Knock Knees (Genu Valgum): Causes, Impact on Joint Health, and Conservative Care
Have you noticed that your knees touch when you stand with your feet apart, or do you experience discomfort in your knees after walking? This lower limb alignment pattern is medically known as genu valgum , commonly called knock knees . While slight angle shifts are common, pronounced knock knees alter how weight is distributed across your joints, leading to premature wear, joint strain, and persistent pain over time. What Causes Knock Knees? Knock knees can develop during childhood development or manifest later in life due to underlying biomechanical stress: Muscle Imbalances: Weakness in the hip abductors and gluteal muscles allows the thighs to rotate inward, pushing the knees together. WhatsApp • Book Appointment Overpronation (Flat Feet): When the arches of the feet collapse inward during walking, it forces the lower leg bones and knees to angle inward. Previous Injuries or Joint Stress: Old ligament strains, meniscus tears, or altered gait patterns can shift knee me...