Bow Leg

Bow Leg

Bow leg, also known as genu varum, is a condition in which the knees stay wide apart when a person stands with their feet and ankles together. It is a common condition in infants and toddlers, but it can also occur in older children and adults.

Causes

Bow legs can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Physiological bowing: This is the most common cause in infants and young children. It is a normal variation in growth and usually corrects itself as the child grows.
• Blount's disease: A growth disorder of the shin bone (tibia) that causes the lower leg to angle inward.
• Rickets: A condition caused by a deficiency of vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate, leading to softening and weakening of the bones.
• Bone dysplasia: A group of disorders that affect bone growth and development.
• Trauma: Injury to the growth plate of the bone can result in abnormal growth and bowing.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of bow legs is the visible outward bowing of the legs. Other symptoms may include:

• Uneven leg lengths
• Knee pain
• Difficulty walking or running
• Increased risk of developing osteoarthritis in the knees and hips

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of bow legs typically involves a physical examination and medical history review. Additional diagnostic tests may include:

• X-ray: To assess the alignment of the bones and identify any underlying conditions.
• Blood tests: To check for deficiencies or underlying conditions such as rickets.

Treatment

Treatment for bow legs depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. Options may include:

• Observation: In cases of physiological bowing, no treatment is necessary as the condition often resolves on its own.
• Bracing: In some cases, braces or orthotic devices may be used to help correct the alignment of the legs.
• Surgery: In severe cases or when other treatments are ineffective, surgical intervention may be necessary to correct the alignment of the bones.

Prognosis

The prognosis for individuals with bow legs varies depending on the underlying cause and the effectiveness of treatment. Many children with physiological bowing will see improvement without intervention. Early diagnosis and treatment of underlying conditions such as Blount's disease or rickets can improve outcomes.

Related Pages

• Blount's disease
• Rickets
• Osteoarthritis
• Bone dysplasia
• X-ray