Rickets Symptoms in Children Rickets is a common childhood disease in which vitamin D deficiency causes abnormal bone and muscle development. The following are common symptoms of rickets in children: 1. Bone deformation: Rickets causes bone deformation, including bending of the knees and elbows, and protrusion of the sternum. A child may experience leg pain or immobility when they are constantly walking or moving. 2. Muscle atrophy: Muscle shortening may cause children to walk unsteadily or be unable to stand. Children may show symptoms such as abnormal gait, uncoordinated steps, difficulty moving their arms, and abnormalities when crawling. 3. Wisdom