Bowed legs (medically referred to as genu varum) describe a leg alignment where the knees angle outward when standing. A simple way this is often noticed is when the ankles are together, but there is a visible gap between the knees (commonly more than 2.5 cm). In children, bowed legs in babies and toddlers are often part of normal growth and usually improve naturally.
We assess leg alignment and its effects on foot function, walking patterns, and comfort. If bowed leg alignment persists beyond early childhood, it can contribute to altered lower-limb mechanics, including excess foot pronation (rolling in), and may increase strain through the feet, shins, knees and hips over time.
Benefits of Assessment for Bow Legs
A clinical assessment helps determine whether the bowing is likely normal development or warrants further investigation. Benefits include:
- Clarity on whether alignment is within the expected developmental range
- Identification of foot mechanics linked to bow leg treatment planning
- Early support if discomfort is present in the feet, knees or legs
- Advice on footwear, stretching and activity modifications
What You Need to Know About Bowed Legs
Bowed Legs in Babies
Bowed legs are common in babies and young toddlers. In most cases, it’s a normal part of development, and the legs gradually straighten as your child grows, often by around age 2, sometimes a little later. Many children then go through a knock-kneed phase as their alignment continues to mature. If you’re concerned about your child’s leg or foot position.
When Bowing Persists
If bowing remains pronounced, worsens, or persists well beyond early childhood, it may be associated with various causes. Some cases may simply reflect genetics, while others may require medical investigation. Persistent bowing may contribute to changes in foot posture and gait, and this is where podiatry support can be useful.
Bowed Legs in Adults
Bowed legs in adults may be longstanding from childhood or develop later due to joint changes, previous injury, or bone-related conditions. Adults may notice une
Causes
Bowed leg alignment can occur for a range of reasons, including:
- Normal growth and development in early childhood
- Genetics and family traits
- Curvature of the tibia (shin bone) or alignment involving the whole limb
- Previous fractures that did not heal in ideal alignment
- Bone conditions such as rickets or Blount’s disease (often more noticeable on one side)
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Many children with bowed legs have no pain. Assessment becomes more important if there is:
- Pain in the knees, feet or lower legs
- Uneven walking pattern or frequent tripping
- Bowing that is worsening or noticeably one-sided
- Concerns beyond age-appropriate development
- In adults: knee pain, foot fatigue, instability, or progressive change in alignment
We assess lower-limb alignment, foot posture, gait analysis and functional movement patterns. If the appearance or pattern suggests an underlying cause, we may recommend referral to your GP or paediatric specialist for further investigation or foot and ankle imaging.
Bow Legs Treatment
Children
In most children, bow leg treatment is simple monitoring, as many cases resolve without intervention by age 2 to 3. When there is discomfort in the feet or knees, podiatry care may help support more comfortable movement as the child grows.
Supportive Care When Symptoms Occur
While the bone alignment itself is not typically “corrected” by exercises alone, we can help reduce strain caused by altered mechanics. Management may include:
- Supportive footwear assessment and advice
- Stretching or strengthening exercises where appropriate
- Orthotics to improve foot posture and reduce overload
- Bracing in specific cases, in collaboration with the broader healthcare team
Bowed Legs in Adults and Alignment Management
For bowed legs in adults, treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving function. If symptoms are significant, progressive, or linked with knee joint degeneration, medical review may be required.
It’s also important to be realistic about expectations: how to correct bow legs in adults depends on the cause and severity. In many adults, conservative care improves comfort and function, but true structural correction of the leg alignment may require orthopaedic input in select cases.
How It Works
Consultation
We discuss symptoms (if any), activity level, footwear, and any concerns about walking pattern or lower-limb strain.
Assessment
We assess alignment, gait, and foot posture, looking for mechanics that may contribute to discomfort.
Management Plan
If support is needed, we provide a practical plan which may include footwear advice, orthotics, stretching/strength work, and guidance on monitoring.
Referral Pathway
If red flags are present (one-sided bowing, worsening alignment, significant pain, delayed resolution), we guide referral to the appropriate medical professional for further investigation.
Why Choose Us?
Highett Podiatry provides clear guidance for families and adults managing bowed legs, focusing on how alignment affects foot function and daily comfort. If your child’s bowing seems persistent, or if you have bowed legs in adults, knee discomfort, or foot fatigue linked to alignment, we can help with a tailored plan and referral support when needed.
Book an appointment for assessment and advice on bowed legs in babies or adults. Contact us today.