Treatment:

Knock knees are usually not treated.

If the problem is still present after age 7, the child may use a night brace, which is attached to a shoe or orthopedic shoe.

Surgery may be considered for knock knees that persist beyond late childhood and in which the separation between the ankles is severe.

Expectations (prognosis):

Children normally outgrow knock knees without treatment, unless it is caused by a disease. For cases needing surgery, the procedure provides good cosmetic results.

Complications:

• Difficulty walking (very rare)
• Self-esteem changes related to cosmetic appearance of knock knees
• If left untreated, knock knees can lead to early arthritis of the knee

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider to schedule an evaluation if you suspect your child has knock knees.