Handybar:

Osteomalacia and rickets is caused by insufficient levels of vitamin D in the body. They are really the same shape up; rickets is the name used when it occurs in children whereas osteomalacia is the term used for adults.

People who get modest exposure to sunlight are most at risk of vitamin D deficiency in the UK. Immigrants from Asia, particularly women and children, are at risk, as are elderly people who are housebound or confined to residential and nursing homes.

The symptoms of Osteomalacia are widespread bone pains and sometimes muscle weakness. Breaks can occur. The symptoms of Rickets are aches and pains, and sometimes visible enlargement of bones at joints, such as the wrists.

The treatments available are regular daily supplements of vitamin D and calcium, eg Calcichew D3 or Adcal D3, are usually used for people with simple vitamin D deficiency, but some people have a single injection vitamin D, in the form of calciferol (vitamin D2). This is stored in the body and can last up to a year before another injection may be needed.

People with vitamin D deficiency due to intestinal problems are best treated with calciferol. Most people with osteomalacia find their pain is reduced about two weeks after the injection. Extra calcium may also be needed while bone is healing.

The excellent news is – a vitamin D deficiency is much less of an issue then Arthritis!