Knock knees

Alternative names:

genu valgum

Definition:

An outward angulation of the lower legs such that when the knees are touching the ankles are separated.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

By the time the child is 2 or 3 years old most children develop a slight knock-kneed stance, often with significant separation at the ankles when the knees are touching. This is a normal development and often persists through age 5 or 6, at which time the legs begin to straighten fully. By puberty, most children can stand with the knees and ankles touching (without forcing the position).

Knock-knees can also develop as a result of disease processes. Most often the precipitating condition has already been diagnosed and the knock-knees are recognized as a symptom of the condition.