What Causes Rickets?
1. Vitamin D Deficiency: Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium from food. Without enough vitamin D, calcium cannot be properly absorbed, leading to soft bones.
Causes of vitamin D deficiency include:
- Limited sunlight exposure
- Darker skin pigmentation
- Exclusive breastfeeding without supplementation
- Poor dietary intake
2. Calcium Deficiency: Even if vitamin D is normal, low calcium intake can weaken bones.
3. Phosphorus Deficiency: Phosphorus works along with calcium for bone formation. Low phosphate levels may cause rickets.
4. Genetic Disorders: Certain rare inherited conditions can cause vitamin D–resistant rickets.
5. Medical Conditions: Kidney disorders, liver disease, celiac disease, or malabsorption problems can interfere with vitamin D metabolism.
Symptoms of Rickets
Rickets develops gradually. Early symptoms may be subtle but become noticeable over time.
Common Signs Include:
- Bowed legs (O-shaped legs)
- Knock knees
- Thickened wrists and ankles
- Delayed growth and short stature
- Bone pain (especially legs, spine, pelvis)
- Delayed walking
- Muscle weakness
- Soft skull bones in infants
- Frequent fractures
If untreated, rickets can lead to permanent bone deformities and growth disturbances.
How is Rickets Diagnosed?
Early diagnosis prevents complications. Evaluation typically includes:
- Detailed physical examination
- Blood tests (Vitamin D, calcium, phosphate levels)
- X-rays of wrist or knee
- Growth assessment
Proper pediatric orthopedic evaluation ensures accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
Treatment of Rickets
The treatment depends on the underlying cause.
1. Vitamin D Supplementation: High-dose vitamin D therapy is prescribed under medical supervision.
2. Calcium Supplements: If calcium levels are low, supplements are recommended.
3. Nutritional Guidance: Diet rich in:
- Milk and dairy products
- Eggs
- Fortified cereals
- Green leafy vegetables
4. Sunlight Exposure: Safe sunlight exposure for 15–30 minutes daily helps natural vitamin D production.
5. Monitoring & Follow-Up: Regular follow-up is important to monitor improvement in bone healing and growth.
6. Orthopedic Management: In severe deformities:
- Braces may be required
- Corrective surgery may be advised in rare advanced cases
Most children recover completely if treated early.
Why Choose Little Bones Pediatric Orthopedic Clinic for Rickets Treatment?
When it comes to children’s bone disorders, specialized care is extremely important. Little Bones Pediatric Orthopedic Clinic in Indore is dedicated exclusively to pediatric orthopedic care.
Specialized Pediatric Orthopedic Care: Children are not small adults. Their bones are growing and require expert evaluation. The clinic focuses only on child bone and joint conditions.
Experienced Pediatric Orthopedic Specialist in Indore: The clinic is led by Dr. Pushpvardhan Mandlecha, who has extensive experience in treating pediatric bone deformities including rickets, bow legs, knock knees, and growth-related disorders.
Comprehensive Diagnosis:
- Advanced clinical assessment
- Growth monitoring
- Detailed deformity analysis
- Personalized treatment planning
Non-Surgical First Approach: Most cases of rickets can be treated medically. The clinic emphasizes early detection and non-surgical correction whenever possible.
Child-Friendly Environment: The clinic provides a comfortable and supportive environment designed specifically for children, reducing fear and anxiety.
Long-Term Growth Monitoring: Since rickets affects growing bones, long-term follow-up is essential. The clinic ensures continuous monitoring until proper correction and normal growth are achieved.
Trusted by Parents: Many families in Indore trust the clinic for managing pediatric bone conditions safely and effectively.
When Should You Consult a Specialist?
You should seek medical advice if your child:
- Has bowed legs after 2 years of age
- Shows delayed walking
- Complains of bone pain
- Has slow growth compared to peers
- Has thick wrists or ankle swelling
Early consultation prevents permanent deformity.
Prevention of Rickets
Prevention is always better than treatment.
Tips to Prevent Rickets:
- Ensure adequate sunlight exposure
- Provide vitamin D supplementation as advised
- Include calcium-rich foods in diet
- Regular pediatric check-ups
- Monitor growth milestones
Rickets is a preventable and treatable condition if identified early. The key lies in awareness, timely diagnosis, and proper pediatric orthopedic care. Ignoring early signs can result in long-term deformities and growth problems. With correct supplementation, nutrition, and specialist supervision, most children recover fully and lead a healthy, active life.
If you notice any symptoms of rickets in your child, do not delay evaluation.
📞 Book Your Consultation Today
For expert pediatric orthopedic care in Indore, contact:
📲 +91-7827028020
📲 +91-9654588255
Early treatment ensures healthy bones and a brighter future for your child.
