Slight Knock Knees in Adults

Knock knees, also called genu valgum, describe knees that angle inward when the legs are straight. A mild alignment difference may cause no symptoms. In other people, it can alter how the hips, knees, ankles, and feet share load during standing, stairs, or walking. An examination considers both legs, movement, strength, joint stability, and the history of symptoms.

In adults, a new or progressively changing alignment is more useful to investigate than appearance alone. Pain, stiffness, swelling, or reduced function helps determine whether the knee or another joint needs attention.

If there is no pain or loss of function, monitoring and maintaining general leg strength may be all that is needed. When symptoms are present, physiotherapy can work on hip and knee control, balance, walking mechanics, and activities that aggravate the joint. Supportive footwear or activity changes may also be considered after an assessment.

Surgery is not the starting point for every mild alignment concern. Osteotomy is a procedure that changes bone alignment and is considered only after a specialist evaluation of symptoms, joint loading, and overall leg structure. Paediatric Physiotherapy is designed for children; adults should ask for an adult-focused assessment if needed.

Arrange a clinical review if the alignment is changing, one side looks different from the other, pain or swelling persists, the knee gives way, or walking and stairs become harder. Seek prompt care after an injury that causes inability to bear weight, major swelling, deformity, or a numb or cold foot. A clinician can decide whether examination or imaging is appropriate.

Ask whether the alignment is within your normal structure, which symptoms may be linked to it, whether targeted strengthening could help, and what changes should prompt a follow-up review.