The most common cause of a vitamin D deficiency is due to lack of exposure to sunlight, usually when the diet is deficient in vitamin D, however also certain disorders may cause a deficiency. Without enough of the sunshine vitamin, muscle and bone weakness and pain may occur. If you have this sensation in your fingers it could be a warning that you may be vitamin D deficient.
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Vitamin D is stored in the liver and vitamin D2 and D3 are not active in the body.
Both forms must be processed by the liver and kidneys into an active form called active vitamin D or calcitriol.
This active form promotes absorption of calcium and phosphorus from the intestine. Calcium and phosphorus, which are minerals, are incorporated into bones to make them strong and dense.
Thus, calcitriol is necessary for the formation, growth and repair of bones.
Lacking in this will create a myriad of problems including this particular sign in your fingers.
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Vitamin D helps the bones absorb calcium, which is vital to bone health. It’s also crucial for muscle movement, communication between nerves, and fighting inflammation.
For a person who experiences finger stiffness this could be an early warning sign of a vitamin D deficiency.
According to the Arthritis Foundation, people who take oral steroids have a vitamin D deficiency twice as often as people who don’t take them.
Oral steroids are a common treatment for people with arthritis.
What does the study say?
In a study published in the journal of musculoskeletal medicine, vitamin D deficiency and musculoskeletal manifestations was investigated.
The study noted: “A disruption in any part of the vitamin D physiological pathway can result in vitamin D deficiency, which may lead to bone pain, muscle weakness, falls, low bone mass, and fractures.
Recognising the signs and symptoms helps physicians make a proper diagnosis and prescribe appropriate treatment.
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Physicians should suspect osteomalacia in patients who have prolonged vitamin D deficiency, a low serum calcium level, or a low serum phosphorus level.”
The study looked at a 41-year-old woman who reported that she noted a “snap” and sudden pain in her right groin. Upon further examinations it was noted that she had a vitamin D deficiency.
It’s important to get enough calcium and vitamin D for healthy bones. This is the first step to prevention or treatment of osteoporosis.
Calcium is essential to keeping the bones healthy, while vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium as well as protect the bones.
Food is the best source of these nutrients including tuna, fatty fish and beef liver.
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