What physical symptom can indicate a vitamin D deficiency related to rickets?

A vitamin D deficiency can lead to rickets, particularly in children, where calcium and phosphate levels are affected, resulting in weakened bones. One of the hallmark physical symptoms associated with rickets is the presence of bowed legs. This condition arises because the bones, particularly in the lower extremities, fail to properly mineralize; as a result, they cannot adequately support the weight of the body, leading to deformities like bowing of the legs.

Bowed legs occur due to the structural changes in the growth plates (epiphyseal plates) that result from insufficient vitamin D. The lack of this vitamin impairs the bone's capacity to absorb calcium and phosphate, critical minerals for bone growth and density. Over time, this not only affects the legs but can also impact other areas of the skeleton.

Skeletal pain, weakness in ligaments, and muscle cramps are associated with various conditions but are not as directly indicative of rickets as bowed legs. While these symptoms can occur in vitamin D deficiency, the classic manifestation in young children remains the deformation of bones, notably presenting as bowed legs.