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Rickets
Moderate
Rickets is a disorder of growing bones in children caused by inadequate mineralization of developing bone. Vitamin D deficiency is a common cause, although inadequate calcium or phosphate and disorders affecting their absorption or metabolism can also contribute. Rickets may cause bone pain, weakness, growth problems, and skeletal deformities.
Body System
Bones & Joints
When to Seek Medical Attention
Rickets requires medical evaluation because impaired bone mineralization can affect growth and skeletal strength. Seek prompt care for significant bone pain, weakness, difficulty walking, deformity, or worsening symptoms. Urgent evaluation is appropriate for severe pain, suspected fracture, seizures, or other significant complications.
Symptoms
3
Causes
1
Treatments
5
Diet
3
Overview
Rickets is a disorder of growing bones in children caused by inadequate mineralization of developing bone. Vitamin D deficiency is a common cause, although inadequate calcium or phosphate and disorders affecting their absorption or metabolism can also contribute. Rickets may cause bone pain, weakness, growth problems, and skeletal deformities.
Symptoms 3
Muscle Cramps
Muscle Pain
Unexplained Weight Loss
Causes 1
Rickets can result from insufficient vitamin D, which is needed for normal absorption and use of calcium and phosphate. Inadequate dietary calcium or phosphate can also contribute. Other causes include intestinal malabsorption, kidney disorders, certain medicines, and inherited conditions that interfere with vitamin D metabolism or phosphate regulation.
Poor Diet
Risk Factors
Risk factors include inadequate dietary vitamin D or calcium, limited sunlight exposure, poor nutrition, malabsorption disorders, darker skin pigmentation in settings with limited vitamin D availability, certain medicines, and medical conditions affecting the liver, kidneys, or mineral metabolism. Infants and children with inadequate nutrition are particularly vulnerable.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Diagnosis is based on clinical findings together with laboratory and imaging studies. Blood tests may measure vitamin D, calcium, phosphate, alkaline phosphatase, and other markers of mineral metabolism. X-rays can show characteristic changes in affected bones. Additional testing may be needed when an inherited disorder, kidney problem, malabsorption condition, or another underlying cause is suspected.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Adequate vitamin D, calcium, and overall nutrition during childhood help support normal bone mineralization
Children should receive appropriate nutrition and vitamin D according to age and medical guidance
Children at increased risk because of malabsorption, limited dietary intake, or other medical conditions may need supplementation and monitoring under the supervision of a healthcare professional
Prevention Guidance
Adequate vitamin D, calcium, and overall nutrition during childhood help support normal bone mineralization. Children should receive appropriate nutrition and vitamin D according to age and medical guidance. Children at increased risk because of malabsorption, limited dietary intake, or other medical conditions may need supplementation and monitoring under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 3
Recommended Foods
Milk
Rich in calcium
Eggs
Provide vitamin D
Fortified Foods
Support growth
Foods to Avoid
Junk Food
Poor nutritional value
Sugary Drinks
Limit intake
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
A childhood disease causing soft and weak bones.
Vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate deficiency.
Bone deformities and delayed growth.
Yes, sunlight helps vitamin D production.
Yes, nutritional correction often helps.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.