Genu Varum — Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

Genu varum, also known as bow-leggedness, is a condition in which the knees curve outward, resulting in a distinct gap between the ankles when the feet are together. This condition is typically more noticeable when a person is standing or walking.

In most cases, the condition will resolve on its own as the child grows and develops, but in some cases, medical intervention may be necessary. The common symptoms of genu varum may include:

• Visible bowing of the legs when standing with feet together.
• Knees that do not touch when standing with feet together.
• Difficulty walking or running.
• Pain in the knees or legs.
• Stiffness or limited range of motion in the knees.

Genu varum can also be a natural and normal part of a child's development, particularly during the first few years of life. The causes of genu varum can vary depending on the individual case, but common causes include:

• Abnormal bone growth or development in the legs
• Arthritis, which can cause the knees to bend outward over time.
• Injuries to the knee or leg that results in deformity or malalignment of the bones.
• Obesity, which can place excess strain on the knees and legs and contribute to abnormal bone growth or development

Pathology:
Genu varum, also known as bow-leggedness, is a condition that results from an abnormal curvature of the legs, specifically an outward bowing of the knees. The pathology of genu varum involves changes to the bones, joints, and muscles of the legs that lead to this abnormal curvature. Injury to the knee or leg can damage the bones or soft tissues, leading to deformities and malalignment of the leg bones. Chronic inflammation in the knee joint can cause damage to the cartilage and bone, leading to deformities and malalignment of the leg bones. Excessive weight can place significant stress on the bones and joints of the legs, leading to abnormal bone growth and deformities.

Physical Examination:
A physiotherapist will conduct a physical examination of the legs to assess the degree of bowing, check for signs of inflammation or tenderness in the knees or legs, and evaluate the range of motion in the affected joints.

Imaging tests:
X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans can be used to evaluate the bones, joints, and soft tissues of the legs to determine the severity and underlying cause of bow-leggedness.

Blood tests:
Blood tests may be performed to assess for nutritional deficiencies or underlying medical conditions that can contribute to bow-leggedness.

Arthroscopy:
In some cases, a doctor may perform an arthroscopy, which involves inserting a small camera into the knee joint to assess the condition of the joint and surrounding tissues.

Gait analysis:
A gait analysis involves observing and measuring a person's walking or running pattern to assess the degree of bowing and determine how it affects their mobility.

Joint aspiration:
If there is inflammation in the knee joint, a doctor may perform a joint aspiration, which involves removing a small amount of fluid from the joint for analysis.

Medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), Acetaminophen, Corticosteroids, etc.
Note: Medication should not be taken without the doctor’s prescription.

Surgery:
In most cases, genu varum is a normal variation in development and does not require treatment. However, in severe cases, surgery may be recommended to correct the deformity.

Osteotomy:
The most common surgery for genu varum is called an osteotomy, which involves cutting and reshaping the bones of the lower leg. During the procedure, the surgeon will make a small incision and use special tools to remove a small section of bone. The bone is then repositioned and secured with plates and screws.

Thermotherapy:
Thermotherapy or heat therapy is used to reduce pain and inflammation in the knee joint.

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS):
TENS involves the use of low-frequency electrical current to stimulate the nerves in the affected area. This can help to reduce pain and inflammation, which may be beneficial in cases where bow-leggedness is causing discomfort.

Ultrasound Therapy:
Ultrasound therapy involves the use of high-frequency sound waves to penetrate the skin and stimulate blood flow to the affected area. This can help to reduce pain and inflammation in the knee joint.

Interferential Current Therapy (IFC):
IFC involves the use of two high-frequency electrical currents that are applied to the affected area through electrodes. The electrical currents interact with each other to produce a deep heating effect that can help to improve blood flow, reduce inflammation, and promote healing.

Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES):
NMES involves the use of electrical currents to stimulate the muscles in the affected area. This can help to improve muscle strength, endurance, and coordination, which may be beneficial in cases where bow-leggedness is caused by muscle weakness or imbalance.

Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy (PEMF):
PEMF involves the use of low-frequency electromagnetic waves to stimulate the cells in the affected area. This can help to reduce inflammation, improve blood flow, and promote healing.

Strengthening Exercises:
Strengthening exercises for the muscles around the hips, knees, and ankles can help improve the alignment of the legs and reduce the strain on the knees. Exercises may include squats, lunges, leg presses, calf raises, and hip abductor and adductor exercises.

Stretching Exercises:
Stretching exercises can help to improve flexibility and range of motion in the knee joint, which may help to reduce the strain on the joint and improve overall mobility.

Gait Training:
Gait training involves working with a physiotherapist to improve the patient's walking pattern. This may include using assistive devices such as braces or crutches or making modifications to the patient's footwear or gait pattern.

Manual therapy:
Manual therapy techniques, such as massage or joint mobilization, can help to improve blood flow and reduce inflammation in the affected area. This can help to improve overall function and reduce pain and discomfort.

Balance Exercises:
Balance exercises can help improve proprioception and coordination, which can help improve the alignment of the legs. Exercises may include standing on one leg, wobble board exercises, and single-leg squats.

A physiotherapist can provide education on proper posture, body mechanics, and exercises that can be done at home to help manage the condition.