Why is my 13-month-old baby's legs slightly bent when walking?

Under normal circumstances, bowed legs when a 13-month-old baby walks may be caused by factors such as growth and development stage, walking habits, vitamin D deficiency rickets, congenital bone deformities, or achondroplasia. If discomfort occurs, timely medical consultation is recommended. Specific analysis is as follows:

1. Growth and Development Stage

During the growth and development process, the leg bones of a 13-month-old baby have not yet fully matured, which may lead to a temporary condition of slightly bowed legs when walking. It is recommended to maintain balanced nutrition and moderate physical activity for the baby to promote healthy skeletal development.

2. Walking Habits

At 13 months of age, babies are still developing muscle strength and balance, which may result in an unstable gait, leading to slightly bowed legs when walking. It is advisable to encourage the baby to practice standing and walking appropriately to gradually strengthen lower limb muscles and improve balance.

3. Vitamin D Deficiency Rickets

Vitamin D deficiency in a 13-month-old baby may lead to vitamin D deficiency rickets, affecting normal skeletal development and causing bowed legs when walking. This condition is often accompanied by symptoms such as night terrors and excessive sweating. It is recommended to treat under a doctor's guidance using medications such as vitamin AD soft capsules, vitamin D2 tablets, or vitamin D drops.

4. Congenital Bone Deformities

Congenital bone deformities may arise from genetic factors or abnormal embryonic development, potentially causing bowed legs when a 13-month-old baby walks. This may also be accompanied by abnormal joint movement or pain. It is recommended to undergo rehabilitation training and physical therapy under medical supervision to improve joint mobility and reduce pain.

5. Achondroplasia

Achondroplasia is a genetic disorder that may affect the normal development of bones and cartilage, resulting in bowed legs when a 13-month-old baby walks, along with symptoms such as short stature and shortened limbs. It is recommended to adopt a comprehensive approach including growth hormone therapy, physical therapy, and surgical correction under medical supervision.

In the baby’s daily diet, spicy, raw, or cold foods should be avoided to prevent bodily discomfort.