Knees Knocking Together: Understanding the Pattern

Knock knees, or genu valgum, describe the knees coming closer together while the ankles remain farther apart. The appearance may be present in childhood, change during growth, or become more noticeable with certain postures and activities. It does not by itself identify the cause of discomfort.

A clinician considers whether both legs are affected, whether the pattern is changing, and whether there is pain at the kneecap, inside of the knee, hip, or ankle. They may observe walking and squatting and assess leg length, joint movement, muscle control, and foot position.

For a child, keep track of whether the alignment is symmetrical and whether running, walking, or play causes pain or tiredness. Do not use braces, wedges, or corrective exercises without advice, because the helpful approach depends on age, flexibility, and the source of the alignment.

For an adult, choose supportive footwear and build activity gradually. Strengthening the hip and thigh can improve control when weakness contributes to the movement, while weight-bearing pain or a persistent change deserves an orthopaedic or physiotherapy review. [Paediatric Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/paediatric-physiotherapy/) may help children with movement assessment.

Book an appointment when the pattern is one-sided, becomes more pronounced, causes pain, limits activity, or is accompanied by limping. Seek urgent help after an injury if there is severe pain, rapid swelling, an obvious deformity, inability to bear weight, or a hot joint with fever.

Ask what part of the leg is driving the alignment, whether growth or joint wear is relevant, and which activities are suitable. Ask how progress will be checked and whether physiotherapy, observation, or a surgical opinion is appropriate. If realignment is discussed, ask what [Osteotomy](/treatments/reconstructive-orthopedic-surgery/osteotomy/) would involve.