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Note: This is for informational purposes only. Doctors cannot provide a diagnosis or individual treatment advice via e-mail. Please consult your physician about your specific health care concerns.

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Knock knees - Overview

Alternative Names

Genu valgum

Definition of Knock knees:

Knock knees is a condition in which the lower legs are positioned at an outward angle. When the knees are touching, the ankles are separated.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Most children develop a slight knock-kneed stance by the time they are 2 or 3 years old, often with significant separation at the ankles when the knees are touching. This is part of normal development and often persists through age 5 or 6, at which time the legs begin to straighten fully. By puberty, most children can stand with the knees and ankles touching (without forcing the position).

Knock knees can also develop as a result of a disease, most often one that has already been diagnosed.

  • Reviewed last on: 3/14/2009
  • Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Sass P, Hassan G. Lower extremity abnormalities in children. Am Fam Physician. 2003 Aug 1;68(3):461-8. Review.

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