At one month follow-up of GP group, (31/45) 68.9% became asymptomatic while remaining 14 children showed improvement in symptoms. Conclusions: Children, 3-12 years old, presenting with GP are more likely to have VDD compared to children without GP.