To systematically evaluate the risk factors associated with growth pain disorder (GP) in children, providing an evidence-based reference for clinical diagnosis and intervention.
Key Findings:
A total of 37 studies involving 16,086 participants were included.
Children with GP had lower serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations and lower bone density compared to healthy children.
Hypermobility and physical activity are correlated with GP occurrence.
Children with GP have lower pain thresholds and more pain points.
Limited evidence exists regarding the effects of perinatal factors, breastfeeding, and picky eating on GP.
No evidence supports a connection between GP and bed-sharing, vascular perfusion patterns, fatty acid status, or rapid growth.
Interpretation:
GP in children is influenced by multiple factors, including vitamin D levels, bone density, and psychosocial aspects; further high-quality studies are needed to clarify these associations.
Limitations:
Heterogeneity and sample size of included studies may affect the reliability of results, particularly due to variations in study design and population.
Limited evidence on certain potential risk factors requires further investigation.
Conclusion:
The study provides valuable insights for the clinical diagnosis and treatment of GP, emphasizing the need for more robust prospective studies to enhance understanding of its risk factors.
