A health condition in which the bones become weakened is called osteomalacia. It often occurs due to vitamin D deficiency. While the most common symptom is bone pain, it may also cause muscle weakness and stiffness. Commonly, doctors treat this condition with vitamin D supplements.
Normally, the body needs vitamin D to absorb Calcium and Phosphorus. These are minerals that help the bones keep their strength and hardness. If you have low or a lack of vitamin D in the body, these substances are not mineralized as they usually would. As a result, it leads to bone fragility. Moreover, if your child has reduced vitamin D levels, it may also lead to a similar health condition known as rickets.
Most people do not know they have this condition, but over time, you may notice bone pain that can spread throughout the body. Even simple movements may hurt you. In such cases, do not hesitate to visit a doctor for a diagnosis and treatment.
Symptoms
While the primary symptom of this disorder is bone pain, it may also cause other symptoms. Furthermore, the pain often occurs in the bones of your hips, pelvis, and legs. Check below for other symptoms of osteomalacia:
- Increased risk of bone fractures
- Muscle pain, stiffness, and weakness (especially during physical activity)
- Walking problems
- Changes in your gait
- Muscle cramps or spasms (especially in the feet or hands)
- Paresthesia (usually in the arms and legs)
- Frequent falls
Immediately contact your doctor if you have any of the previous symptoms.
Causes and Risk Factors
In most cases, people develop osteomalacia due to a vitamin D deficiency. Usually, people do not get enough from the sun, but it may also be from a poor diet (low in vitamin D). However, there are other possible causes of osteomalacia. These include:
- Liver disease
- Kidney failure
- Digestive disorders that may lead to malabsorption
- Antiseizure medications
- Rare genetic disorders
Anyone may develop this condition, but doctors have identified some factors that may increase your risk. Check below some examples:
- Obesity (excessive body weight)
- Age – Older adults (over 65 years old) are more prone to osteomalacia
- Pregnancy
- Recent bariatric surgery (such as gastric bypass surgery)
- Crohn’s disease
- Celiac disease
- Vegetarian or vegan diets
- Do not consume milk products
People who live in a cold and dark climate, work inside all day, wear clothing that covers most of the skin, or have darker skin pigmentation are also at increased risk of developing this condition.
What Are The Long-term Effects of Osteomalacia?
Some people with osteomalacia may also experience some complications. Check below some examples:
- Bone fractures or deformities (including scoliosis, pelvic tilting, bowed legs, and others)
- Muscle weakness and pain
- Joint issues (such as arthritis)
- Dental problems (including gum disease, tooth decay, and others)
- Neurological conditions (sometimes, osteomalacia may cause some neurological problems, including seizures, numbness and tingling, and others)
The previous list does not contain a full list of osteomalacia complications. However, you can consult with your doctor about ways to reduce the risk of developing this condition.
How to Prevent Osteomalacia?
In general, you can prevent this condition by getting enough sunlight and vitamin D from foods. Sometimes people cannot get enough vitamin D from sunlight alone. Usually, it depends on where you live and the time of the year. For instance, people with lighter skin often need 10 to 15 minutes of sunshine 2-3 times per week to get enough vitamin D. However, people with darker skin tone may need more time. Furthermore, you should spend a limited time in the sun. Otherwise, it may lead to an increased risk of skin cancer. Check below also some foods that may help supply vitamin D levels:
- Fatty fish (such as salmon, tuna, sardines, and mackerel)
- Rainbow trout
- Egg yolks
- Mushrooms
- Cod liver oil
- Red meat
- Beef liver
Consult with your doctor about other foods that are fortified with vitamin D. Those who do not get enough vitamin D from their diet and sunlight may need vitamin D supplements.
Diagnosis
Commonly, the diagnosis of osteomalacia begins with a physical examination to check for abnormalities linked to the disease. Physicians may also ask some questions about your nutrition and activity level. In most cases, when osteomalacia is suspected, doctors also perform blood tests to check for levels of Calcium, Phosphorus, and vitamin D. They may also check the levels of:
- Electrolytes
- Parathyroid hormone
- Alkaline phosphatase
- Creatinine
In some cases, you may also need to perform the following tests. For example:
- 24-hour urine test – It is used to check the amount of Calcium in the urine.
- X-rays – This is an imaging test used to check for bone weakening or fractures.
- Bone mineral density scan
- Bone biopsy – During this test, doctors will take a small amount of bone to see if you have bone softening.
Treatment
While the primary treatment for people with osteomalacia is supplements (including vitamin D, Calcium, or Phosphorus), you may need additional treatment for the underlying condition (such as kidney failure). Furthermore, doctors often recommend large doses of vitamin D supplements if you have had malabsorption problems or recent bariatric surgery. In most cases, people notice improvements within several months after starting the treatment. Check below for other options to relieve the symptoms and treat osteomalacia:
- Get enough sunlight exposure
- Wear braces to reduce or prevent bone problems
- Surgery to correct bone deformities (this treatment is often recommended when a person develops a severe form of osteomalacia)
- Add to your diet more foods rich in vitamin D and Calcium
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the prognosis for someone with osteomalacia?
In general, the prognosis of people with this condition is good, especially if the condition is diagnosed early. However, the bone will start to heal and strengthen again within 6 months after beginning the treatment.
When should I see my healthcare provider?
If you experience bone pain or other symptoms that resemble osteomalacia, it is advised to see a doctor. They will perform some tests to determine what exactly causes your symptoms.
What depletes your vitamin D?
There are some factors that may contribute to a lack of vitamin D in the body. For example, a lack of sun exposure, insufficient intake through diet, health conditions, or medications that negatively affect your absorption or metabolism. Furthermore, people with darker skin tone, older adults, and people who suffer from obesity are at higher risk of having low or a lack of vitamin D. Ask your healthcare provider if you have any other questions.
