Knock Knees (Genu Valgum)

Key Points

Overview

Knock knees, medically known as genu valgum, is a condition where the knees touch or nearly touch when a person stands with their feet apart, creating a noticeable gap between the ankles. It is a very common developmental stage in children, particularly between the ages of 3 and 6, and typically resolves on its own as they grow. While most children outgrow knock knees without any issues, it can sometimes persist into older childhood or adulthood. In these cases, or if the condition is severe, it might lead to symptoms like knee pain or difficulty walking. Management often involves observation for children, as their legs naturally straighten. For persistent or problematic cases, treatments like physiotherapy or specialist consultation may be recommended, and rarely, surgery might be considered.

Signs and Symptoms

• Gap between ankles when knees are together
• Knee or leg pain
• Difficulty walking
• Limping
• Swelling, stiffness, or warmth in the knee
• Only one leg affected
• Legs appear different lengths

Things That Increase the Risk

• Injury to knees or legs
• Bone infection (osteomyelitis)
• Arthritis
• Vitamin D deficiency
• Genetic conditions affecting joints (e.g., Ehlers-Danlos)
• Onset in adulthood
• Severe short stature or underweight in children

Diagnosis

• Physical examination by a doctor
• Measuring the gap between ankles
• Assessing walking pattern and mobility
• Evaluating for pain, swelling, or stiffness
• Specialist referral for further tests (if severe or persistent)

Treatment & Management

• Observation (for young children, often resolves naturally)
• Physiotherapy exercises
• Treatment from a foot specialist (podiatrist)
• Addressing underlying medical conditions (e.g., vitamin D deficiency)
• Surgery to straighten legs (rarely, for severe cases)

Prevention

• Regular monitoring of child development
• Ensuring adequate vitamin D intake
• Prompt treatment of bone infections
• Managing underlying joint conditions
• Early consultation for persistent or worsening symptoms

Related Diseases

• Osteomyelitis
• Arthritis
• Vitamin D Deficiency
• Joint Hypermobility Syndrome
• Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes

Available Treatments

Explore our range of treatment options for Knock Knees (Genu Valgum):

Surgical Options

Learn about surgical procedures available for Knock Knees (Genu Valgum):