Knock Knees and Bow Legs: What’s Normal and What’s Not?
As parents, it’s natural to worry when your child’s legs appear bowed or angled inward. But did you know that in many cases, these conditions are a normal part of development? Understanding the difference between typical growth patterns and signs of concern can help you make informed decisions for your child’s orthopedic health.
What Are Knock Knees and Bow Legs?
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Bow Legs (Genu Varum):
A condition where a child’s legs curve outward at the knees while the feet and ankles touch. -
Knock Knees (Genu Valgum):
A condition where the knees touch or angle inward while the ankles remain apart.
What’s Normal in Growing Children?
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Bow Legs:
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Common in infants and toddlers under age 2.
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Often due to their curled position in the womb.
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Usually corrects itself naturally by age 3.
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Knock Knees:
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Often seen between ages 3 to 5.
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Typically resolves on its own by age 7.
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It’s part of the body’s natural alignment changes during early childhood.
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When to Worry?
You should consult a pediatric orthopedic specialist if:
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The condition worsens instead of improving.
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One leg is more affected than the other.
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Your child experiences pain, limping, or difficulty walking.
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The condition persists beyond age 7–8.
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There’s a family history of bone disorders.
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There are other symptoms like short stature or abnormal gait.
What Causes Abnormal Cases?
While most cases are harmless, abnormal bow legs or knock knees can be due to:
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Rickets (Vitamin D deficiency)
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Blount’s disease
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Bone infections or injuries
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Genetic or metabolic bone disorders
Treatment Options
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Observation & Monitoring:
Many cases only need routine follow-up. -
Bracing:
Used in some conditions like Blount’s disease in early stages. -
Physical Therapy:
Helps improve muscle strength and gait. -
Surgical Intervention:
Recommended in severe or persistent cases to correct bone alignment.
Conclusion
Knock knees and bow legs are often part of normal development—but not always. If you notice unusual patterns or persistent issues in your child’s legs, don’t hesitate to consult an expert.
At Child OrthoCare, we provide personalized orthopedic evaluations to ensure your child grows strong and healthy. Early detection leads to better outcomes—book a consultation today!
Why Choose Child OrthoCare?
At Child OrthoCare, we specialize in evaluating children’s bone and joint health with a gentle, parent-friendly approach. Dr. Nargesh Agarwal brings years of experience in distinguishing between benign conditions like growing pains and more serious orthopedic concerns.
We aim to give you peace of mind while ensuring your child gets the care they truly need.
