The Medical Term for Bow Legs

Genu refers to the knee and varum describes the direction of the angulation. The term identifies an alignment pattern; by itself, it does not explain the cause, severity or effect on walking.

With genu varum, the lower limbs angle outward around the knee region when viewed from the front. The opposite alignment is genu valgum, often called knock knees, where the knees approach each other while the ankles remain farther apart.

A clinical note may describe unilateral or bilateral genu varum. Unilateral means one side; bilateral means both sides. Other wording may identify whether the angulation comes mainly from the femur, tibia or several parts of the limb. These details help guide examination and planning.

Focus on the clinical findings that accompany the label. Note pain location, changes in walking, limits during work or sport, and whether the alignment looks equal on both sides. For a child, record changes as growth and movement skills develop.

Assessment may include standing alignment, joint motion, leg rotation, foot position and gait. Imaging is not automatically required for every bowed-leg appearance; the clinician decides whether it would clarify the structure or support treatment planning.

Arrange care for increasing or one-sided bowing, persistent knee or ankle pain, instability, a new limp, or reduced ability to manage usual activities. In a growing child, a curve that does not follow the expected developmental pattern also needs review.

Urgent evaluation is appropriate after a significant injury or when there is sudden inability to bear weight, a hot swollen joint, fever with limb pain, numbness, or a foot that becomes pale or cold. These warning signs matter independently of the genu varum label.

Ask whether genu varum is simply a description or a diagnosis linked to a specific cause in your case. You can also ask which bone or joint contributes to the alignment, whether it is changing, how function will be followed, and what findings would alter the management plan.