Warning Signs Of Osteomalacia

Issues With Walking

an old man with cruches being helped by a nurse. Photo Credit: Dreamstime @Dreamz

Due to the weakness that develops throughout the pelvic girdle with increased bone softening, a patient with osteomalacia can develop an awkward gait that resembles waddling. Walking becomes more difficult as time elapses, and the more pressure is placed on the pelvic girdle from body weight, the more problematic walking will likely be. Going up and down flights of stairs can become much more difficult, and even getting up from a seated position can become painful and frustrating for someone with osteomalacia. This also tends to limit the amount of exercise a person will do since walking becomes a painful task.

Numbness

Photo Credit: Dreamstime

Another warning sign to pay attention to is a numb feeling in the extremities. Lowered levels of vitamin D mean calcium cannot be properly absorbed, and this calcium depletion in the blood can lead to experiencing numbness and tingling. A patient with osteomalacia might end up experiencing muscle cramps in the arms, legs, hands, and feet, as well as a loss of sensation. Their limbs might also begin to frequently tingle. Additionally, numbness can occur around the mouth, although it is most commonly associated in the appendages. The numbness or tingling might feel like it spreads or becomes worse as osteomalacia progressively worsens.

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