Menu Healthy Lifestyle Diseases & Conditions First Aid Symptoms Tests & Procedures Videos Definitions FAQs RicketsUpdated: 2018-05-26OverviewVitamin D promotes the body's absorption of calcium and phosphorus. Extreme or prolonged lack of vitamin D makes it difficult to maintain proper calcium and phosphorus levels in bones, which can cause rickets.SymptomsSymptoms include delayed growth, bow legs, weakness, and pain in the spine, pelvis, and legs. TreatmentsTreatment may involve adding vitamin D or calcium to the diet, medications, or possibly surgery. © 1998-2022 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research(MFMER). All rights reserved. Terms of Use