Overview
Vitamin D deficiency is common in Pakistan. Rickets can cause bone deformities in children, while osteomalacia causes bone pain and weakness in adults. Both are treatable and preventable.
Symptoms
- Bone pain and tenderness
- Muscle weakness
- Bowed legs or knock knees in children
- Delayed growth and walking in children
- Fractures after minor injuries
Causes and risk factors
Causes include little sun exposure, a diet low in vitamin D and calcium, darker skin, covering clothing, malabsorption, kidney or liver disease and some medicines.
Diagnosis
Blood tests measure vitamin D, calcium, phosphate and alkaline phosphatase. X-rays may show typical changes.
Treatment
Treatment includes vitamin D and calcium supplements. Rarely, surgery may correct severe deformities in children.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for bone pain, muscle weakness or if your child has bowed legs or delayed walking.
This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.
