🔅 Genu valgum is a condition that affects the alignment of the knees. It is also known as knock-knees, because the knees touch each other but the ankles do not.
– Genu valgum can have various causes, such as developmental, congenital, traumatic, infectious, metabolic, or arthritic.
Some of the common causes are:
• Normal growth variation in young children. Most children between 3 and 5 years old have some degree of genu valgum, which usually corrects itself by the age of 7 or 8.
• Lack of vitamin D and calcium, which can lead to rickets, a disease that affects bone formation and causes deformities.
• Obesity, which can put extra pressure on the knees and worsen the condition.
• Arthritis in the knee joints, which can cause inflammation and damage to the cartilage and bone.
– Genu valgum can cause symptoms such as knee pain, stiffness, limping, and difficulty walking or running. It can also affect the stability and function of the knee joint and increase the risk of injury or degeneration.
– Genu valgum can be diagnosed by physical examination, measuring the angle between the thigh and leg bones (Q angle), and taking X-rays or MRI scans to assess the bone structure.
– The treatment for genu valgum depends on the cause and severity of the condition.
Some of the possible treatments are:
• Observation and reassurance: If the condition is mild and due to normal growth variation, it may resolve on its own without any intervention.
• Supplements and diet: If the condition is caused by vitamin D or calcium deficiency, taking supplements and eating a balanced diet can help improve bone health and correct the deformity.
• Physical therapy and exercise: If the condition is moderate and causes pain or functional impairment, physical therapy and exercise can help strengthen the muscles around the knee joint and improve alignment and mobility.
• Braces or orthotics: If the condition is severe and does not respond to conservative measures, braces or orthotics can be used to correct the alignment of the knee joint and prevent further deformity.
• Surgery: If the condition is very severe and causes significant disability or complications, surgery may be required to realign the bones or replace the damaged joint.
#Summary
– Genu valgum is a common condition that can affect people of different ages and backgrounds. It can have various causes and consequences for the health and function of the knee joint. Depending on the severity of the condition, different treatments may be available to correct it or manage its symptoms.
If you have any concerns about your knee alignment or experience any pain or difficulty with your activities, you should consult your doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
