Rickets in Children: Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Treatment

 Rickets is a childhood skeletal disorder that leads to weak, soft, and deformed bones. It primarily results from a deficiency of essential nutrients, especially vitamin D, calcium, and phosphate, all of which are vital for healthy bone development. If left untreated, rickets can lead to growth problems and long-term deformities.



Dr. Roshan Kumar Jaiswal, a leading Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon in Secunderabad at KIMS Hospital, emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and timely treatment to prevent serious complications. His expert care ensures your child receives the right evaluation and treatment to restore optimal bone health.


What Causes Rickets?

The primary cause of rickets in children is a vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in helping the body absorb calcium and phosphate, which are essential minerals for strong and healthy bones.

There are three main sources of vitamin D:

  • Sunlight exposure

  • Vitamin D-rich foods

  • Dietary supplements

When a child doesn’t get enough vitamin D, the absorption of calcium from the intestines is compromised. This leads to low calcium and phosphate levels, impairing bone mineralization and leading to soft, weakened bones.

Risk Factors for Vitamin D Deficiency

Several factors can contribute to inadequate vitamin D levels:

  • Limited sunlight exposure: Common in colder climates or among children who spend most of their time indoors.

  • Skin coverage for cultural or religious reasons: Prevents adequate sun-induced vitamin D synthesis.

  • Poor dietary intake: A lack of vitamin D-rich foods such as fortified milk, egg yolks, and fatty fish.

  • Genetic disorders: Rare conditions like X-linked hypophosphatemic rickets interfere with phosphate metabolism, causing the kidneys to waste phosphate and impairing bone development.

These factors may increase the risk of developing rickets, particularly in growing children who require higher amounts of calcium and vitamin D for bone growth.


Signs and Symptoms of Rickets in Children

Children suffering from rickets may exhibit several visible symptoms that affect both bone structure and overall health. Common signs include:

  • Delayed growth and development

  • Bone pain and tenderness, especially in the arms, legs, and spine

  • Muscle weakness

  • Skeletal deformities, such as:

    • Bow legs (genu varum)

    • Knock knees (genu valgum)

    • Curved spine or pigeon chest

  • Swelling at the wrists, ankles, and rib cage

  • Frequent fractures

  • Dental issues, such as delayed tooth eruption and enamel defects

If left untreated, these issues can significantly affect a child’s posture, walking ability, and overall quality of life.


Diagnosis: How Is Rickets Identified?

According to Dr. Roshan Kumar Jaiswal, early diagnosis is essential for the successful treatment of rickets. Evaluation includes:

  • A thorough medical history and physical examination to assess visible deformities and signs.

  • Blood tests to measure vitamin D, calcium, and phosphate levels.

  • X-rays of the limbs and spine to detect characteristic bone changes and assess bone mineralization.

In complex cases, further investigations may include:

  • Kidney function tests

  • Bone density scans

  • Genetic testing, if hereditary forms of rickets are suspected

Early identification ensures that children get the right treatment before deformities become severe or permanent.


Treatment Options for Rickets

The treatment for rickets focuses on restoring normal levels of vitamin D, calcium, and phosphate. Treatment strategies include:

1. Nutritional Correction

  • Introducing vitamin D-rich foods like milk, eggs, and oily fish into the child’s diet.

  • Sunlight exposure for at least 15–30 minutes a day helps the body naturally produce vitamin D.

  • In some cases, fortified dairy and cereals are recommended.

2. Supplementation

  • Oral vitamin D supplements and calcium tablets are prescribed for children with moderate to severe deficiencies.

  • In genetic or resistant cases, phosphate supplements may also be necessary to ensure proper bone mineralization.

3. Orthopedic Intervention

In children who develop severe skeletal deformities due to untreated or chronic rickets, surgical correction may be advised.

Dr. Roshan Kumar Jaiswal may recommend procedures to:

  • Correct bone alignment

  • Improve walking pattern and functionality

  • Prevent long-term joint damage or complications

Surgical treatments may include guided growth surgery, where a small plate is temporarily placed on the growing part of the bone to guide its alignment over time.


When Should Parents Consult a Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon?

If your child shows any signs of:

  • Bow legs or knock knees after the age of 2–3 years

  • Delayed motor milestones (walking or crawling)

  • Bone pain or muscle weakness

  • Frequent bone fractures or poor growth

It is essential to consult a pediatric orthopedic specialist in Secunderabad immediately. Timely intervention can correct the condition and promote normal bone growth and strength.


👨‍⚕️ Expert Pediatric Bone Care in Secunderabad

If you suspect your child may have symptoms of rickets, trust Dr. Roshan Kumar Jaiswal for expert diagnosis and treatment. With years of experience in managing pediatric orthopedic conditions, he is committed to ensuring healthy bone development in growing children.

📍 Book an Appointment Today
 Dr. Roshan Kumar Jaiswal
 Consultant Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon, KIMS Hospital, Secunderabad

📞 Call: 9542904584
 🌐 Visit: www.drroshanchildortho.com

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