When will a newborn's bowed legs straighten out?
Oct 12, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xie Zixing
Introduction
Bowlegs in newborns usually straighten out around one week after birth. Because infants remain curled up for a prolonged period in the womb, once external pressure is removed after birth, their legs and feet gradually straighten over the next six months. By about one year of age, the legs typically become straight when walking. However, if bowleggedness persists around the age of one during walking, corrective rehabilitation exercises can be used to help correct the leg alignment.
Generally, a newborn's bowed legs will straighten out by around one week of age.
Babies remain in a curled position for an extended period in the womb. After birth, once external pressure is removed, their feet and legs gradually straighten over the following six months. By about one year of age, their legs typically become straight when walking. However, if bowing of the legs persists around the age of one during walking, it is recommended to visit a reputable medical institution and consult with a specialist. Corrective measures such as rehabilitation exercises can help adjust leg alignment. In particular, for obvious X-shaped legs or persistent bowed legs, orthopedic shoes or braces may be used for correction. If symptoms do not improve after trying these methods, early medical evaluation is advised to undergo further examinations, identify the underlying cause of the bowed legs, and promptly begin appropriate treatment under professional guidance. This helps prevent delayed diagnosis and potential impacts on growth and development.
During treatment, it is beneficial to include more calcium-rich foods in the diet, such as milk, lean meat, and nuts.
