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Vitamin D is very important for bone healing.  Vitamin D is obtained through sun exposure, diet (milk, dairy products, salmon, fortified cereals), and supplements.  In general, I recommend taking vitamin D and calcium supplementation– specifically vitamin D3 1000-2000 IU/day (certain patients may require 5000 IU/day) and 1000 mg of calcium per day.  Calcium Citrate (Citracol) is the form of Calcium that is best absorbed by the body. Both vitamin D and Calcium can be purchased over-the-counter.

Occasionally, in the setting of osteopenia or slowly healing fractures, we may need to check your vitamin D levels.  The goal level is greater than 20 ng/mL for bone healing.  It is okay to take cumulative dosing (once a week or once a month).