Genu valgum, or knocking knees, is common in children under six and usually goes away. If it persists, braces, physical therapy, and surgery may be needed. Causes include poor nutrition, obesity, and bone disorders. Corrective surgery is an option for adults.
Genu valgum is the medical term for knocking knees, a condition in which the lower legs bend outward. A mild form of the condition is very common in children under the age of six and typically goes away as the bones and muscles in the legs continue to develop normally. When knuckle knee persists into adolescence, however, doctors may consider the use of braces, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications to ease the discomfort placed on the knee joints. Surgical treatment may be needed if the condition is still present in adulthood, after the legs stop growing.
A person with knock knee is unable to keep their feet together when their knees touch. In standing position, the legs angle outward from the knees. Walking feels awkward as the afflicted individual must swing their leg outward when taking a step to avoid hitting the other knee, hence the term knees down. Many children between the ages of two and six show signs of mild knee valgus as the leg bones and motor skills develop.
Most people recover from the condition completely by around six years of age, although individuals with congenital bone disorders or metabolic problems may retain knee valgus. Poor nutrition, childhood obesity, Down syndrome, and rickets can also contribute to knee valgus persistence. A doctor usually tries to identify and treat the cause of twisted knees to promote proper bone growth and development. When the cause cannot be determined or treatment measures are ineffective, a doctor may consider more direct treatment options.
A person between the ages of 10 and 18 who still has twisted knees may suffer from chronic pain in their legs and be limited in physical activity. A doctor can conduct a thorough physical exam to determine the severity of knee valgus and leg length before deciding on treatment. Many teenagers are prescribed anti-inflammatory drugs to help with knee pain. An individual may be fitted with corrective knee pads which encourage the bones of the lower legs to grow straighter. Physical therapy is an option for those with less severe knees so they can learn to overcome the condition.
Corrective surgery is usually reserved for patients who still have knee knock after the leg bones have fully developed. The most common procedure for patients with twisted knees is known as an osteotomy. A surgeon can remove and reshape bone tissue near the knees to straighten the legs and take pressure off the joints. Surgical procedures are often effective in improving the cosmetic appearance of twisted knees, although a postoperative patient may be unable to engage in strenuous activity. However, with ongoing physical therapy and regular medical checkups, many people make a full recovery from their knee problems.
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