Genu valgum

From WikiMD's Wellnesspedia

Definition[edit | edit source]

An inward slant of the thigh where the legs turned inward.

Genu valgum
Genu valgum

Development[edit | edit source]

  • Infants start out with bowlegs and at age 3, the child becomes knock-kneed.
  • When the child stands, the knees touch but the ankles are apart.
  • By puberty, the legs straighten out and most children can stand with the knees and ankles touching.

Causes[edit | edit source]

Genu valgum and Genu Varum
Genu valgum and Genu Varum

Investigations[edit | edit source]

  • History, physical examination, genetic or family history, tests for vitamin D, calcium, and other metabolic factors, imaging studies such as X-rays, MRI and or CT scan may also be needed.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

  • Knock knees are not treated in most cases.
  • If the problem continues after age 7, the child may use a night brace. This brace is attached to a shoe.
  • Surgery may be considered for knock knees that are severe and continue beyond late childhood.
Genu valgum
Genu valgum

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

  • Children normally outgrow knock knees without treatment, unless it is caused by a disease.
  • If surgery is needed, the results are most often good.

Complications[edit | edit source]

  • Difficulty walking
  • Self-esteem changes related to cosmetic appearance of knock knees
  • If left untreated, knock knees can lead to early arthritis of the knee

Prevention[edit | edit source]

There is no known prevention

Other names[edit | edit source]

Knock knees

Also see[edit | edit source]



Genu valgum Resources

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