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My bearded dragon has MBD. Why is he worsening with a hump & odd legs?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

My beardie was diagnosed with mbd but recently has been growing a hump on his back and has been folding his legs like this. Since he was diagnosed I've gotten better uvb lights , dust all his food with calcium , and even take him outside for sunlight but he still seems to be getting worse and I don't know what to do

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on May 4th, 2017

Have your herp veterinarian examine Nelson to rule out abscess (infection) or tumor. Make sure the UVB light source is not blocked by glass or plastic. Either blocks the beneficial rays. Position cage furniture so Nelson can bask 6-8 inches from the UVB source. Gut load prey for 24 hours before offering to Nelson to maximize nutritional value. Not all vitamin and mineral supplements are created equally. Herptivite and Reptile Calcium Powder with D3, both by Rep-Cal, are highly recommended. If he's using his hind limbs and can get around normally, there is likely no cause for concern. Beardies are known to strike crazy and humorous poses. Laying that way may be comfortable for him. If he is having difficulty moving around, it can be addressed by your vet during the exam.

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