Knock Knees Treatment Bankstown NSW
What Is Knock Knees?
Knock Knees, or Genu Valgum, refers to a condition wherein the knees touch together or “knock” when the legs are straightened.
Knock Knees are very common in babies and infants because of the way their legs are folded while they are in the womb. As they grow and mature, the legs usually straighten and correct themselves.
If this does not occur by the time they are 5 or 6, it is best to get a consultation with our podiatrist.
Signs & Symptoms of Knock Knees
Signs and symptoms include difficulty walking and knee pain, but the best indicator of knock knees would be to get your child to stand up with their knees together and observe if there is an abnormally large gap between their feet and ankles (left and right, not the same leg). It is noticed that children with knock knees also demonstrate pronation of feet, collapsed arches and flatfeet.
Treatment For Knock Knees
Treatment usually involves addressing biomechanical anomalies with the use of orthotics to improve foot alignment and posture which in turn affects the alignment of knees and helps improve patello-femoral position. In conjunction with orthotic therapy, physical therapy is used to maintain strength and knee stability. Other modalities involve braces, strapping and surgery as a last resort.
If you are concerned about your child suffering from knock knees, let us put your mind at ease. At Bankstown Podiatry Clinic, our team of experienced podiatrists can help with a range of conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Cause of Knock Knees?: Many young children have knock knees and they typically straighten out by the age of 6 or 7. Mild knock knees can last into adulthood. Knock knees that develop later in life or don't improve with age can be caused by rickets (problems with bone development due to a lack of vitamin D and calcium), excessive pressure on the knees, or a genetic condition.
Can Knock Knees Be Corrected In Adults?: If your knock knees are severe and causing pain or interfering with movement, you should book an appointment with a Bankstown podiatrist. While it most likely can not be corrected, we will be able to explore suitable treatment options with you such as custom orthotics to stop your feet from rolling inward.
Is Knock Knees Bad?: From 24 months to 4 years of age, knock knees are completely normal and should begin to correct themselves between the ages of 4 and 7. If your child has a severe case of knock knees or it does not correct itself past the age of 7, you should book an appointment with a podiatrist to correct the issue and prevent problems later in life like early-onset arthritis.