Bow Legged: Causes, Treatments

What are the symptoms of being bow-legged?

Bow-leggedness, also known as genu varum, is a condition where the legs curve outward at the knees, causing the knees to be apart even when the ankles are together. Symptoms of being bow-legged may include:

1. Visible outward curvature of the legs: The most noticeable symptom of bow-leggedness is the outward curvature of the legs, which can be seen when standing with the feet together and the knees apart.
2. Knee or joint pain: Some people with bow-leggedness may experience pain in the knees or other joints due to the abnormal alignment of the legs.
3. Difficulty walking or running: The outward curvature of the legs can affect the way a person walks or runs, leading to a waddling gait or other abnormalities in movement.
4. Joint stiffness: Bow-leggedness can cause stiffness in the knees or other joints, especially after periods of inactivity.
5. Developmental delays in children: In some cases, bow-leggedness may be a sign of a developmental issue in children, particularly if it persists beyond a certain age or is associated with other symptoms.

It’s important to note that mild bow-leggedness is relatively common in young children and usually corrects itself as the child grows. However, persistent or severe bow-leggedness may require medical evaluation and treatment. If you or your child is experiencing symptoms of bow-leggedness, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.

What are the causes of bow-leggedness?

Bow-leggedness, or genu varum, can have several causes, including:

1. Normal variation in growth: In infants and toddlers, bow-leggedness is a normal variation in leg shape as the child’s legs develop. This usually corrects itself by around age 2 as the child begins to bear weight and walk.
2. Rickets: Rickets is a condition caused by a deficiency in vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate, which are essential for healthy bone development. Rickets can lead to softening and weakening of the bones, which can result in bow-leggedness.
3. Blount’s disease: Blount’s disease is a growth disorder that affects the shinbone (tibia), causing it to bow outward instead of growing straight. It is more common in children who are overweight or obese.
4. Genetic or congenital conditions: Some genetic or congenital conditions, such as skeletal dysplasias or genetic disorders that affect bone growth, can lead to bow-leggedness.
5. Injury or infection: Trauma to the leg or an infection in the bone can disrupt normal bone growth and lead to bow-leggedness.
6. Bone disorders: Certain bone disorders, such as osteomalacia or Paget’s disease, can affect bone growth and lead to bow-leggedness.
7. Overuse or excessive weight-bearing: Activities or conditions that place excessive stress on the legs, such as certain sports or obesity, can contribute to the development of bow-leggedness.

Treatment for bow-leggedness depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. In many cases, especially in young children, no treatment is necessary as the legs will straighten out on their own as the child grows. However, if bow-leggedness is severe or persists beyond a certain age, treatment may be needed, which can include bracing, physical therapy, or surgery.

What is the treatment for bow-leggedness?

The treatment for bow-leggedness, or genu varum, depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. In many cases, especially in infants and young children, bow-leggedness is a normal variation in leg shape that corrects itself as the child grows. However, if bow-leggedness persists beyond a certain age or is caused by an underlying condition, treatment may be necessary. Treatment options may include:

1. Observation: In many cases, especially in young children, bow-leggedness will correct itself as the child grows and begins to bear weight on the legs. Observation by a healthcare professional may be all that is needed.
2. Bracing: In some cases, especially if bow-leggedness is due to Blount’s disease or another growth disorder, bracing may be recommended to help straighten the legs. Bracing is more commonly used in young children who are still growing.
3. Physical therapy: Physical therapy may be recommended to help strengthen the muscles around the knees and improve the alignment of the legs.
4. Surgery: In severe cases of bow-leggedness or if other treatments are not effective, surgery may be recommended to straighten the legs. Surgery is typically reserved for older children or adults.
5. Treatment of underlying conditions: If bow-leggedness is caused by an underlying condition, such as rickets or a bone disorder, treatment of the underlying condition may be necessary to correct the bow-leggedness.

It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan for bow-leggedness. Untreated bow-leggedness can lead to joint pain, arthritis, and other complications, so early intervention is key.