Bow Legs Treatment: Braces, Orthotics & Solutions for Adults & Children

What Are Bow Legs?

Bow legs, medically referred to as genu varum, is a condition where the legs curve outward at the knees while the feet remain closer together. In children, this condition is often noticed as the child’s legs curve outward and create a bow-like appearance. This misalignment can lead to an uneven weight distribution and may cause discomfort in the knees, hips, and lower back.

In many children, bow legs resolve naturally as they grow. However, in adults, this condition can result in knee pain and difficulty walking due to the uneven pressure on the knee joint. In severe cases of bow legs, it can lead to degeneration of the knee joint and increase the risk of arthritis or other related joint issues.

Symptoms of Bow Legs

The symptoms of bow legs can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Here are some common signs to look out for:

• Knee Pain: A frequent issue for those with bow legs is knee pain which is caused by the abnormal leg alignment that places extra pressure on the knee joint.
• Foot Discomfort: Those with bow legs might also feel discomfort in their feet, especially around the arches. In some cases, flat feet may develop as a related issue.
• Leg Fatigue: The unnatural positioning of the legs can lead to leg tiredness as well as difficulty standing or walking for extended periods.
• Balance Issues: Misalignment in the legs can affect balance, so activities such as walking or running may be more difficult. This can impact a child’s ability to participate in physical activities effectively.

What Causes Bowed Legs?

While the primary causes of bowed legs can vary, they often include at least one of the following factors:

• Genetics: Many infants are born with naturally bowed legs because of their positioning in the mother’s womb. In most cases, this alignment resolves on its own as the child grows, typically by the age of three. However, for some individuals, genetic factors may cause the condition to continue into adulthood.
• Rickets: Rickets, a condition resulting from a deficiency of vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate, can weaken and soften leg bones in children. This often impacts the growth plates, the areas of developing tissue at the ends of long bones, which play a crucial role in bone growth. When the growth plates are affected, it can lead to skeletal deformities such as bowing of the legs.
• Osteoarthritis: In adults, bowed legs may develop due to osteoarthritis, especially when the cartilage in the medial (inner) compartment of the knee wears down. This uneven wear can shift the knee joint’s alignment and cause the legs to bow outward. The result is potential pain and mobility challenges.
• Leg Length Discrepancy: When one leg is shorter than the other, the uneven distribution of weight and stress on the bones can gradually lead to the bowing of the longer leg. This imbalance may need corrective measures, such as orthotics or surgery.
• Blount’s disease: Blount’s disease or tibia vara, is a growth disorder affecting the upper tibia's growth plates near the knee. This condition occurs when the medial (inner) growth plate slows or stops growing while the lateral (outer) side continues, causing a pronounced bowlegged appearance.
  • Key Features and Progression:
    • Onset and Types: Blount’s disease can appear as early as age two and will be one of two forms; infantile (early onset) and adolescent. The infantile type progresses quickly if untreated, while the adolescent form may cause more severe misalignment.
    • Affected Limbs: It can impact one leg (unilateral) or both (bilateral), mainly at the top of the tibia.
    • Risk Factors: Obesity often contributes to the condition by placing extra strain on developing bones.
    • Long-Term Impact: Without treatment, the deformity can worsen and lead to knee instability, pain, and joint problems later in life.

How Are Bow Legs Diagnosed?

To get a bowed legs diagnosis, you’ll need a comprehensive assessment from a healthcare provider. The diagnosis typically involves:

• Physical Examination: The doctor will examine your leg alignment, identify visible deformities, and assess your joint range of motion.
• X-Rays: X-ray imaging helps determine the severity of the leg curvature and excludes other conditions, such as arthritis or structural abnormalities.
• Medical History: A thorough review of your medical history, including any past injuries or conditions like rickets, provides valuable context for identifying the cause of the deformity.
• Gait Analysis: Evaluating how you walk can reveal how the bow legged posture impacts your movement and balance.
• Blood Tests: Bloodwork may be performed to check for underlying metabolic or nutritional issues, such as vitamin D deficiency, that could contribute to the condition.

Treatment Options for Genu Varum

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all treatment approach, as treatment for bowed legs varies depending on the severity of the condition, the patient’s age, and whether the condition is causing pain or discomfort. We’ve outlined some common treatment options below:

Non-Surgical Treatments

• Orthotics for Bow Legs: Bow leg orthotics can help improve alignment, support the arch, and reduce strain on the knees. Customized insoles or arch supports can provide the necessary cushioning and support for both children and adults with flat feet or other related conditions.
• Braces for Bow Legs: Leg braces for bow legs are often recommended to provide additional support, especially for adults with severe knee pain. These leg braces for bow legs help reduce stress on the knee joint and improve mobility.
• Physical Therapy: A customized therapy program can strengthen the muscles around the knee, improve flexibility, and help realign the legs over time.

At PrimeCare, we proudly offer personalized orthotic solutions designed to address bowlegged deformities. Our dedicated and passionate professionals focus on enhancing mobility and reducing discomfort, providing tailored support for individuals of all ages to promote better alignment and improve their quality of life.

Surgical Treatments

In severe cases where non-surgical methods are ineffective, surgery might be an option. Some surgical options include:

• Osteotomy: A surgical procedure where the leg bones are realigned to improve their function.
• Guided Growth: In children, guided growth surgery can help straighten the legs as they grow by using small metal plates to correct the curvature.
• Knee Replacement: In extreme cases, especially in older adults with severe knee pain, a total knee replacement may be needed to replace the damaged knee joint.

Can Bow Legs Be Prevented?

While bow legs cannot always be prevented, there are several ways you can reduce the risk of the condition, particularly in children:

• Adequate Vitamin D: Sufficient vitamin D is essential for healthy bone growth and can help prevent conditions like rickets, which may contribute to bowleggedness.
• Supportive Footwear: Choosing shoes with proper arch support helps promote good leg alignment and reduces the risk of discomfort or strain.
• Routine Check-Ups: Regular visits to the doctor can catch early signs of bow legs or related issues, so it’s easier to get timely treatment.