Genu valgum, commonly known as knock-knees, is a condition characterized by an inward deviation of the knees. It is often present from childhood and can impair leg and foot movement if untreated, potentially causing knee osteoarthritis. Early detection and tailored treatment are essential.
Valgus Knee Symptoms and Complications
Valgus knee is a physiological abnormality often noted in infants who initially have outward limb deviation that typically reverses during childhood. Persistence of this deformity into adulthood can cause issues such as a pronounced inward knee deviation, knee protrusion, mobility difficulties, lower limb pain (see advice), stiffness, pain in feet, ankles or hips, balance problems, and joint stiffness near the knees. Untreated cases may develop osteoarthritis.
What Causes Knock-Knees?
Valgus knee most commonly appears in children due to natural alignment and ligament hyperlaxity, which usually resolves before adolescence. The condition becomes pathological if it persists beyond 7-8 years or is severe early on. Factors contributing include genetics, unhealed fractures, obesity, tibia injuries, and bone malformations.
Valgus Knee Prevention
Though often self-correcting in children, valgus knee requires attention to prevent long-term quality of life impact. Preventative measures include maintaining healthy weight, regular physical activity, and wearing stabilizing heels if asymmetrical valgus is present.
Valgus Knee Treatments for Children and Adults
A thorough assessment is crucial for children to prevent severe deformities. Both children and adults may be diagnosed by a podiatrist, who can offer minimally invasive treatments such as foot orthotics to realign the knee and strengthening exercises. If conservative therapies fail, pediatric orthopedic surgery may be necessary.
In older adults, options include unicompartimental or total joint prostheses, especially when osteoarthritis has damaged cartilage, or osteotomy to correct bone alignment. For younger patients with serious deformities, epiphysiodesis surgery can slow growth plate development but is not suitable for children under 11 years. Early intervention reduces osteoarthritis risk and improves life quality.
PiedReseau – Learn More
For further information on valgus knee, PiedReseau offers many educational resources. However, nothing replaces a professional consultation with a podiatrist. Remember to care for your feet—they are essential!