Understanding Rickets: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment with Dr. Roshan Kumar Jaiswal

 Rickets is a preventable bone disorder that affects children, causing soft and weakened bones due to a prolonged deficiency of vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate. While it is more common in developing regions, cases of rickets continue to be reported worldwide, including in India. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can prevent severe complications and ensure healthy bone development. Dr. Roshan Kumar Jaiswal, a leading pediatric orthopedic specialist and surgeon in Secunderabad, has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating rickets effectively. In this blog, we explore what rickets is, its causes, symptoms, and the available treatment options.

Rickets is a pediatric bone disorder characterized by softening and weakening of bones due to insufficient levels of vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate. It primarily affects children between the ages of 6 months and 3 years, a period of rapid bone growth. Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption in the bones, and a deficiency can lead to improper bone mineralization, resulting in deformities.

Rickets can cause a range of symptoms that may vary in severity depending on the degree of deficiency. Common symptoms include delayed growth, bone pain or tenderness, bowlegs or knock-knees, thickening of the wrists and ankles, and muscle weakness. Severe cases can lead to skeletal deformities, dental issues, and an increased risk of fractures. Identifying these symptoms early and consulting a pediatric orthopedic specialist like Dr. Roshan Kumar Jaiswal is crucial for effective treatment.

There are different types of rickets, each with distinct causes:

1. Nutritional Rickets: Caused by a deficiency of vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate due to inadequate dietary intake or limited sun exposure.

2. Vitamin D-Resistant Rickets: A rare genetic disorder that affects the kidneys' ability to retain phosphate.

3. Hypophosphatemic Rickets: Caused by an inability to properly process phosphate, leading to low phosphate levels in the blood.

4. Renal Rickets: Associated with chronic kidney diseases that impair vitamin D metabolism.

Understanding the type of rickets is essential for formulating an effective treatment plan, a process that Dr. Jaiswal excels in with his personalized approach to pediatric orthopedics.

Rickets is most commonly caused by a deficiency of vitamin D, which can result from inadequate sun exposure, a lack of dietary intake of vitamin D-rich foods like fish, eggs, and fortified dairy products, or conditions that affect vitamin D absorption, such as celiac disease. Breastfed infants whose mothers have low vitamin D levels are also at increased risk. Genetic factors and chronic kidney diseases can also contribute to the development of rickets.

Dr. Roshan Kumar Jaiswal emphasizes that early diagnosis is the key to preventing irreversible bone damage and deformities. The diagnostic process involves a thorough clinical examination, blood tests to assess calcium, phosphate, and vitamin D levels, and X-rays to detect bone abnormalities and deformities. Dr. Jaiswal’s comprehensive approach ensures accurate diagnosis and the formulation of an effective treatment plan.

The treatment for rickets focuses on correcting the deficiency and managing symptoms to promote healthy bone growth.

1. Nutritional Supplementation:

• Oral vitamin D and calcium supplements to restore adequate levels.

• Dietary modifications to include foods rich in vitamin D and calcium.

2. Sunlight Exposure:

• Encouraging safe sun exposure for natural vitamin D synthesis.

• Advising parents on optimal times for sun exposure to minimize the risk of sunburn.

3. Medications for Resistant Types:

• Phosphate supplements and active forms of vitamin D for genetic types of rickets.

4. Surgical Intervention:

• In severe cases, corrective surgery may be required to address bone deformities.

• Dr. Jaiswal’s expertise in minimally invasive surgical techniques ensures optimal outcomes with reduced recovery time.

Physical therapy is also a crucial aspect of recovery, focusing on strengthening muscles and improving mobility. Customized exercises can help correct posture and alleviate bone pain. Dr. Jaiswal’s approach includes regular follow-up visits to monitor progress, adjust treatment plans, and provide continued support to both the child and parents.

Preventing rickets is possible with adequate vitamin D intake through diet and safe sun exposure. Ensuring that children consume foods like fortified milk, eggs, and fish can help maintain healthy vitamin D levels. In some cases, preventive vitamin D supplements may be recommended, especially for breastfed infants or children at higher risk.

A diagnosis of rickets can be overwhelming for parents. Dr. Roshan Kumar Jaiswal believes in a holistic approach that includes educating parents about the condition, its treatment, and preventive measures. By providing clear information and compassionate care, Dr. Jaiswal empowers parents to take proactive steps toward their child’s bone health.

Rickets is a preventable and treatable condition that should not limit a child’s potential for a healthy and active life. With the right expertise and timely intervention, children with rickets can recover fully and achieve normal bone development. Dr. Roshan Kumar Jaiswal’s dedication to pediatric orthopedic care ensures that children in Secunderabad receive the highest quality treatment for rickets. If your child is showing symptoms of rickets, consult Dr. Jaiswal promptly to begin the journey toward healthy bones and a brighter future.