Childhood is the most missed part of a person’s life. When you have no stress, no worries, and just have to spend your day either playing or studying. Falling and getting hurt are also common occurrences in this period. A child falling down and getting a small bruise is normal. But when a child breaks bones easily, complains of bone pain, or gets fractures from minor falls, it is natural for parents to get worried and wonder why their child’s bones break easily. Weak bones in children are not that common, but they do happen. Early identification of signs can ensure timely treatment.
In this blog, we are going to discuss brittle bones in children, their causes, and how a doctor evaluates the cause.
What Does Fragile Bones Mean in Children?
Fragile bones mean that a child’s bones are weaker than normal and can break more easily. Healthy bones in children are flexible and strong because they are still growing. When bones lack proper strength, even a small injury can lead to fractures. Understanding the reason behind it is essential for getting proper medical guidance. Bone weakness can be:
- Temporary due to nutrition or lifestyle factors
- Long-term due to medical conditions
- Can be genetic and present from birth
Common Signs of Weak Bones in Children
The signs of weak bones in children are quite noticeable and can be recognized at a young age. Given below are some of the common signs that, if parents notice in their children repeatedly, they should consult the best pediatric endocrinologist for bone disorders immediately.
- Frequent fractures from minor falls
- Bone or joint pain without injury
- Delayed growth or short height
- Bent legs or poor posture
- Tiredness or muscle weakness
- Delayed walking in younger children
Causes of Fragile Bones in Children
There is never one reason behind low bone density in children. It is always a combination of different reasons, which a doctor recognizes after evaluating the child’s nutrition, health history, and growth patterns. But some of the common reasons are:
Vitamin D Deficiency
The most common cause of bone weakness in children is Vitamin D deficiency. It helps the body absorb calcium. Without it, bones become soft and weak. It can also lead to a condition called rickets, which impacts bone shape and strength.
Causes of vitamin D deficiency include:
- Limited sunlight exposure
- Poor diet
- Excessive screen time indoors
Calcium Deficiency
Calcium is an essential nutrient important for strong bones. If a child’s diet does not consist of enough food rich in calcium, it can affect their bone strength and can lead to weak or brittle bones that break easily.
Low calcium intake may happen because:
- Poor diet
- Milk intolerance
- Picky eating habits
Lack of Physical Activity
In today’s world, led by technology, where a child learns how to use a phone before learning how to play, is becoming a leading cause of children’s bone health problems. Bones become stronger by moving, running, jumping, and playing.
Lack of physical activity may happen because:
- Too much screen time
- Very few outdoor activities
- Laziness or social isolation
Long-Term Medical Conditions
Other than lifestyle factors, medical conditions in children also play an equal part in bone weakness. If a child has a long-term illness, it may call for regular monitoring of bone health to avoid fractures in the future.
Health problems that can affect bone health are:
- Digestive disorders that reduce nutrient absorption
- Hormonal imbalance in children
- Chronic kidney or liver disease
Genetic Bone Conditions
In some rare cases, children are born with conditions that affect their bone strength. These children may experience fractures very early in life. These conditions usually need medical care and specialist support for life.
Key indicators of genetic bone disorder:
- Family history of weak bones
- Teeth discoloration due to calcium deficiency
- Delayed walking in toddlers
How Doctors Evaluate Bone Weakness in Children
When a child shows signs of fragile bones, a doctor’s goal is to treat it as well as find out the reason behind it. The common means of evaluation that a pediatric endocrinologist follows are:
Medical History
The doctor asks about past fractures, diet, sunlight exposure, and daily activity. They also check family history and any long-term illnesses.
Physical Examination
In physical examination, the child’s height, weight, posture, and bone shape are checked. This helps doctors see if growth and bone development are normal.
Blood Tests
Blood tests are taken to check levels of vitamin D, calcium, and other nutrients. These tests help find deficiencies that can weaken bones.
X-rays or Imaging Tests
X-rays are conducted to evaluate bone shape and healing from previous fractures. They help doctors spot soft or weak bones.
Final Thoughts: Healthy Habits During Childhood Build Strong Bones
Fragile bones in children can seem scary to many parents, but they can often be treated with proper care and medical guidance once the cause is identified. If you are worried about your child having weak bones, look for the above-mentioned signs in them and do not delay seeking medical help on time. Early diagnosis and timely treatment can protect your child’s bone health and ensure healthy growth. Most children recover fully with proper care, nutrition, and medical support.
Visit Dr. Ashish Malpani in Dubai to get experienced guidance and effective advice for your children’s bone health.