The Impact of Vitamin D Supplementation on Bone Healing Post-Fracture: An Observational Study

Abstract

The interplay between nutrition and bone health is well-documented, emphasizing the crucial role of various nutrients, particularly Vitamin D, in maintaining and repairing skeletal integrity. This observational study investigates the specific effects of Vitamin D supplementation on bone healing, pain management, functional recovery, and the incidence of complications following fractures. Conducted from August 2023 to March 2024 at the Government Medical College XYZ, the study enrolled 100 participants with clinically and radiographically confirmed fractures. Participants were divided into two groups: the Vitamin D group, receiving 800 IU of Vitamin D3 daily, and the Control group, receiving no supplementation. Both groups received standard fracture care. The results indicate that Vitamin D supplementation significantly improves bone healing outcomes. In the Vitamin D group, 94% achieved complete radiographic union compared to 76% in the Control group, and the average time to healing was shorter (8.1 weeks versus 11.3 weeks). Pain management also improved, with the Vitamin D group reporting lower pain levels at 3 months (2.1 versus 3.9) and 6 months (0.9 versus 2.5) compared to the Control group. Functional recovery, measured by the Return to Daily Activities Scale, was better in the Vitamin D group, with 78% returning to daily activities at 3 months and 90% at 6 months, compared to 56% and 68% in the Control group, respectively. Furthermore, the incidence of complications such as nonunion and delayed union was lower in the Vitamin D group (6% and 10%) compared to the Control group (18% and 28%). Vitamin D serum levels significantly increased in the Vitamin D group (from 21 ng/mL to 33 ng/mL) while remaining unchanged in the Control group. These findings highlight the therapeutic potential of Vitamin D supplementation in enhancing the bone healing process, reducing pain, improving functional recovery, and lowering complication rates post-fracture. Medical professionals should consider evaluating and incorporating Vitamin D supplementation as an integral component of comprehensive fracture care.