Rickets is the softening and weakening of bones in children.
It is usually because of an extreme and prolonged vitamin D deficiency. Rare inherited problems also can cause rickets.
Adding vitamin D or calcium to the diet generally corrects the bone problems associated with rickets.
When rickets is due to another underlying medical problem, your child may need additional medications or other treatment.
Some skeletal deformities caused by rickets may require corrective surgery.
Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of rickets can include:
- Delayed growth
- Delayed motor skills
- Pain in the spine, pelvis and legs
- Muscle weakness
Rickets can cause skeletal deformities such as:
- Bowed legs or knock knees
- Thickened wrists and ankles
- Breastbone projection
When to see a doctor
Talk to your doctor if your child develops bone pain, muscle weakness or obvious skeletal deformities.
Causes
Vitamin D deficiency contributes to the development of rickets; This vitamin is absorbed by the body with products rich in sunlight and vitamin D.
Some children are born or develop small illnesses (celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, cystic fibrosis, kidney problems) that interfere with the absorption of vitamin D in the body.
Here are some reasons why rickets can develop:
- Vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy;
- Living in a geographical area where there is less sunlight;
- Premature birth;
- Some types of medication and others.
Source:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/rickets/symptoms-causes/syc-20351943
