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Knock knees

Definition:

In knock knees, the lower legs are at an outward angle, such that when the knees are touching, the ankles are separated.

Alternative Names:

Genu valgum

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 disease processes. Most often the cause has already been diagnosed and the knock knees are recognized as a symptom of the condition.

References:

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

Review Date: 3/5/2007
Reviewed By: Thomas N. Joseph, MD, Private Practice specializing in Orthopaedics, CamdenBone & Joint, Camden, SC. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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