Rickets is a childhood disorder caused by a vitamin D deficiency, either from inadequate intake or inadequate exposure to the sun. The reduced vitamin D levels impact on the body’s ability to absorb calcium and phosphorus from the diet. In adults, a vitamin D deficiency that impairs the ability of the body to regulate calcium and phosphorus is known as osteomalacia.
Risk factors for osteomalacia: nursing mothers, pregnant women, inadequate sun exposure, diets that are very low in fat and chronic renal failure.
Symptoms: painful muscle spasms, leg cramps, nervousness, numbness in the extremities, bone malformations (bowed legs, knock knees), decaying teeth, delayed walking, restlessness, irritability and profuse sweating.
Who to consult: Dietician, endocrinologist, GP, herbalist, homoeopath, naturopath, occupational therapist, physiotherapist.
