Bow Legs Private Treatment for Children (Genu Varum)

What is Genu Varum or Bow Legs?

Genu varum (bow legs) is a condition in which the legs curve outward at the knees, leaving a gap between the knees when the feet are together. This outward curvature is often visible when a child stands or walks. While genu varum is commonly seen in young children and typically resolves naturally, in some cases, persistent bowing can indicate a more serious issue requiring orthopaedic treatment.

Is Genu Varum Normal in Children?

Yes, bow legs in children are often a normal developmental stage, particularly in infants and toddlers. As the child grows and begins to walk, the legs usually straighten on their own by age two to three. However, if the bowing remains beyond this age, it may be necessary to consult a specialist to rule out underlying conditions.

What Causes Bow Legs?

The causes of bow legs in children can range from natural development to more serious conditions, including:

• Natural growth: In most cases, bow legs correct naturally as a child grows.

• Blount’s disease: A condition that affects the growth of the tibia (shinbone), causing progressive bowing.

• Rickets: A vitamin D deficiency that weakens the bones, leading to leg deformities. Vitamin D is essential in bone strength and without this essential nutrient, the bones become softer and weaker causing the bone to bow.

• Genetics: A family history of bow legs may also play a role.

What is Blount’s Disease?

Blount’s disease (tibia vara) is a growth disorder affecting the top of the shin bone, causing it to curve outward and leading to worsening bow legs. It can appear in early childhood or adolescence and may require early medical intervention to prevent further complications. If untreated, surgery might be necessary to correct the deformity. It is more common in overweight children and certain ethnicities.

When Should I Worry About My Child’s Bowed Legs?

While most cases of bow legs resolve naturally, there are certain signs that parents should watch for. You should seek medical advice if:

• Your child’s bow legs persist beyond age three.

• The bowing worsens over time.

• The child experiences pain or difficulty walking.

• One leg appears more bowed than the other.

Consulting a specialist ensures timely assessment and, if necessary, intervention to prevent long-term issues.

Symptoms of Bow Legs

Common symptoms of genu varum in children include:

• Visible outward curvature of the legs which is more noticeable when walking

• A gap between the knees when standing with feet together

• Difficulty walking or running

• Pain in the legs, although this is less common

At What Age is Genu Varum Commonly Seen?

Genu varum is most commonly seen in children between the ages of one and two. The condition usually resolves by age three without intervention. If the bowing persists or worsens beyond this age, a medical evaluation may be needed.

At What Age Should Bow Legs Be Corrected?

If bow legs do not straighten by age three, or if the condition worsens, parents should consult a paediatric orthopaedic surgeon.  It may be a sign of an underlying condition which may require further investigation with imaging or blood tests.

Diagnosis and Tests for Bow Legs

A detailed history and thorough clinical examination will be performed in order to ensure a correct diagnosis is obtained. Your child’s legs will be observed when standing and also their walking will be assessed. If they are older than 2 years and have evidence of bow legs, further tests may be carried out. Imaging such as X-rays to view your child’s bones may be undertaken as well as blood tests to measure vitamin D levels.

Can Genu Varum Be Corrected?

Yes, genu varum can often be corrected with appropriate treatment. In babies and toddlers, bow legs typically resolve on their own without any treatment. Older children may require intervention, especially if the bowing is severe or due to an underlying condition like Blount’s disease.

Bow Leg Correction Options in Children

The treatment options for bow leg correction in children depend on the cause and severity of the condition. These can include both non-surgical and surgical approaches.

Can You Correct Bow Legs Without Surgery?

In mild cases, bow legs in children can correct without surgery. Non-surgical treatments may include:

• Bracing: Braces may support the leg and help correct the alignment.

• Orthotics: Custom shoe inserts may help support any foot problems during growth.

• Monitoring: In many cases, simply monitoring the child’s development may be sufficient.

• Rickets: Vitamin D replacement will help strengthen bones and this may all that is necessary.

Can Physiotherapy Cure Bow Legs?

While physiotherapy alone cannot cure bow legs, it can strengthen the muscles surrounding the legs and improve overall posture. Physiotherapy is often used alongside other treatments, to help support leg alignment and enhance recovery.

Surgical Treatment for Correction of Bow Legs

In severe cases of bow legs, surgery may be indicated to prevent further deformity or damage to the knee. Options include:

• Guided growth: The paediatric orthopaedic surgeons places a small metal plate commonly at the top of the outside of the shin bone (tibia) but in some cases on the outside of the end of the thigh bone (femur). This slows down the growth on the healthy side of the bone to allow the unhealthy side of the growth plate to catch up. This uses natural growth to help correct the bow legs. The plate is then removed after the alignment has improved.

• Tibial Osteotomy: This is a more invasive procedure and reserved for severe cases of genu varum or in cases where the child has stopped growing. An osteotomy is a cut across the shin bone to help reshape the bone to correct the alignment. It is then help with either plates and screws or a metal frame outside the leg.

When to Consider Private Bow Leg Treatment in Children

If your child’s bow legs persist or worsen, considering private orthopaedic treatment can provide faster access to a paediatric orthopaedic surgeon. This ensures early diagnosis and treatment, minimising the risk of long-term complications.

Benefits of Private Treatment for Bow Legs in Children

• Faster access to paediatric orthopaedic specialists

• Bespoke, child-specific treatment plans

• Access to well-equipped hospitals and imaging departments

• Flexible appointment scheduling and shorter waiting times

What are the Costs Associated with Private Treatment for Bow Legs in Children?

The cost of private treatment for bow legs can vary based on the type of treatment needed. Non-surgical interventions like bracing or physiotherapy are generally more affordable, while surgical procedures may be more expensive. A consultation with a private paediatric orthopaedic surgeons will provide a detailed breakdown of the expected costs.

Private Bow Leg Treatment in Children – What to Expect

When opting for private treatment for bow legs, the process typically begins with a thorough consultation and assessment by a paediatric orthopaedic consultant. After diagnosis, a personalised treatment plan will be developed, which may include non-surgical options or, in severe cases, surgery.

Does Bow Leg Correction Increase Height?

In some cases, correcting bow legs can lead to a slight increase in height. This is due to the legs being straightened, allowing the child to stand taller. However, the primary goal of treatment is to correct the leg alignment, with height increase being a secondary benefit.

How Long Will It Take for My Child’s Legs to Heal After Bow Leg Correction Surgery?

Recovery time after bow leg correction surgery varies, but most children can expect to resume normal activities within a few months. Your paediatric orthopaedic consultant will provide a detailed recovery plan to ensure proper healing.

FURTHER INFORMATION:

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