What to expect from paediatric physiotherapy for bow legs

Bow legs, also called genu varum, can be part of normal development, but the pattern, age and symptoms matter. The physiotherapist may watch your child walk, check hip, knee and ankle movement, compare both legs and look at balance and muscle control. Therapy can improve movement habits, strength and confidence, but exercises do not directly straighten every bony alignment. The clinician may coordinate assessment with a paediatrician or orthopaedic specialist when the pattern needs further investigation.

Bring comfortable clothing and any previous reports or imaging. The therapist may demonstrate playful activities such as stepping, balance tasks or strengthening that fit the child’s age. Practise the agreed activities in short, manageable periods and stop if pain increases. Avoid forcing the knees into a new position or buying braces without professional advice. Keep track of limping, fatigue, falls and changes in activity so the programme can be adjusted.

Arrange medical review if bowing is marked on one side, becomes more noticeable, causes pain, produces a limp or affects walking endurance. Seek prompt care after an injury with severe pain, swelling or inability to bear weight. Tell the therapist about night pain, fever or a child who seems unwell, because these findings need medical assessment rather than an exercise change alone.

Ask whether the alignment fits your child’s age, whether both legs are developing similarly, and what signs would lead to imaging or specialist review. Ask how often to practise, which activities to avoid, and how progress will be measured during walking, play and daily tasks.