Rickets
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Rickets (also called osteomalacia) is a rare bone disease that occurs in children, where their bones become soft and weak, and therefore more susceptible to breaking and warping.
Hereditary rickets is inherited at birth, while nutritional rickets is caused by a vitamin D deficiency (may be from an improper diet or lack of sunlight). Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium and phosphorus, which are two important factors for healthy bones.
A lack of vitamin D is the most commonly seen cause of rickets.
Symptoms
Some symptoms of rickets include bowed legs, bone pain, muscle weakness, seizures, spinal deformities, and delayed growth or development.
Treatment
Most cases of rickets can be cured through vitamin D and calcium supplements that strengthen the bones. Some ways to gain more vitamin D include taking in sunlight and eating more foods that are rich in vitamin D.
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