What is genu varum?
The bowed leg (or genu varum) is the outward bending of the leg at the knee when the foot and ankle are in contact. Babies usually have the genu varum. Older kids can do this too.
It rarely becomes serious and usually goes away without treatment. It usually disappears when the child is 3-4 years old.
What are the signs and symptoms of the genu varum?
Genu varum usually does not cause pain or discomfort and does not bother the baby. Parents may be concerned about the appearance of their child's feet and strange gait patterns. However, genu varum does not affect a child's ability to crawl, walk or run.
Children with genu varum may walk around their toes (called toes or pigeon toes) or stumble and look awkward. These problems usually resolve as the child gets older. if
if the condition persists into adolescence, it may cause discomfort in the ankles, knees, or lower back.
What is the cause of the genu varum?
When a baby is born with a genu varum, this is because some of the bone has to rotate (twist) slightly to fit into a small space as it grows in the womb. This is called the physiological genu varum. It is considered a normal part of a child's growth and development.
When a child starts walking, they may recover after leaning a little more. The bow of toddlers at a young age is more pronounced.
In most children, the sideways flexion of the legs is naturally corrected by the age of 3-4 years. The legs may appear to be bent inward (knee strike). Legs are usually straightened by 7 or 8 years of age.
In rare cases, genu varuma can be caused by more serious medical conditions such as:
Bone growth problems due to rickets, vitamin D, or calcium deficiency. It is more common in developing countries where children do not have access to adequate vitamin D-enriched foods. Rickets can run in families because of genetic problems that affect the way the body uses vitamin D. Brandt's disease, growth retardation affecting the leg bones
Conditions that can affect the growth of the bone around the knee, such as injuries, infections, and tumors
Who gets the genu varum?
Most infants and young children have at least some physiological flexion of their legs. genu exist
- 5- year-olds are often due to Blount's disease or another condition. Brant's disease is common in children such as:
- fat
- I started walking early
Having a family in the state
How is genu varum diagnosed?
Your healthcare provider will do a test and ask you questions about your child's medical history. If your child is less than 2 years old, comfortable, and has evenly bent legs, you probably won't test it. Instead, they look to the genu varum to get better as the child grows.
Some children need to see an orthopedist (bone specialist) if:
If your feet don't straighten yourself. Flexion is asymmetrical (legs bent at various angles). Symptoms such as pain, limping, weakness, and difficulty walking are seen in children. X-rays may be needed to look for brant or rickets. If you suspect rickets, a blood test can help with this diagnosis.
How is genu varum treated?
Physiological genu varum does not require treatment. It usually changes itself as the child grows. Children with Brant's disease may require braces and surgery. Rickets is usually treated by adding vitamin D and calcium to the diet. Rickets due to a genetic condition may require more specialized treatment by an endocrinologist (a doctor who treats disorders of the endocrine system).
What should I know?
Children with genu varum do not need to limit their activities. They can run, walk and move like other children of the same age.
Leave Comment