Knock Knees
What are Knock Knees?
Knock knees (medically called genu valgum) is a condition where a child’s knees touch or come close together when standing straight, while the ankles remain apart. It’s a common developmental stage in young children and is usually part of normal growth.
What Causes Knock Knees?
In most cases, knock knees are a normal part of growth and self-correct over time—especially between ages 3 and 7. However, more pronounced or persistent cases may be due to underlying issues such as bone growth disorders, rickets, or previous injury to the growth plate.
What to Look For (Physical Examination)
You may notice your child’s knees angle inward when they stand, walk, or run. The condition is usually painless and noticed around age 2–4, often improving on its own by age 7. If one side is worse, or if symptoms appear later in childhood, further assessment is important.
How is Knock Knees Treated?
For most children, no treatment is needed other than reassurance and observation. If the knock knees are severe, symptomatic, or persist into adolescence, treatment options include guided growth (temporary implant to gradually correct alignment) or, rarely, corrective surgery.
Possible Complications
If left untreated in severe cases, knock knees can cause knee pain, abnormal walking patterns, and early joint wear. Early evaluation helps determine whether your child simply needs time to grow—or whether intervention is recommended.
Tests and Investigations
Most children with knock knees do not need special tests. However, if the condition is severe, getting worse, or present after age 8, your doctor may order standing X-rays to measure the angle and assess the alignment of the legs. Blood tests may be needed if rickets or other metabolic conditions are suspected.
What to Expect
(Outcomes)
Mild knock knees usually resolve without treatment. If intervention is needed, modern techniques can successfully correct alignment and restore full function. Children generally return to normal activity after treatment with excellent long-term results.
Do you have a Question?
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