What is osteomalacia?
Osteomalacia refers to a marked softening of your bones, most often caused by severe vitamin D deficiency.
Osteomalacia in older adults can lead to fractures.
Treatment for osteomalacia involves providing enough vitamin D and calcium, both required to harden and strengthen bones, and treating disorders that might cause the condition.
Symptoms
When osteomalacia is in its early stages, you might not have symptoms, although signs of osteomalacia might show on an X-ray or other diagnostic tests.
As osteomalacia progresses, you might develop bone pain and muscle weakness.
The dull, aching pain associated with osteomalacia most commonly affects the lower back, pelvis, hips, legs and ribs. The pain might be worse at night.
Causes
Osteomalacia problems can be caused by:
- Vitamin D deficiency.
- Certain surgeries.
- Celiac disease.
- Kidney or liver disorders.
- Drugs.
The risk of developing osteomalacia is highest in people who don't get enough dietary vitamin D and have little sun exposure.
Source:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/osteomalacia/symptoms-causes/syc-20355514
