How is Rickets primarily treated?

Rickets is a condition that primarily arises from a deficiency of vitamin D, which is crucial for the absorption of calcium and phosphate in the body. When vitamin D levels are inadequate, it leads to weak or soft bones due to insufficient mineralization, resulting in the characteristic symptoms of rickets.

Vitamin D supplementation addresses the root cause of the condition by restoring adequate levels of this vitamin in the body, thereby improving calcium and phosphate metabolism. This process helps to strengthen bones and improve overall bone health. By replenishing vitamin D, the body can then effectively utilize calcium, promoting healthy bone development and repair.

While calcium supplementation can also play a supportive role in treatment, it does not address the underlying deficiency of vitamin D that is critical for the absorption and utilization of calcium. Similarly, a protein-rich diet, while important for overall health and growth, does not directly affect the mineralization of bones in the context of rickets. Surgical intervention might be necessary in severe cases or to correct deformities caused by rickets, but it is not the primary treatment for the condition itself. Therefore, vitamin D supplementation is the most effective and direct approach to treat rickets.