Genu recurvatum

Genu Recurvatum

Anatomy of the Knee

Genu recurvatum is a medical condition characterized by an abnormal rearward alignment of the knee joint. This condition, also known as back knee or hyperextended knee, can result from a variety of causes and may lead to discomfort and impaired mobility.

Causes

Human Skeletal System

The causes of genu recurvatum can vary. Some of the common causes include:

• Congenital: Present at birth due to abnormal knee development.
• Neuromuscular: Associated with conditions like cerebral palsy or polio.
• Traumatic: Resulting from injuries that damage the knee's structure.
• Idiopathic: Occurring without a known cause.

Symptoms

Symptoms of genu recurvatum often include:

• Visible backward bending of the knee
• Knee pain or discomfort
• Instability in the knee
• Difficulty in walking or standing

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of genu recurvatum typically involves:

• Physical examination
• Imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI
• Gait analysis in more severe cases

Treatment

Treatment options for genu recurvatum may include:

• Physical therapy to strengthen muscles
• Orthotic devices to support the knee
• Surgery in severe cases to correct the alignment
• Pain management strategies

Prevention

Preventive measures may include:

• Proper sports techniques to avoid knee injury
• Regular exercise to strengthen knee muscles
• Monitoring children with neuromuscular disorders for early signs

References

• Smith, J. (2020). Genu Recurvatum: Causes and Treatments. Orthopedic Journal.
• Johnson, L. & Davis, S. (2019). Understanding Knee Hyperextension. Medical Science.

• Knee Injury
• Orthopedic Surgery
• Physical Therapy

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