Rickets and Osteomalacia

Rickets and Osteomalacia are caused due to inadequate mineralisation
of the bones. Our skeletal system stores 98% of the calcium in the human
body and hence calcium metabolism has a major influence on the structure
and growth of bone.

Rickets

In this case, mineralization of bones is defective. The rickets caused
by nutritional deficiency is called Nutritional rickets . In India, it is a
common problem among the population below the poverty line. It is due to Vitamin D deficiency. It occurs in children below four years. But it can
afflict all age groups who have calcium and D deficiency. Vitamin D is
associated with calcium absorption and deposition.

Lack of calcium and vitamin D causes softening of bones and pliable deformity. In children the symptoms of rickets are bowed legs, knock knees, pigeon chest,
broadening of wrist and ankles, protruberant abdomen, etc.,
The primary prevention of the Rickets, in the child begins by better
nutrient of the pregnant mother, followed by supply of Vitamin D. Cod and
shark liver oil are very good sources of Vitamin D.

Osteomalacia

In adults Vitamin D and Calcium deficiency leads to
osteomalacia. This is characterized by bone pain and tenderness. It causes
brittleness in the bones.

Orthopedics

Orthopedics deals with all bone deformities occurring in children as
well as adults. The deformities may either be congenital or acquired. The
former is caused by developmental abnormalities (teratogenic), the latter is
caused by trauma or infections or by metabolic disorders. The corrective
measures in the management of these disorders involve physiotherapy, splinting
and use of appliances, traction procedure, plaster cast and wedging,
manipulation under anaesthesia, surgical and neurological examination.

Rickets and Osteomalacia

Rickets

Osteomalacia

Orthopedics

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