Knock knees

When to seek medical advice

Knock knees in children aren't usually a cause for concern and should improve as your child gets older.

However, visit your GP if:

the gap betweentheankles is greater than 8cm while standing with the knees together
there's a big difference between the angle of the lower legs when standingcomparedwith the upper legs
theproblem seems to be getting worse
a childunderthe age of twoor over the age of sevenhas knock knees
only one leg is affected
there are other symptoms, such as knee pain ordifficulty walking
you have any other concerns about the way your child stands or walks
you develop knock knees in adulthood

Your GP will examine your or your child's legs, ask about anypain or walking difficulties,and may take some measurements.

Theymay refer you to an orthopaedic surgeon (a specialist in bone and joint problems) andarrange an X-ray of your legs and blood tests to check for underlying problems.

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018

Articles for knock knees

Introduction

Read about knock knees, a common condition in which there's a large gap between the feet while standing with your legs together. Find out about the symptoms, causes and treatments.

S ymptoms of knock knees

Ifsomeone with knock knees stands with their knees together, their lower legs will be spread out so their feet and ankles are further apart than normal. A small distance between the ankles is normal,

When to seek medical advice

Knock knees in children aren't usually a cause for concern and should improve as your child gets older. However, visit your GP if: the gap betweentheankles is greater than 8cm while standing with t

What causes knock knees?

Knock knees are fairlycommon in healthy children under the ages of six or seven, and are just a normal part of growth and development. The legs will normally gradually straighten as the child grows,

Treatments forknock knees

In most cases, knock knees don't need to be treated because the problem tends to correct itself as a child grows. Your child doesn't need to avoid physical activity, wear supportive leg braces or sho

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