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FACTS:

•  Rickets is a bone disorder caused by a lack of enough calcium and Vitamin D. This disease can be prevented by use of a good formula containing adequate amounts of Calcium and vitamin D.
  
• Physical signs are bow legs, pigeon chest, delayed teething, and abnormal fractures. Children with rickets have bones that are soft and weak.
  
• If not corrected while the child is growing, skeletal deformities and short stature may be permanent.
  
• The physical signs of Rickets can also be signs of other bone diseases, or diseases of the kidneys. Children with suspected rickets should be seen by a doctor to determine if these other possible conditions are present.

TREATMENT:

•  Foods high in calcium should be offered to children with rickets.  Calcuim is found in milk, dark green vegetables, tofu, sesame seeds, cheese and yogurts.  
  
• Make sure all infant formula contains vitamin D. Milk and yogurt for older children should be enriched with vitamin D.
  
• Sunlight is a source of vitamin D for the body; children should be outside daily with skin exposed to the sunlight to obtain Vitamin D. Sunbaths may help.
  
• If corrected while a child is young and still growing, any skeletal deformities usually disappear over time.
  
• Severe cases of Rickets can cause scoliosis and may require surgery.