Knock Knees

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Topic at a Glance

Knock knees (genu valgum) is a condition where the knees angle inward, which may cause knee pain, alignment issues, and changes in walking patterns.
The condition is common in children, and many cases resolve naturally. Persistent or worsening cases may require medical evaluation.
Symptoms can include knee pain, joint stiffness, instability, and related issues like flat feet or an altered gait.
Treatment ranges from observation and physical therapy to bracing or surgical correction in more severe deformities.

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Knock knees (also known as knock knee syndrome or genu valgum) is a condition where the knees angle in and touch each other when the legs are straightened. This knock-kneed deformity can lead to knee pain, altered gait, and other knee problems if not properly addressed.

At JIS Orthopedics in New Albany and St. Clairsville, Ohio, we specialize in diagnosing and treating various orthopedic conditions, including knock knees. Contact one of our offices today!

What Are Knock Knees?

Knock knees are characterized by an inward angling of the knees, resulting in the knees touching or nearly touching when the legs are straight.

Temporarily knocked knees are relatively common in young children and are a normal part of development during the early years as children grow. In many cases, this is referred to as idiopathic genu valgum, meaning it develops without a known cause. However, if it persists into adolescence or adulthood, or progresses into more severe deformities, it may require medical attention.

Knock knees are the opposite of bow leg alignment, where the knees stay apart, and the ankles come closer together.

How to Identify Knock Knees

Identifying knock knees is usually straightforward. If a child stands with their legs straight so that their knees touch, they are likely to be knock-kneed if there is a noticeable gap between their ankles. In some cases, the condition may be more noticeable in one knee or affect one leg more than the other. Additionally, if you experience the following symptoms, you may have knock knees:

Discomfort in the knees
Stiff or sore joints
Knee instability
Difficulty walking, although this is rare.

In addition to the signs above, there may be other symptoms associated with knock knees, including changes in foot posture, such as flat feet, which can further affect alignment and walking patterns.

If you have noticed these symptoms, it’s important to get your knock knees diagnosed by a medical professional.

Causes of Knock Knees

Several factors can contribute to the development of knock knees:

Arthritis, particularly in the knee
Benign bone tumors in the knee
Bone infection (osteomyelitis)
Congenital (inborn) and genetic conditions
Fractures that heal with deformities (malunions)
Growth plate injuries
Metabolic diseases
Physical trauma or injury
Renal (kidney) failure
Rickets (a bone disease caused by a lack of vitamin D)

Being overweight or obese can also put extra pressure on the knees and contribute to knock knees.

How Do Knock Knees Affect You?

Knock knees can have several effects on your overall health and well-being. These can include:

Altered Gait: Walking with knock knees can cause an abnormal gait, leading to discomfort and balance issues.
Joint Pain: The misalignment shifts weight toward the inner side of the knee, placing extra stress on the joint and altering the leg’s mechanical axis, which can also affect the outer side of the joint over time.
Increased Risk of Arthritis: The altered biomechanics of your legs can increase the likelihood of arthritis in the knee.
Reduced Mobility: Severe knock knees can limit your ability to move freely and participate in physical activities.

How Are Knock Knees Diagnosed?

The diagnosis will begin by considering your medical and family history. Then your orthopedic surgeon will conduct a physical examination.

The physical exam involves checking the position of the ankles while the legs are straight and the knees are touching each other. They will also look at the way you walk. They may also use an X-ray to confirm the diagnosis and identify where the deformity originates.

How is Knock Knee Treated?

Treatment for knock knees depends on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. Common treatment options include:

Observation: Most children with mild cases will resolve without intervention as the child’s legs continue to grow and develop.
Bracing: In mild cases, wearing a brace can help guide proper knee alignment and support the legs.
Physical Therapy: Targeted physical therapy exercises can be given to strengthen the leg muscles around the knee joint to help improve alignment and reduce discomfort.
Medication: For conditions like rickets, treating the underlying cause with supplements or medication, such as vitamin D, can correct the condition.
Surgery: In severe cases, especially in adults, surgical intervention may be necessary to correct the alignment of the knees. This may involve reshaping or repositioning the femur or tibia, sometimes using metal implants to stabilize the bones during healing.

At JIS Orthopedics, our specialized team offers comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plans to address knock-knee syndrome and improve your quality of life. We utilize the latest techniques and technologies to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.

Get Expert Help for Knock Knees

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of knock knees, don’t wait to seek help. Early intervention can prevent further complications and improve your mobility. JIS Orthopedics is dedicated to providing top-quality orthopedic care in New Albany and St. Clairsville, OH.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards better knee health. Our experienced team is here to guide you through every step of your treatment journey, ensuring personalized care tailored to your needs.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Alexander G. Athey

Are knock knees normal in children?

Yes, knock knees are common in young children and are often part of normal development. This is typically referred to as idiopathic genu valgum and usually resolves on its own by around age 7. If the condition persists beyond this age, it should be evaluated.

Can knock knees cause knee pain?

Yes, knock knees can lead to knee pain due to uneven pressure on the joints. Over time, this misalignment may also contribute to other knee problems, including discomfort in the hips and ankles.

Can knock knees be corrected without surgery?

Yes, many cases can be managed without surgery. Treatments such as physical therapy, bracing, and addressing underlying conditions can improve alignment and reduce symptoms.

What does surgery for knock knees involve?

Surgical correction is typically reserved for more severe deformities. Procedures may involve realigning the bones to improve knee positioning and function. Your orthopedic specialist will determine the best approach based on your condition.

Will untreated knock knees get worse over time?

In some cases, yes. Untreated knock knees, especially more severe deformities, can lead to chronic knee pain, joint damage, and an increased risk of arthritis.

Sources

https://www.hss.edu/health-library/conditions-and-treatments/list/knock-knee
https://www.hss.edu/health-library/conditions-and-treatments/surgery-knock-knee-correction-adults

Treat Your Knee Pain Today

Arthritis of the knee can be very painful and debilitating, but with proper diagnosis and treatment, it can often be managed successfully. If you suspect knee joint arthritis, schedule an appointment with JIS Orthopedics today! We have offices located in New Albany and St. Clairsville.