Bowed legs is a condition that commonly affects children. The condition involves a noticeable outward bend of one or both legs, and this is more evident when the child is walking. Oftentimes the condition will self-correct as the child grows, but sometimes more hands-on treatment is necessary. Here’s a closer look at the causes, symptoms treatment options for bowed legs. If you would like to learn more about bowed legs and the various treatment options available, contact our Atlanta foot and ankle clinic today!
Causes and Symptoms of Bowed Legs
Bowed legs are either caused by a genetic variation of the normal bone development, or as a result of another condition. When the condition is caused by the abnormal bone development known as physiologic genu varum, the bowing effect tends to improve around 18 months of age, and by ages 3 or 4, the legs typically have a normal appearance. However, bowed legs can also be a side effect of other conditions, like Blount’s disease or rickets. Blount’s disease is a condition caused by an abnormality in the growth plate in the upper part of the shinbone, while rickets is a bone disease that can lead to bone deformities.
- A visible outward curve of the legs.
- An awkward walking pattern.
- In some cases, intoeing of toes occurs on the leg that is bowed.
- There may be some discomfort, but bowed legs typically do not cause pain.
- A child with bowed legs may also trip more than the average toddler.
Diagnosing and Treating Bowed Legs
Bowed legs can be diagnosed by a physical examination from a doctor or orthopedic specialist. If your child is under the age of two, in good health and has symmetrical bowing in the legs, odds are no further tests will be needed. If one leg is more bowed than the other, or if your doctor suspects that a different condition may be causing the abnormal curvature, they may order an X-ray. An x-ray of your child’s legs in the standing position can reveal the existence of Blount’s disease or rickets.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the bowing. As we’ve mentioned above, if the problem is caused by physiologic genu varum, the condition almost always self-corrects by the age of four. Your child’s pediatrician or orthopedic specialist will just monitor the condition as your child continues to grow. If the condition is caused by Blount’s disease, treatment often involves simple bracing. If bowing is caused by rickets, your child will likely be given medications to counteract the bone disease.
If bowed legs are still present after four years of age for any of the above reasons, surgery may be recommended. There are two main types of surgeries to fix the bowing. They are known as a guided growth operation and a tibial osteotomy operation. Guided growth involves stopping the growth on the healthy side of the shinbone so the abnormal side can catch up, while a tibial osteotomy involves cutting the shinbone below the knee and reshaping it to correct the alignment. Hardware is inserted to ensure the bone grows in the proper direction.
After surgery, a cast will be fitted while the bone heals. Your child will then transfer to crutches, and eventually physical therapy will start to restore strength and range of motion.