Genu valgum

Genu valgum, commonly called "knock-knees", is a condition where the knees angle in and touch one another when the legs are straightened. Females have a wider pelvis than men and a relatively shorter length of the thigh bone, and as a result, have a greater static genu valgum than men.^[1] Individuals with severe valgus deformities are typically unable to touch their feet together while simultaneously straightening the legs. The term originates from the Latin genu, "knee", and valgus, "bent inward".^[2] For a discussion of the etymology of valgus, see the entry under varus.

Mild genu valgum can be seen in children from ages 2 to 5, and is often corrected naturally as children grow. However, the condition may continue or worsen with age, particularly when it is the result of a disease, such as rickets or obesity. Idiopathic is the term used to describe genu valgum that is congenital or has no known cause.

Treatment

Generally, there is no known cure for knock knees post-childhood.^{[citation needed]} Contrary to common belief, no amount of orthotic treatment or bodybuilding exercise will straighten knock knees for adults.^{[citation needed]} If the condition persists or worsens into late childhood and adulthood, a corrective osteotomy may be recommended to straighten the legs. This however is more of a cosmetic remedy, and may hamper athletic performance in the future.

Adults with uncorrected genu valgum are typically prone to injury and chronic knee problems such as chondromalacia and osteoarthritis. In some cases, total knee replacement (TKR) surgery may be required later in life to relieve pain and complications resulting from severe genu valgum.

Leg braces are also an alternative for the problem.

Diagnostic test

The Q angle which is formed by a line drawn from the anterosuperior iliac spine through the center of the patella and a line drawn from the center of the patella to the center of the tibial tubercle, should be measured next. In women, the Q angle should be less than 22 degrees with the knee in extension and less than 9 degrees with the knee in 90 degrees of flexion. In men, the Q angle should be less than 18 degrees with the knee in extension and less than 8 degrees with the knee in 90 degrees of flexion.

See also

• Genu varum

References

1. ^ ASICS Technology, Structural Differences
2. ^ "genu valgum. Mosby's Medical Dictionary: Eighth Edition. 2009.". http://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/genu+valgum. Retrieved 2009-10-22. 

External links

• orthoped/495 at eMedicine
• 1697644537 at GPnotebook
• Genu valgum, from Duke University's Wheeless' Textbook of Orthopaedics