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How does osteomalacia affect adult bones?

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bone disease Defect of tibia, caused by septic osteomyelitis in childhood, with compensatory thickening of the fibula (right). Normal bones are shown at left.

Osteomalacia is a condition in which adult bones progressively soften due to inadequate mineralization of the organic bone matrix. While the protein matrix (osteoid) is produced normally or in increased amounts, it fails to calcify properly because of a low calcium-phosphate ion product in body fluids.123

The condition affects the entire skeleton, though abnormalities are most evident in areas of maximal mechanical load, such as the pelvis and thighbones. Its primary effects on adult bones include:2

Bone Pain and Tenderness: Patients often experience persistent bone pain and tenderness.12
Increased Fracture Susceptibility: The softening of the bone leads to a higher risk of spontaneous, often symmetric fractures.12
Muscle and Nerve Impairment: If blood calcium levels fall significantly, individuals may experience muscle weakness, numbness in the extremities, and spasms (tetany).12

Osteomalacia is typically caused by deficiencies in vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate, often resulting from dietary issues, malabsorption, or kidney and liver disorders. Treatment generally involves a balanced diet and supplementation with vitamin D, calcium, and protein.123