Osteomalacia

Osteomalacia means "soft bones". Osteoid is the bone protein matrix, composed primarily of type 1 collagen. When there is insufficient mineral or due to some kind of osteoblast dysfunction, osteoid does not mineralize properly, and get accumulated. Many cases of osteomalacia are related to abnormalities in vitamin D.
When the newly formed bone of the growth plate does not mineralize, the growth plate becomes wide and irregular. This results in the clinical diagnosis of rickets, and is seen only in children because adults no longer have growth plates. When the remodeled bone fails to mineralize, osteomalacia occurs, and this happens in all ages. Most of the hereditary causes of osteomalacia appear during childhood and cause rickets.

• Bone pain in arms, legs, spine, and pelvis, with actual tenderness of the bones.
• Progressive weakness.

Taking vitamin D can be a preventive measure against osteomalacia.

One of the two most common causes of Osteomalacia is a problem of fat malabsorption called steatorrhea. In this condition, the body is unable to absorb fats, and they are passed out directly to the stool. The result of this problem is that Vitamin D, which is usually absorbed with fat, and calcium is poorly absorbed. This poor absorption can be a result of digestive disorders.
The other common cause of Osteomalacia is an increased amount of acid in the body fluids because of kidney dysfunction called tubular acidosis, this problem occurs in persons with congenital or acquired kidney disorders. In simple terms, this increased acid gradually dissolves the skeleton

If your physician suspects Osteomalacia or rickets, a blood test may be done to measure the amounts of the minerals calcium and phosphorus. X-rays of the affected bones must be obtained. Infrequently, a bone biopsy, in which a small sample of bone tissue is removed for analysis, may also be needed to confirm the diagnosis.
Once Osteomalacia is diagnosed, the next step is to find out whether the cause is an intestinal problem or a kidney defect.

Osteomalacia and rickets rarely result from lack of vitamin D in developed countries. However, if you or your child has trouble digesting milk products, your physician may advise taking vitamin D supplements to be sure that no deficiency occurs. A long-term deficiency of calcium in the diet may also result in Osteomalacia, but it usually causes osteoporosis. There is also a hereditary form of rickets with shortened adult stature, often called vitamin D-resistant rickets.

Take in vitamin D through exposure to sunlight. Avoid smoking as it increases bone briittleness. Swim or walk in the ocean when possible

Aerobic exercises and lightweight training are good for bone formation and the best way to build bone resistance.