Bowleg

Bowleg (also known as genu varum) is a condition in which a person's legs appear bowed outwards, such that the knees stay wide apart even when the ankles are together. This condition is common in infants and toddlers, but it usually corrects itself as the child grows. However, if bowlegs persist beyond early childhood, it may indicate an underlying condition that requires medical attention.

Causes

Bowleg 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 resolves without treatment.
• 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: Injuries to the growth plate in the leg bones can result in bowleg.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of bowleg is the outward curvature of the legs. Other symptoms may include:

• Uneven leg lengths
• Knee pain
• Difficulty walking or running
• Limping

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of bowleg typically involves a physical examination and a review of the patient's medical history. Imaging tests such as X-rays may be used to assess the severity of the condition and to identify any underlying causes.

Treatment

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

• Observation: In cases of physiological bowing, no treatment is usually necessary as the condition often resolves on its own.
• Bracing: For conditions like Blount's disease, bracing may help to correct the leg alignment.
• Medication: In cases of rickets, vitamin D and calcium supplements may be prescribed.
• Surgery: Severe cases or those caused by bone dysplasia or trauma may require surgical intervention to correct the leg alignment.

Prognosis

The prognosis for bowleg varies depending on the cause and the effectiveness of the treatment. Physiological bowing generally has an excellent prognosis, with most children outgrowing the condition. Other causes may require more intensive treatment but can often be managed successfully with appropriate medical care.

Related Pages

• Blount's disease
• Rickets
• Bone dysplasia
• Vitamin D deficiency
• Orthopedic surgery