Diagnostic test for knock knees and bow legs
Physiologic valgus
Our leading paediatric consultants can diagnose and treat knock knees and bow legs
About physiologic valgus
While most children grow out these conditions, symptoms could also be a sign of rickets or osteoperosis. When testing for bow legs and knock knees, your consultant will examine your child's legs and carry out a physical examination.
Need to know
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How do you test for bowlegs or knock knees? icon plus
The most effective way to test for bow legs is a visible assessment. When a child stands with straight legs and toes pointed forward, the consultant will see if your knees are too far apart. Your consultant will also ask your child to walk up and down to see how rotated the knees are. If just one of the legs is bowed, they may order an X-ray of the lower legs to rule out bone deformities.
With knock knees, a visible assessment is also carried out. Your consultant will assess whether your child's feet and ankles are further apart than usual. They'll also compare the angle of the lower leg and the upper leg. -
How to prepare icon plus
No preparation is needed. Your consultant will explain the procedure and answer any questions you may have. -
After the assessment icon plus
If your child has knock knees or bow legs, they are likely to grow out of it. If your consultant thinks there may be an underlying health condition such as rickets, they may order more tests.
If the problems persist, your consultant may recommend surgery. This could involve inserting guided growth implants, which help straighten and realign your child's leg as they grow. In severe cases, your child may need an osteotomy. Here, a wedge of bone is removed and the leg is realigned with metal implants. Both these procedures can be used to align knock knees too.
Our knee consultants
Our locations
From complex orthopaedic surgery to tests and procedures for adult and childhood conditions, we provide exceptional care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
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The Wellington Hospital
Wellington Place
St John's Wood
London NW8 9LE
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The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road
London
SW1W 8RH
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The Princess Grace Hospital
42-52 Nottingham Place
London W1U 5NY
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Chelsea Outpatients
272 & 280 Kings Road
London SW3 5AW
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Institute of Sport Exercise and Health (ISEH)
170 Tottenham Court Road
London
W1T 7HA
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Outpatients and Diagnostics at 30 Devonshire Street
30 Devonshire Street
London W1G 6PU
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The Wellington Hospital Knee Unit
Platinum Medical Centre
15 – 17 Lodge Road
NW8 7JA
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The Wellington Hospital Elstree Waterfront
The Waterfront Business Park
Beaufort House, Elstree Road
Elstree WD6 3BS
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Platinum Medical Centre
15 - 17 Lodge Road
London
NW8 7JA
Request an orthopaedic appointment for your child
We're happy to help you make an appointment with one of our experienced paediatric consultants who specialise in orthopaedics. We can also make imaging and outpatient physiotherapy appointments for you.
Call us today
020 7079 4344