Knock-knees

What is it?

When a person with knock-knees is standing with their knees together, there’s a large gap between their feet.

Many young children have knock-knees, but their legs straighten by the age of six or seven. Slight knock-knees can continue into adulthood, causing no problems.

When to see your GP

A gap between the ankles greater than 8cm while standing with the knees together requires medical attention. So do other symptoms, such as pain in the knees or difficulty walking.

If you have any concerns about the way your child stands or walks, seek a medical opinion.

What causes knock-knees?

If they develop later in childhood or don’t improve with age, then usually there’s an underlying problem such as:

■ Rickets – problems with bone development from a lack of vitamin D and calcium

■ Excessive pressure on the knees – as a result of obesity or loose knee ligaments

■ An injury or infection affecting the knees or leg bones

■ Genetic conditions affecting the development of the bones or joints

What’s the treatment?

Your GP will examine your legs or your child’s legs and may refer you to an orthopaedic surgeon and arrange an X-ray and blood tests.

In adulthood, knock-knees only need treatment if they’re causing problems. If they are caused by an underlying condition, treatment for this may be necessary.

Adults who suffer from arthritis may benefit from wearing leg braces or special insoles to reduce the strain on their knees.

Surgery for knock-knees is rarely necessary, but it might be recommended if the condition is severe.