What should you know about extreme knock knees?

Knock knees, also called genu valgum, describe knees that come closer together while the ankles remain apart when standing. Alignment can look different during growth, and some children gradually develop a more typical leg position. Marked or uneven alignment, pain, limping, difficulty running, frequent trips, or a difference between the legs needs closer review. In adults, altered alignment can increase load through parts of the knee and may contribute to fatigue or discomfort.

An examination may include standing and walking assessment, measurements, and imaging when bone alignment needs clarification. The cause and the person’s age matter more than appearance alone.

Book an assessment if the position is pronounced, has appeared suddenly, is getting worse, or affects activity. Keep a note of pain, limping, falls, and whether one side differs from the other. Supportive footwear and strengthening may help function when recommended. For a growing child, Paediatric Physiotherapy can address movement patterns, strength, balance, and activity goals. If bone alignment remains a major functional problem after assessment, an Osteotomy may be discussed; this is a specialist decision, not a home correction.

Seek prompt care for severe pain, inability to bear weight, a newly deformed leg after an injury, rapidly worsening alignment, fever with a hot swollen joint, or new weakness or numbness. Arrange routine orthopaedic review when walking, running, sleep, or daily activities are being affected.

Ask: Is the alignment within the expected range for my age? Is one leg affected more than the other? Are the symptoms coming from the knee, hip, or foot? Would physiotherapy help, and what would make corrective surgery worth considering?