If the condition continues, the ends of the long bones become enlarged. When the infant starts to walk, the legs may bend, resulting in either bowlegs or knock-knees. The chest may also be deformed, producing a pigeon breast, and small knobs may develop on the ends of the ribs. Rickets is treated by giving a concentrated supply of vitamin D in addition to an adequate diet. Calcium supplements may also be prescribed to help restore the normal calcium metabolism.
Any deformities usually disappear if the condition is treated in the early stages.