The metabolic bone disease is an important morbidity in premature, very low birth weight and sick infants. If left undiagnosed, leads to structural deformities & spontaneous fractures.It is defined as impaired bone mineralization in a neonate with lower than the estimated bone mineral levels in either fetus or neonate of comparable gestational age / weight coupled with biochemical abnormalities with or without radiological manifestations. It has been reported to occur in 16% to 40% of extremely low birth weight neonates. Insufficient calcium and phosphorous stores during the phase of accelerated growth predispose to it along with use of medications (caffeine, steroids), prolonged parenteral nutrition & chronic immobilization. It presents by 6-16 weeks after birth. Enhanced physical activity in preterm infants facilitates bone mineralization and weight gain. Biochemical abnormalities tend to worsen significantly, as the severity of disease progresses. They consist of hypocalcemia, hypophosphatemia, hyperphosphatasia and secondary hyperparathyroidism. In addition, urinary phosphate wasting and hypo vitaminosis D can complicate these abnormalities. Conversely, biochemical abnormalities may not be accompanied by rachitic changes. Newer diagnostic modalities include bone densitometry by quantitative ultrasound over mid-tibial shaft (noninvasive tool). The management of metabolic bone disease includes adequate calcium, phosphorous and vitamin D supplementation along with optimum nutrition and physical activity. Similarly, preventive strategies for metabolic bone disease should target nutritional enhancement alongside enhanced physical activity. Conclusion: Metabolic bone disease is a preventable morbidity in preterm, VLBW neonates and requires optimum nutritional supplementation and enhanced physical activity.