DefinitionRickets is a disorder caused by a lack of vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate. It leads to softening and weakening of the bones.Alternative NamesOsteomalacia in children; Vitamin D deficiency; Renal ricketsCauses, incidence, and risk factorsVitamin D helps the body control calcium and phosphate levels. If the blood levels of these minerals become too low, the body may produce hormones that cause calcium and phosphate to be released from the bones. This leads to weak and soft bones.Vitamin D is absorbed from food or produced by the skin when exposed to sunlight. Lack of vitamin D production by the skin may occur in people who:Live in climates with little exposure to sunlightMust stay indoorsWork indoors during the daylight hoursYou may not get enough vitamin D from your diet if you:A