Knock knees, also known as genu valgum, is a condition where the knees touch each other when the legs are straightened, but there is a gap between the ankles.
In other words, when a person with genu valgum stands with their feet together, their knees may touch or even overlap, while their ankles remain apart.
This causes the legs to curve inward, giving the appearance of “knocking” together.
genu valgum are commonly seen in young children between the ages of 2 and 5, as their legs are still developing.
In most cases, the condition corrects itself as the child grows and the legs align properly by the age of 7 or 8.
However, in some cases, it can persist into adulthood or develop later in life.
Causes of Knock knees
here are various causes, including:
Normal growth patterns:
In young children, it can be a normal part of growth and development.
As the child grows, the legs gradually straighten out.
Bone development disorders:
Certain medical conditions, such as rickets (caused by vitamin D deficiency) or Blount’s disease (abnormal growth of the shinbone), can contribute to the development of knock knees.
Genetics:
It can run in families, so there may be a genetic component involved.
Injury or trauma:
A significant injury to the leg or knee can lead to the development of knock knees.
genu valgum symptoms
Knock knees, or genu valgum, can present with the following symptoms:
Visible curvature of the legs:
The most apparent symptom of knock knees is the inward curvature of the legs, where the knees touch or even overlap while the ankles remain apart.
This can be easily observed when the person stands with their feet together.
Gait abnormalities:
It can affect the person’s walking pattern or gait.
They may appear to waddle or have an awkward stride due to the altered alignment of their legs.
Knee pain:
Some individuals with knock knees may experience knee pain or discomfort, particularly after physical activity or prolonged periods of standing or walking.
Joint instability:
It can lead to joint instability in the knees and ankles.
This can cause a feeling of weakness or give way, making activities that require balance or weight-bearing challenging.
Developmental concerns in children:
In young children, knock knees are usually a normal part of growth and development.
However, if the condition persists beyond the age of 7 or 8 or is associate with other developmental issues.
it may be a cause for concern and should be evaluate by a healthcare professional.
It is important to note that knock knees can vary in severity.
While some cases may be mild and require no treatment, others may be more significant and cause functional or cosmetic concerns.
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of knock knees or has concerns about leg alignment, it’s advisable to seek medical advice from a healthcare professional .
who can assess the condition and provide appropriate guidance and treatment if necessary.
knock knees diagnosis
The diagnosis of knock knees, or genu valgum, typically involves a comprehensive evaluation
By a healthcare professional, such as an orthopedic specialist, Physiotherapists or a pediatrician.
The genu valgum diagnosis may include the following steps:
Medical history:
The doctor will begin by gathering information about the individual’s medical history.
including any previous injuries or medical conditions that may be contributing to the knock knees.
Physical examination:
A thorough physical examination will be conducted to assess the alignment of the legs and joints.
The doctor will observe the standing posture, gait, and the extent of the leg curvature.
They may also examine the range of motion of the knees and perform specific tests to evaluate joint stability.
Imaging tests:
In some cases, imaging tests may be order to further evaluate the condition. X-rays can provide a detailed view of the bones and joints.
allowing the doctor to measure the angles between the femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shinbone) and assess the severity of the knock knees.
Additional tests:
If an underlying medical condition is suspect as the cause of knock knees / genuvalgum, some other tests may be recommend.
These may include blood tests to check for vitamin D deficiency or other metabolic abnormalities.
By combining the information obtained from the medical history, physical examination, and any necessary imaging or laboratory tests
The healthcare professional can make a diagnosis of knock knees and determine the appropriate course of treatment, if needed.
Knock knees Physiotherapy Treatment
Physiotherapy can be an effective treatment approach for individuals with knock knees.
especially in cases where the condition causes discomfort, affects function, or is associated with muscle imbalances.
A physiotherapist can make a short term and long term goals accordingly.
Here are some common physiotherapy interventions for knock knees:
Strengthening exercises:
Specific exercises will be prescribe to strengthen the muscles around the knees, hips, and thighs.
These exercises may include leg presses, squats, lunges, and resistance training to target the quadriceps, hamstrings, and hip abductor muscles.
Strengthening these muscles can help provide stability and improve leg alignment.
Stretching exercises:
Stretching exercises are use to improve flexibility and range of motion.
Targeted stretches for the muscles that tend to be tight in individuals with knock knees, such as the hip adductors (inner thigh muscles), can be prescribed.
Additionally, stretching exercises for the calves and hamstrings may be beneficial in some cases.
Alignment training:
The physiotherapist may focus on teaching proper alignment and weight distribution during standing, walking, and other functional activities.
They may use visual cues, mirrors, or feedback techniques to help the individual develop better body awareness and maintain optimal leg alignment.
Gait retraining:
If knock knees affect the individual’s gait pattern, the physiotherapist may work on correcting the walking pattern.
This may involve exercises and techniques to improve stride, foot placement, and overall gait mechanics.
Orthotic devices:
In some cases, the physiotherapist may recommend or prescribe orthotic devices.
such as shoe inserts or braces, to help support proper leg alignment and provide additional stability during weight-bearing activities.
Education and activity modification:
The physiotherapist can provide guidance on lifestyle modifications.
including proper footwear, activity modifications and ergonomic recommendations to minimize stress on the knees and promote optimal alignment.
It is important to note that the specific physiotherapy interventions will depend on the individual’s unique needs and the severity of the knock knees.
A physiotherapist will assess the condition and develop a personalized treatment plan.
It is recommended to consult with a qualified physiotherapist for a comprehensive evaluation and guidance on appropriate exercises and interventions.
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