Genu valgum
Definition[edit | edit source]
An inward slant of the thigh where the legs turned inward.
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]
- Injury of the shinbone
- Osteomyelitis
- Overweight or obesity
- Rickets
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.
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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