Knock Knees
Pediatric Evaluation & Care
Understanding Knock Knees (Genu Valgum)
It can be highly concerning for a parent to watch their child walk or run with their knees rubbing closely together while their ankles remain far apart. This angular alignment of the legs is known medically as Genu Valgum, or more commonly, "knock knees." While it looks alarming, the reassuring truth is that for many children, this is simply a normal phase of human growth and development.
The Natural Development Cycle
A child's leg alignment changes drastically during their first decade of life. In the first 12 to 18 months, babies are naturally bow-legged. As they begin to walk and bear weight, the legs bow outward and gradually straighten. However, around age 3 to 4, it is incredibly common for the pendulum to swing the other way, causing the child to become visibly knock-kneed. In typical development, these legs will naturally straighten out again between the ages of 7 and 10.
When Should You Be Concerned?
While most cases resolve on their own, some instances of knock knees require medical intervention. You should seek an evaluation from our pediatric podiatrist if your child experiences any of the following:
- Asymmetry: The angle is significantly worse in one leg than the other.
- Pain or Clumsiness: The condition causes knee pain, foot pain, or causes the child to trip and fall frequently while playing.
- Late Persistence: The knock-kneed alignment persists or worsens past the age of 8.
- Family History: There is a strong genetic family history of severe leg misalignment or bone disorders.
How Podiatry Helps Knock Knees
You might wonder why a foot doctor treats knee alignment. The answer is biomechanics! The foot is the foundation of the body. Severe flat feet (overpronation) forces the ankles to roll inward, which physically pulls the knees together. By treating the foundation with custom pediatric orthotics, Dr. Soltani can align the foot and ankle, drastically reducing the strain and angular pressure on the knee joints above.
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