Are knees in O-shaped legs (bowlegs) turned inward or outward?
May 11, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lin Yunfei
Introduction
O-shaped legs, also known as genu varum, generally refer to an inward angulation of the knees. Genu varum typically describes a condition in which, when standing with the ankles touching, the lower limbs form an O-shape. Individuals with mild symptoms may correct the condition by wearing appropriate braces under a doctor's guidance, while severe cases may require surgical treatments such as osteotomy with external fixation or knee joint replacement surgery.
O-shaped legs, also known as genu varum, generally present with inward turning of the knees. Specific details are as follows:
Genu varum typically refers to an O-shaped appearance of the lower limbs when a person stands with both ankles touching. This condition may result from abnormal bone development, rickets, post-traumatic deformities, excessive obesity, or other causes. It usually leads to uneven stress distribution on the inner and outer sides of the knee joints, resulting in a gap between the two knees that prevents them from touching. Patients may experience knee pain during fatigue or prolonged walking.
Patients with mild symptoms of genu varum can wear appropriate braces under a doctor's guidance for correction. Severe cases may require surgical treatments such as osteotomy with external fixation or knee replacement surgery. After treatment, appropriate functional exercises are recommended to promote recovery of knee joint function.
