BOW LEGS
WHAT ARE BOWED LEGS?
Medically referred to as Genu Varum, Bow legs is a condition where the child’s legs are bowed outwards in the standing position, so when the ankles are placed together the knees are greater than 2.5cms apart.
Bowed legs are commonly seen in infants, and should generally straighten around the age of 2. If this misalignment continues into adolescence it can lead to poor foot mechanics such as excess rolling in of the feet (pronation) and lower leg problems.
CAUSES
Curvature in the leg bone ‘tibia’ or may involve the entire limb
Bone Disease (Rickets or Blount’s disease and typically only affects one leg)
Normal growth development up age 2 Genetics
Fractures that do not heal properly
TREATMENT
In most children, bow legs disappear without treatment by the time they are age two or three. This is often followed by a period of time with knock knees.
The bow itself is not correctable, but if pain occurs in the knees or feet, orthotics and/or braces may be accompanied with supportive footwear and stretching exercises.
ALWAYS CONSULT A TRAINED PROFESSIONAL
The information in this resource is general in nature and is only intended to provide a summary of the subject matter covered. It is not a substitute for medical advice and you should always consult a trained professional practising in the area of medicine in relation to any injury or condition. You use or rely on information in this resource at your own risk and no party involved in the production of this resource accepts any responsibility for the information contained within it or your use of that information.