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| State University of New York at Buffalo - Department of Orthopaedics |
| KNOCK KNEES (GENU VALGUM) |
| You have noticed that your child walks or runs with his/her knees very close together, perhaps even touching when walking. This condition is called Knock Knees or Genu Valgum. Although it is of an understandable concern to you and your child, it does not cause any serious complications or problems in life. |
| WHAT ARE KNOCK KNEES? |
| In the first 12 months of life, bowed legs are normal. The legs naturally bow outward and begin to straighten as the baby grows. By age 4, it is common to see the child develop Knock Knees and then between ages 7 and 10 the legs again become straight. A family history of Knock Knees is common. |
| In some cases, the Knock Knees are due to trauma to the growth areas in the knees, infections or, very rarely, arthritis. Most of the cases do not require any treatment. |
| WHAT IS THE TREATMENT FOR KNOCK KNEES? |
| For most children the treatment is observation, allowing time and growth to correct the legs. You may want to take a picture of your child standing and, several months later, take another photo to compare the straightening process. |
| Answers to Commonly Asked Questions |
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1. Even if Knock Knees continue into adulthood, rarely would any serious complications
occur 2. Children with Knock Knees can effectively participate in sports 3. Bracing will not correct the normal growth pattern of Knock Knees 4. Knock Knees will not interfere with your child's ability to have children or to lead a normal life |
| Occasionally, bracing is used if the Knock Knees continue to progress. Only in rare cases is an operation needed (after 10 years of age) to correct the legs. Generally, surgery is performed for cosmetic reasons and not because of medical necessity. |
| Back to the Children's Hospital of Buffalo - Department of Orthopaedics |