Vitamin D was previously referred to as the sunshine vitamin. Mayo Clinic reports that as few as 10 minutes of sunlight per day can prevent a vitamin D deficiency. As active lifestyles prevent spending time outside, vitamin D must be obtained from other sources. A vitamin D deficiency could lead to several conditions, including cancer, osteoporosis, immune diseases and high blood pressure. Among other symptoms, leg cramps or pain may be caused by osteomalacia, a condition caused by low vitamin D levels.
History
Vitamin D promotes absorption of calcium and phosphorus. Vitamin D is essential to the growth, development and repair of bones. Vitamin D can also improve the function of the immune system and muscle function. Vitamin D deficiencies have become common as people avoid the sun with sunscreens, according to the Merck Manual.
Significance
Symptoms of a low vitamin D level include muscle pains, weakness and bone pain. In adults, osteomalacia, or soft bones is a "classic vitamin D deficiency disease," according to Mayo Clinic. Initially, osteomalacia has no symptoms. As the condition worsens, dull aching pain can occur in the legs, pelvis and lower spine, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Treatment
Leg pain associated with low vitamin D levels can affect the quality of your life. Generally, the Mayo Clinic recommends increasing the amount of vitamin D you receive each day as the simplest way of recovering from the condition. Depending on the level of vitamin D you have in your body, your doctor may also recommend supplementing with a pill or injection to increase the levels more quickly. Always follow the advice of your doctor before supplementing with any vitamin.
Effects
Low vitamin D levels can decrease mobility, cause weakness and decrease your muscle tone. Johns Hopkins Medicine attributes leg weakness, cramps and pain caused by severe vitamin D deficiency in the elderly as a possible cause for walking slowly, having difficulty getting up from a sitting position and as an increased possibility for being injured by a fall.
Prevention
If you are experiencing leg cramping, you should discuss your overall diet and sun exposure with your doctor. If he suspects that the condition is caused by a vitamin D deficiency, he may recommend a simple blood test to check your vitamin D level. You can prevent a deficiency by exposing your skin to 10 minutes of unobstructed sunlight each day. You can obtain vitamin D in your diet from foods such as fish, eggs and fortified milk. You may also want to discuss vitamin D supplements with your doctor.
