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Knock Knees and Bowleg

If you suffer from knock knees and bowleg, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.

What Are Knock Knees and Bowlegs?

Knock knees and bowlegs are two common conditions that affect the alignment of the legs. Both knock knees and bowlegs can lead to problems with gait (walking pattern) and may cause strain on the knees, ankles, and hips. In some cases, they can contribute to joint pain, instability, and increased risk of injuries. If the condition is severe, causes significant discomfort, or interferes with daily activities, medical evaluation, and treatment may be necessary.

Knock Knees

Knock knees, also known as genu valgum, is a condition where the knees touch or come closer together while the feet and ankles remain apart. This causes the legs to angle inward, resulting in a distinct “knocked” appearance. Knock knees can occur naturally during childhood development and typically correct themselves as the child grows. However, in some cases, knock knees can persist into adulthood or develop as a result of an underlying condition or injury.

Knock knees can have several causes, including:

  1. Normal growth pattern: During early childhood, it is common for the legs to naturally curve inward due to the influence of the child’s posture and skeletal development. This is often referred to as physiological genu valgum and typically resolves on its own as the child grows.
  2. Bone development abnormalities: Certain skeletal conditions, such as Blount’s disease or skeletal dysplasia, can disrupt normal bone growth, leading to knock knees.
  3. Vitamin D deficiency: Inadequate levels of vitamin D can affect bone health and contribute to the development of knock knees.
  4. Obesity: Excess weight can place additional stress on the knees and contribute to the inward curvature of the legs.

Bowlegs

Bowlegs, also known as genu varum, is the opposite condition where the legs curve outward, causing the knees to be widely spaced while the ankles touch. This creates a distinct “bowlegged” appearance. Bowlegs are common in infants and toddlers as their legs naturally curve outward during early development. Most children outgrow bowlegs by the age of three or four. However, in some cases, bowlegs can persist or develop later in life due to certain medical conditions or nutritional deficiencies.

Bowlegs can have various causes, including:

  1. Normal growth pattern: Like knock knees, bowlegs are common in infants and toddlers due to the influence of posture and skeletal development. The legs typically straighten out as the child grows and begins to walk.
  2. Rickets: This is a condition caused by vitamin D deficiency or problems with its metabolism. Rickets can lead to soft and weak bones, resulting in bowlegs.
  3. Blount’s disease: This condition can cause abnormal growth of the shinbone, leading to bowlegs.
  4. Injury or trauma: In some cases, an injury or trauma to the legs can disrupt normal bone growth and contribute to bowlegs.

Treatments For Knock Knees and Bowlegs

Treatment for knock knees and bowlegs depends on the severity and underlying cause. In many cases, observation and monitoring are sufficient, as the legs often self-correct with time. However, if the condition persists or causes significant functional problems, treatment options may include:

  1. Physical therapy: Exercises and stretches can help improve leg alignment, strengthen muscles, and enhance stability.
  2. Orthotic devices: Custom-made shoe inserts or braces may be used to support the feet and legs and help align the knees properly.
  3. Surgical intervention: In rare cases of severe or persistent deformity, surgery may be recommended to correct the alignment of the legs and knees.

It’s important to consult a healthcare professional, such as an orthopedic specialist, for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment options based on individual circumstances. They can assess the severity of the condition, identify any underlying causes, and provide personalized recommendations for management and intervention, if necessary.

 

If you would like to speak to an Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Specialist, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us over the web. Tele-medicine appointments are also available.