What are the treatment options for knock knees?

Knock knees, also called genu valgum, describe an inward angle of the legs when standing. Some alignment patterns change as a child grows, while others persist or develop because of bone, joint or growth-plate factors. Age, symmetry, pain, walking pattern and the measured alignment help guide care.

Physiotherapy may address strength, balance, movement habits and tasks that are difficult. It does not replace an assessment of the bones when the alignment itself needs measuring. A clinician may monitor growth and review the position over time rather than prescribe treatment immediately.

Book an assessment if the knees are painful, one side looks different, walking is affected, or the alignment is becoming more noticeable. Bring information about when it began, falls or injuries, fatigue, and any effect on sports or school activities. Follow a prescribed home programme and avoid forcing the legs into a corrected position.

If alignment is significant, persistent or linked with functional problems, an orthopaedic specialist may discuss osteotomy. This operation changes the angle of a bone to improve limb alignment; whether it is appropriate depends on skeletal maturity and the source of the deformity.

Seek prompt review for sudden pain and swelling, inability to walk, a new deformity after injury, fever with a swollen joint, or rapidly changing alignment. Arrange a routine appointment for persistent pain, limping, repeated falls or difficulty keeping up with normal activities.

Ask whether the alignment is within an expected growth pattern, how it should be measured, whether physiotherapy could help function, and what changes would lead to imaging or surgery.