What to expect from paediatric physiotherapy for knock knees

Knock knees, or genu valgum, describe the way the knees angle toward each other when standing. The physiotherapist may look at leg symmetry, hip and ankle position, walking pattern, balance, flexibility and muscle control. They may ask about pain, tripping, tiredness and activities your child avoids. Therapy can address functional difficulties and movement control, while the underlying bone alignment may need observation or review by a medical specialist.

Choose clothing that allows easy movement and let the therapist see the child’s usual walking or running if requested. Home activities may use stepping, balance, climbing or strengthening games. Keep practice enjoyable and follow the prescribed amount; more effort is not always better. Support comfortable participation in play, and record pain, falls, limping or changes in stamina for the next appointment.

Arrange review if the knees are increasingly painful, the alignment is clearly different from side to side, walking becomes difficult or a limp develops. Seek prompt care after an injury causing swelling, severe pain or inability to bear weight. Fever, night pain or a child who seems unwell should be discussed with a doctor rather than managed with exercises alone.

Ask whether the alignment is expected for your child’s stage of growth, whether both legs are similar, and what changes warrant imaging or referral. Ask which activities build control, how to handle discomfort, and how progress will be checked in everyday movement.