A condition known as bowlegs, also called genu varum, occurs when the lower legs curve outward at the knees, resulting in a gap between the lower legs. People of any age can develop bowlegs, but they are more common among children, especially toddlers who are learning to walk. Although bowlegs may be a natural part of growth, they are also a sign of medical conditions affecting the bones, joints, or muscles.
Bowlegs can have different causes depending on the age and health of the person. Some of the possible causes are:
As babies grow and start to walk, their legs gradually straighten out as a result of their position in the womb. Normal growth: Many babies are born with bowlegs because of their position in the womb. Children who have persistent or severe bowlegs may need medical attention, but it is usually a harmless process that resolves by the age of 3 or 4.
It occurs when a child lacks vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate, which are essential for bone growth and strength, which leads to rickets. As a result, rickets can result in weakened and soft bones, leading to bowlegs and other deformities. Vitamin D and calcium can be incorporated into the diet or supplemented to treat and prevent rickets.
It is a rare condition that affects the growth of the shin bone (tibia) in children and adolescents. There is no known cause of Blount's disease. It may be caused by genetics, obesity, or injury. The bone grows abnormally, leading to bowlegs and other problems. Depending on the severity and age of the patient, Blount's disease can be treated with surgery or braces.
The condition arthritis causes inflammation and damage to the joints and can affect anyone, but is more common in older people. Symptoms of arthritis include pain, stiffness, and swelling in the knees, which can result in bowlegs and other changes in leg alignment. Based on the severity and type of arthritis, it may be managed with medication, physical therapy, or surgery.
Bowlegs can also be caused by injury or infection, especially when the growth plates of the bones in children are affected. A growth plate is a cartilage section at the ends of a bone that allows it to grow and lengthen. Damaged or infected growth plates can result in uneven bone growth or stop it altogether, resulting in bowlegs or other deformities. Treatment depends on the cause and extent of the injury or infection, including antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, or surgery.
In bowlegs, the lower legs curve outward at the knees, creating a gap between the lower legs when the feet are together. This may affect how a person walks, runs, or stands.
Pain or discomfort in the knees, hips, ankles, or feet
Difficulty walking, running, or jumping
Reduced mobility or range of motion in the legs
Increased wear and tear on the joints and cartilage
Low self-esteem or confidence due to the appearance of the legs
A medical history and physical examination can be used to diagnose bowlegs. The doctor will measure the distance between the knees and ankles when the feet are together and look for any signs of underlying conditions that may cause bowlegs. Some tests may also be ordered by the doctor, such as:
X-rays: X-rays are images that show the structure and shape of the bones. They can help to determine the degree and cause of bowlegs, and rule out any fractures or infections.
Blood tests: Blood tests can help to check for any nutritional deficiencies, such as vitamin D or calcium, or any signs of inflammation, such as arthritis.
Genetic tests: Genetic tests can help to identify any inherited disorders that may cause bowlegs, such as Blount's disease.
The treatment of bowlegs depends on the cause, severity, and age of the patient. Some of the possible treatments are:
The doctor may advise waiting and watching if bowlegs are mild and a result of normal growth. Over time, the legs may straighten out on their own. Additionally, the doctor may recommend monitoring the child's growth and development in order to look for any signs of complications or worsening.
The doctor may prescribe braces or casts to correct bowlegs caused by rickets or Blount's disease if the bowlegs are moderate. Usually, braces or casts are worn for several months or years depending on the condition and response to treatment. They are designed to apply gentle pressure to straighten the bones around the legs.
Surgery: To correct severe bowlegs caused by rickets, Blount's disease, arthritis, injury, or infection, the doctor may recommend surgery. In most cases, surgery involves cutting and reshaping bones, inserting metal rods or plates to hold them in place, or replacing damaged joints with artificial ones. performed when the child is older or when the condition is not responsive to other treatments.
Bowlegs can be prevented or reduced by taking some measures, such as:
Ensuring adequate intake of vitamin D and calcium, either through diet or supplements, especially for pregnant women, infants, and children
Avoiding obesity or excessive weight gain, which can put extra stress on the legs and joints
Protecting the legs from injury or infection, by wearing appropriate footwear, clothing, and protective gear
Seeking medical attention if there are any signs of bowlegs or underlying conditions, such as pain, swelling, or difficulty walking
