Editorial Commentary: Is Vitamin D the New Wheaties? Preventing Muscle Fatigue Could Keep Athletes in the Game.

Abstract

Vitamin D deficiency is an oft overlooked and underevaluated condition that is widespread in patient-athletes, including the elite and professional. Although the symptomatology of this deficiency is well known in the general population (osteoporosis and increased risk of fracture), the symptom of muscle fatigue is not. It is only recently that the association between vitamin D deficiency and muscle fatigue in professional athletes has been placed in the spotlight. However, vitamin D deficiency should be of increasing concern for orthopaedists in regard to all athletes. In the elite collegiate/professional ranks, this condition may lead to detrimental injuries with career-altering effects. Although this condition may not affect career and financial well-being for most patients, modifications in athletic performance and lifestyle are still of utmost value to any athlete. Although I do not condone ordering vitamin D levels as a screening tool, nor broadly prescribing supplements to all patient-athletes, I do believe that it is warranted if certain "high-risk" criteria are met.