Rickets: What It Is and How It's Treated

Rickets is a bone problem that usually occurs in children. Rickets can make your child's bones hurt. The bones soften and can break easily.

Most cases of rickets are caused by a lack of vitamin D, but rickets can also be inherited. Vitamin D helps the bones absorb calcium and phosphorus from food. When your child does not get enough vitamin D, his or her bones do not get those necessary nutrients that makes bones strong.

Children ages 6-24 months are at the highest risk of rickets because their bones are growing very rapidly during this period. Your child may also be at risk if he or she:

The image below shows what some of the symptoms of rickets look like.

Your doctor will ask about your family health history and your child's health and diet. Your child will need a full physical exam. Blood tests and x-rays of the arms or legs can also help your doctor determine if your child has rickets.

Treatment depends on the type of rickets your child has. Nutritional rickets is treated with vitamin D and calcium, and often improvements occur within a few weeks of treatment. If your child has inherited rickets or has an illness causing the problem, you may need to see a doctor who specializes in rickets.

Be sure your child gets enough vitamin D and calcium. If you breastfeed your baby, your doctor will prescribe a vitamin supplement that includes vitamin D (because human milk only has a small amount of vitamin D). If your baby gets less than 16 ounces of formula per day, he or she will need extra vitamin D.

Your doctor can also help you determine if your older child needs more vitamin D or calcium. Your doctor will also tell you about how much time in the sun is safe for your child. However, it is important to remember that infants and babies should be protected from direct sunlight. To make sure your child is getting enough vitamin D, you should make sure your older child eats foods that are high in calcium, such as milk, cheese, and salad greens.