Bow Legs (Genu Varum)
The angle of the pelvis and hips is off, so the legs look bowed.
The bones are misaligned, so the axis of the thighbone and shinbone deviates from its normal angle. Once thought of as a cosmetic issue, severe bow legs put excess stress on the knee and can cause osteoarthritis even at a young age.
Common causes
01
Congenital: inherited factors, vitamin D deficiency, ethnic factors
02
Acquired: floor-sitting lifestyle common in Korea; being carried on the back often as an infant; poor walking habits and high heels; crossing the legs, sitting slouched or tilted, lying on the stomach for long periods; lack of exercise; improper postpartum recovery causing pelvic twisting
Signs to watch for
- A gap between the knees when standing with legs straight
- Feet spread wide when walking, with toes pointing inward
- Skirts or trousers keep twisting around
How we diagnose
Measurement
We record the age symptoms began, diet, injuries and other conditions, and measure the gap between the knees, leg length and distance between the ankles.
X-ray
The basic first test. Further tests may be added for a definite diagnosis.
Blood test
May be done to check for bone metabolism disorders such as rickets.
How we treat it
Untreated, weight shifts to the inner knee and can cause arthritis. The more bowed the legs, the odder the gait and the higher the risk of scoliosis, back pain and disc problems, so prevention matters most.
Brace
A brace helps stop a curve from progressing. There are soft braces and rigid plastic braces; the type and wearing period are chosen for each patient.
Manual & exercise therapy
A specialist physical therapist uses hands-on techniques based on anatomy, such as relaxation methods and joint mobilization, to reduce pain and improve function.
Osteotomy (surgery)
For severe bow legs with a gap of 7.5 cm or more between the knees, corrective osteotomy cuts the bone and rejoins it at a new angle and position to correct the deformity.
When surgery is consideredThe best prevention is good daily habits and posture.