What are the chief differences between rickets and osteomalacia?

Rickets and osteomalacia are both conditions that affect bone health, but they occur at different times in life and have different causes.

Rickets is a condition that occurs in children when their bodies do not get enough vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate. This can lead to weak and deformed bones. Rickets is most common in infants and young children, but it can also occur in older children and adults.

Osteomalacia is a condition that occurs in adults when their bodies do not get enough vitamin D or calcium. This can lead to weak and brittle bones. Osteomalacia is most common in postmenopausal women and in people with certain medical conditions, such as celiac disease or Crohn's disease.

Here are the chief differences between rickets and osteomalacia:

Age: Rickets occurs in children, while osteomalacia occurs in adults.

Cause: Rickets is caused by a deficiency of vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate, while osteomalacia is caused by a deficiency of vitamin D or calcium.

Symptoms: Rickets can cause bone pain, muscle weakness, and deformities of the legs and arms. Osteomalacia can cause bone pain, muscle weakness, and an increased risk of fractures.

Treatment: Rickets and osteomalacia are both treated with supplements of vitamin D and calcium. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct deformities caused by rickets.

By understanding the differences between rickets and osteomalacia, you can help ensure that you and your child get the necessary nutrients to maintain healthy bones.