Bones Drops: Softening of bones (brittle bones) both in children (due to Rickets) and elderly (due to Osteoporosis) potentially lead to fractures and deformities. Osteomalacia, which is the medical term for "soft bones," is a disorder characterized by weak and brittle bones. It generally happens because of a lack of vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate, which are necessary for preserving ideal bone health. The causes and signs of soft bones are listed below:
Causes:
- Soft bones can result from a vitamin D deficit, which can be caused by inadequate sun exposure, a lack of vitamin D-rich foods, or a problem with vitamin D absorption.
- Calcium deficiency: Osteomalacia can develop as a result of inadequate calcium intake or poor dietary calcium absorption.
- Inadequate phosphate intake or poor phosphate absorption can also result in soft bones due to a phosphate shortage.
- Disorders of malabsorption: Diseases including celiac disease, Crohn's disease, and gastric bypass surgery can prevent the body from absorbing nutrients like vitamin D, calcium, and phosphate.
Symptoms:
- Bone pain: A common sign of soft bones is dull, painful bone pain, frequently in the hips, lower back, legs, or ribs.
- Weakness in the muscles: Inadequate mineralization of the bones can lead to weak muscles, particularly in the proximal muscles (closer to the trunk).
- Bone fractures: Even with minor stress, bones are more prone to breaking due to their weakened and fragile structure.
- Walking trouble: Soft bones can cause walking difficulty and a waddling stride.
- Skeletal deformities: In extreme circumstances, soft bones can result in skeletal malformations including bowed legs or a curved spine.
