What is Rickets?

Rickets is the softening and weakening of bones in children, usually due to an extreme and prolonged Vitamin D Deficiency.

Why is it coming back?

We are seeing a resurgence due to lack of sunlight (indoor lifestyles/sunscreen) and diets low in fortified dairy.

Signs:

• Bowed Legs: The legs curve outward because the soft bones bend under the child's weight.
• Delayed Growth: Short stature.
• Wide Wrists/Ankles: The ends of the bones flare out.
• Pain: Bone pain or muscle weakness.

Treatment:

• Nutritional Rickets: High dose Vitamin D and Calcium supplements usually cure the condition and straighten the bones over time.
• Genetic Rickets (XLH): Some rare forms are caused by phosphorus wasting in the kidneys and require specialized medication (Burosumab).