Knock Knees (Genu Valgum): Causes, Treatment & Prevention

Your Guide from Amicare’s Centre of Excellence in Orthopaedics

At Amicare, we believe that understanding your body is the first step toward healing. One of the conditions we often treat is knock knees, also known as genu valgum. It’s more common than you might think—especially knock knee in children—and while it often goes away with age, in some cases it may persist. Mild knock knee can be part of natural growth, but untreated or severe cases can lead to pain, joint stress, and posture issues later in life. That’s why early knock knee diagnosis and personalized care matter—and that’s what we provide at Amicare, one of the best hospitals for knock knees in Ghaziabad.

What Are Knock Knees?

Knock knees occur when a person’s knees come together but their ankles stay apart, causing the legs to angle inward. This condition is easy to spot, and is especially common in toddlers and preschoolers. While knock knee in children is often harmless and corrects itself by age 7 or 8, it can continue into adulthood, becoming knock knee in adults, where it may need further attention.

It’s important to understand the difference between bow legs vs knock knees—while bow legs cause the legs to curve outward, knock knees do the opposite.

Common Causes of Knock Knees

There are several causes of knock knees, including:

• Normal Development: Many children go through a natural phase of knock knee in childhood, which usually resolves over time.
• Genetics: A family history of bone alignment issues may increase the chance of developing cross knees or knock knees.
• Injuries: Damage to the growth plate can lead to knock knee correction issues.
• Nutritional Deficiencies: Not getting enough calcium or vitamin D can cause rickets, leading to knock knees.
• Obesity: Being overweight can increase joint stress and cause or worsen knock knees.
• Medical Conditions: Conditions like arthritis and bone disorders can contribute to knock knee in adults.

Who’s at Risk?

You may be more likely to need knock knee treatment in Ghaziabad if you:

• Are a child going through a growth phase
• Have a family history of skeletal issues
• Are overweight
• Have a history of rickets or joint trauma
• Have bone-related conditions like osteoarthritis

Knock Knee Symptoms to Watch Out For

Knock knee symptoms can vary in severity, but some common signs include:

• Knees that touch while ankles stay apart
• Limping or an unusual walk
• Discomfort in the knees, hips, or lower back
• Difficulty running or playing sports
• Worsening alignment over time

How Is Knock Knee Diagnosed?

At Amicare, our specialists perform a detailed  diagnosis which includes:

• Physical Examination: We observe your walk and how your knees align.
• Medical History: We ask about family background and past injuries.
• X-ray or MRI: These show the bone structure and help us plan the right approach.
• Gap Measurement: We measure the space between ankles when the knees are touching.
• Nutrient Testing: If needed, we check calcium and vitamin D levels.

Knock Knees Treatment at Amicare

Treatment depends on age, cause, and severity. Here’s how we approach knock knees treatment in Delhi at Amicare:

1. Observation & Monitoring

In young children, mild knock knee usually goes away with age. We monitor it closely with regular check-ups.

2. Knock Knee Physiotherapy & Exercises

For mild to moderate cases, we recommend  physiotherapy and exercises like squats, lunges, and leg lifts to strengthen muscles and correct alignment.

3. Knock Knee Braces or Orthotics

Custom braces or shoe inserts help support growing bones and gently guide them into better alignment.

4. Nutritional Support

If the cause is rickets or deficiency, we offer vitamin D and calcium supplements to strengthen bones and support knock knees cure.

5. Weight Management

Reducing weight can ease pressure on the knees and help improve knock knees naturally.

6. Knock Knee Surgery in Delhi

In more serious cases, we may suggest non-surgical  treatment options first. If surgery is needed, our orthopaedic surgeons perform:

• Osteotomy: Cutting and repositioning the bone for better alignment
• Guided Growth Surgery: For children, small plates guide bone growth
• Knee Replacement: For adults with arthritis-related knock knees

We make sure you’re fully informed about procedures, including possible surgery side effects and recovery time.

Potential Risks of Ignoring the Condition

Untreated knock knees can lead to:

• Joint pain
• Early arthritis
• Difficulty walking
• Back pain
• Frequent injuries
• Reduced mobility and quality of life

Can Knock Knees Be Prevented?

While not always avoidable, here are some ways to reduce the risk of developing or worsening knock knees:

• Eat Well: Ensure adequate calcium and vitamin D
• Stay Active: Regular movement builds strength and supports joints
• Watch Weight: Keeping a healthy weight reduces knee strain
• Avoid Injuries: Use protective gear when playing sports
• Wear Good Shoes: Supportive footwear helps maintain alignment
• Early Check-ups: Get regular bone and growth assessments for kids

Frequently Asked Questions

1. At what age does the condition appear?Between ages 2 and 5 in children.

2. Will my child outgrow them?

   In many cases, yes—especially mild ones.

3. Are there non-surgical options?

   Absolutely!  Exercises, physiotherapy, and braces can help.

4. What exercises are helpful?

   Squats, lunges, hip abductions, and leg lifts.

5. Can weight loss improve the situation?

   Yes, it significantly reduces joint pressure.

6. When is surgery necessary?

   Only in severe or persistent cases, especially in adults.

7. What’s the recovery time for surgery?

   Depends on the type, but usually a few months with therapy.

8. Can the issue return after treatment?

   It’s possible, especially if the root cause isn’t addressed.

9. Is the condition dangerous?

   Not always, but they can cause joint damage over time if left untreated.

Why Choose Amicare for Knock Knees Treatment?

At Amicare, we’re known for delivering top-quality knock knees treatment in Ghaziabad. Our Centre of Excellence in Orthopaedics combines the latest technology, expert care, and a patient-first approach. Whether you’re seeking non-surgical knock knee treatment, advanced therapy, or surgical correction, we offer a full range of services tailored to your needs.

If you or your child is struggling with this problem, let our team help you find the right solution. Book your consultation today and take the first step toward better mobility with Amicare knock-knees treatment.