What are bowlegs and knock-knees?
Babies and young children often have knees and legs that
look awkward. Two types of problems at this age are bowlegs
and knock-knees. Both of these are fairly common in babies
and young children.
A child has bowlegs, if when the ankles touch, the knees are
wide apart. With knock-knees the lower legs angle out, so
that the ankles are far apart when the knees touch. Bowlegs
are very easy to see at 12 to 18 months when your child
starts to stand and walk. Standing and walking helps the
legs to straighten. Knock-knees usually are noticed later
between the ages of 3 and 6.
What is the cause?
A baby's legs are folded up before they are born. This can
cause them to be bowlegged at first. Severely bowed legs
can be caused by rickets or Blount's disease. Both are rare
conditions. Rickets is typically caused by not getting
enough or being able to properly use vitamin D. Blount's
disease is a condition that affects the tibia, which is a
bone in the lower leg.
The most common cause of knock knees is a result of
overcorrection of bowlegs. This is common and normal
between 3 and 5 years of age. There may be other problems
that can cause bowlegs or knock-knees, including problems
with the bones, kidneys, infections, and injuries.
How long does it last?
The bowlegs are usually gone by age 2. At this point most
children start to have a slight knock-kneed look. It is a
normal part of development. The legs begin to straighten out
at age 5 or 6 as your child grows. The legs will typically
look normal by age 7 to 10. During the early teenage years,
your child will usually be able to stand normally with the
knees and ankles touching.
What is the treatment?
Most children will outgrow knock-knees and bowlegs without
the need of any special treatments. However, in severe
cases, your provider may want your child to see a bone
specialist called an orthopedist.
In rare cases surgery may be recommended, especially if the
problem continues as your child grows older. Sometimes
braces or special shoes to help straighten the legs may be
used, although not all providers think this treatment is
necessary.
When should I call my child's health care provider?
Call your child's health care if you have questions or
concerns about your child's legs.
Your child should see a health care provider by age of 2 if:
the bowing is getting worse or one leg is bowed more than
the other
your child is having increasing pain or problems because
of the shape of the legs
your child has severe intoeing (toes pointing in when
walking)
your child is unusually short or has problems standing up
straight.
