Bowed knees, knock knees, and bow-legged posture can occur in childhood. For some, as they grow older, the knee’s appearance can naturally straighten. However, for others, the irregular shape continues, leading to differences in appearance, insecurity, and pain. Some patients feel unstable and may experience premature cartilage wear due to changes in knee joint alignment.

What are Bowed Knees, Knock Knees, and Bow-Legged Postures?

Bowed knees, knock knees (Varus Knee) are knees that extend outward, making the legs appear as though they are curving towards each other. Knock knees, bow-legged, or X-legged conditions (Valgus Knee) are knees that extend inward, making the legs appear as though they are curving outward. 

How Do Bowed Knees, Knock Knees, and Bow-Legged Postures Affect One?

• Changes in walking and physical appearance 
• Altered muscle work and knee joint alignment, leading to knee structure injuries
• Abnormal knee joint weight-bearing, causing injuries to the meniscus or cartilage 
• If left untreated, severe conditions can cause pain and restricted movement, making daily activities challenging

Causes of Bowed Knees, Knock Knees, and Bow-Legged Postures

• Knee joint degeneration Aging causes cartilage in the knee to deteriorate due to prolonged use.
• Injury from accidents in the knee area or bones in the lower extremities, leading to changes in knee structure
• Overweight Excessive weight increases the load on the knees, causing faster degeneration
• Metabolic diseases or inflammatory joint diseases
• Congenital knee deformities

How to Check for Bowed Knees, Knock Knees, and Bow-Legged Postures?

• Physical examination Doctors will examine the symptoms, knee structure problems, knee joint movement, and assess knee instability 
• Radiographic imaging to assess knee and bone damage and to analyze the extent of bowing or knock knees

Treatment Approaches for Bowed Knees, Knock Knees, and Bow-Legged Postures

• Non-surgical treatment by changing habits, such as avoiding postures that put excessive weight on the knees, weight reduction, and using knee support equipment
• Medication such as pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs to alleviate symptoms and reduce knee inflammation
• Physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around the knee
• Surgical treatment In severe cases where initial treatments are ineffective, doctors may consider realigning knee bones or, in cases of significant cartilage degeneration, knee replacement surgery. This can be done using advanced surgical techniques and equipment, allowing patients to recover quickly, safely, and return to normal activities as soon as possible

Specialist Doctors for Treating Bowed Knees, Knock Knees, and Bow-Legged Postures

Dr. Panuwat Silawatshananai Orthopedic Surgeon Specializing in Knee and Hip Replacement without Muscle Cutting Bangkok International Hospital  Hospital for Bones and Brain 

You can click here to book an appointment on your own.

Hospital Specializing in Treating Bowed Knees, Knock Knees, and Bow-Legged Postures

Hip and Knee Center at Bangkok International Hospital Hospital for Bones and Brain provides appropriate treatment for bowed knees, knock knees, and bow-legged postures tailored to each individual. The center has a team of specialized doctors ready to offer precise consultation and treatment, aiming to restore your health optimally and ensure a good quality of life for the patients.