Rickets: What It Is and How You Can Stop It
If you’ve heard the word “rickets” and aren’t sure what it means, you’re not alone. Rickets is a bone problem that mostly shows up in children whose bodies don’t get enough vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate. Without these nutrients, bones stay soft and can bend or break easily.
Typical signs include bow‑shaped legs, a softer skull, delayed growth, and sometimes muscle weakness. Parents often notice their kids wobbling more than usual or complaining of bone pain when they run or jump. Catching it early makes a big difference because the good news is that rickets is usually reversible with the right steps.
What Causes Rickets?
The main culprit is not enough vitamin D, which helps the gut absorb calcium. Kids can miss out on vitamin D for several reasons: they spend a lot of time indoors, live in places with little sunlight, have darker skin (which blocks more UV), or follow strict vegan diets that lack fortified foods.
Other causes include genetic disorders that affect phosphate metabolism and certain medications that interfere with bone growth. Even a poor diet low in dairy, leafy greens, or fortified cereals can tip the balance toward deficiency.
How to Treat & Prevent Rickets
The first step is a quick doctor visit for blood tests. If labs show low vitamin D or calcium, doctors usually prescribe supplements. A common regimen is 400–600 IU of vitamin D daily for infants and up to 1000 IU for older kids, plus calcium tablets if needed.
Diet matters too. Add milk, cheese, yogurt, fortified plant milks, salmon, egg yolks, and leafy greens like kale or bok choy. For families that avoid dairy, fortified cereals or orange juice can fill the gap.
Sunlight is a free source of vitamin D—just 10–15 minutes of midday sun on arms and legs a few times a week often does the trick. Of course, sunscreen protects skin, so balance exposure with safety.
Physical activity also supports healthy bones. Encourage running, jumping rope, or simple playground games that put gentle stress on growing skeletons—this signals the body to strengthen bone tissue.
If a child has a genetic form of rickets, treatment may involve phosphate supplements and specific medicines prescribed by a pediatric endocrinologist. Regular follow‑ups ensure growth stays on track and bones heal properly.
Bottom line: rickets is preventable and treatable. Keep an eye on your kid’s diet, get them outside for safe sun, and don’t wait to see a doctor if you notice any odd bone shape or delayed milestones. A few simple changes can keep their skeletons strong and ready for all the adventures ahead.
