In Samantha's case, she developed hip problems at the age of six and spent months in a cast and wheelchairs after developing complications related to her weight.  

For Jalal Awad, an 18-year old college student, a problem with his left leg was limiting his ability to walk and attend classes. He was referred to pediatric orthopaedic specialists Dr. Alice Chu and Dr. David Godfried at the NYU Hospital for Joint Diseases Center for Children.

Jalal also has Blount's disease and underwent gastric banding to tackle his weight issues (he weighed 420 pounds).  Today, he can walk distances without knee pain. "Jalal's case is an example of how childhood obesity can lead to a serious orthopaedic condition," says Dr. Chu.

National Action Week is observed by the U.S. Bone and Joint Decade, which aims to raise awareness of musculoskeletal health, stimulate research and improve quality of life.

SOURCE United States Bone and Joint Decade