Knock knee is a syndrome among kids and toddlers wherein the knees are bent inwards, but the ankles remain spaced out. It is very common among kids and is found around the age of 4-6 years. The syndrome is scientifically termed Genu Valgum, and it is common in girls as compared to boys.

Knock knees are often viewed to be a part of a child’s growth. They are quite common, but special attention needs to be given in case of the condition worsens. If older toddlers develop this condition, they might have to carry it for the rest of their lives. Thus, it is important to analyze the symptoms and get them treated just in time.

There are two types, pathological and physiological.

Knock knees are visible in three stages of a child’s development:

In the infant years: Knock knees aren’t quite apparent, and the condition isn’t that serious. Proper, timely massages and stretches can heal the condition completely.

In the toddlers: This is when knock knees become apparent. They can be diagnosed and treated in case of any extreme condition. Doctors often suggest some non-surgical ways of treatment in these years.

Among adolescents: If knock knees are diagnosed among adolescents, it could be an issue. This is when the non-surgical ways do not work effectively, and a child might have to undergo some surgery. If the case isn’t treated on time, the child will be expected to carry the condition for the rest of his/her life.

Knock knees are distinguished into two types: Pathologic and Physiologic. While Physiologic is most common, Pathologic can be caused due to fractures or bone and cartilage disorders.

Knock knees are caused due to inward bent in the knees that help the child while walking. It provides support, and thus, it is very common. But if the condition isn’t treated on time, it can worsen and steady for the years to come.

Other causes of knock knees are as follows:

• Skeletal dysplasias or metabolic bone diseases like rickets are some common genetic disorders that can cause knock knees in children.
• Obesity can affect the knee structure by putting excessive pressure on the knees.
• Any unexplained, untreated injury, especially growth plate injury, can cause further issues in the knees.
• Kidney failure or bone infections can, too, cause the disorder.

It is, therefore, important to look for minor symptoms and undertake a knock knee treatment in time.

One of the most common and visible symptoms of the disease is the unstructured legs that arere-bent inwards at the knee. This result in a huge gap between the shin areas.

Other symptoms could include:

• Extreme pain in the joints, especially in the knees
• Foot or ankle pain, instability
• Limping
• Hip pain and difficulty while walking or running.

We at Saqsham Ortho are known for orthopaedic treatment and diagnosis. In case of such doubtful conditions, be sure to visit us and get fine-knock knee treatment in Delhi.

While diagnosis, we comply with a few set rules. We first look at the condition and try to analyze how serious it is. The more the distance between the ankles, the more severe the condition.

For a child below 7 years of age, we undertake the following diagnosis.

• BMI is calculated
• Height and weight are measured
• Leg lengths are diagnosed
• The child’s walking pattern is inspected.

In the case of an older child, we recommend an X-ray for proper determination. If the child doesn’t have a problem walking, running or jumping, we often suggest some home remedies and medicines to treat the condition at home.

Knock Knee treatment must be undertaken at a good hospital. Many good hospitals and doctors wouldn’t recommend any specific treatment if the child isn’t undergoing obvious pain. We often suggest regular exercise and the use of supportive braces and shoes if the child is diagnosed with the issue.

Proper diet, exercises, massages and medicines can treat the disease without having to undergo surgery. Certain Vitamin D supplements and calcium supplements are, most of the time, enough for a child.

Rickets is a common cause of the syndrome, and thus, we focus on treating rickets before undertaking any major surgery.

Surgical method:

A surgical method has to be undertaken in case of extreme conditions. It is mainly undertaken in a child over 7 years of age. Two kinds of surgeries can be undertaken depending on the severity of the issue and the condition of the child.

• Guided Growth surgery

Under a guided growth surgery, the knees are provided external support in order to grow in perfect shape and regain their original structure. Metal implants are used in this case, and they are usually removed after a 12-month period.

With time, the knees appear straighter and in shape. The child will be able to bear the weight of these metal implants. It is often undertaken in a kid who is around 12-13 years of age.

A child might be recommended to continue the use of braces and other supports, but only for a limited period. With the implants, the child must be able to carry out his/her daily activities without any irritations or hesitations.

• Osteotomy surgery

This is a serious type of surgery, in which the child will have to bear a few cuts and stitches. The knees, in this case, are opened and realigned to fit the straight pattern.

The surgery is undertaken in extreme cases that cannot be fixed by the guided growth method. The child requires sufficient aftercare for about 6-8 weeks. He/she will have to use crutches and will have to refrain from strenuous tasks for a few weeks.

Lifting weights, running, and jumping are strictly prohibited after the surgery. The child can return to his/her sporty activities after a period of six months.

Knee knocks shouldn’t be a serious issue if it is treated in time. Timely measures can save you further hassles. Be sure to contact us at Saqsham Ortho and get expert opinions and the best quality knock-knee treatment in Delhi today.

At Saqsham, we care for your well-being and strive to bring you the best orthopaedic care and solutions. If your child is experiencing any such issues and would like to get a medical opinion,
we’d suggest you book an appointment.