Understanding Bow Legs in Children

What Causes It?

Here are the most common causes for bow legs:

• Many babies are born with bow legs as newborns because they were curled up in the womb. By the time the child is 3 years old, this usually goes away on its own.

• Blount’s disease is a growth disorder which affects the shinbone and makes the bowing worse or more uneven.

• Rickets makes bones weak or soft because kids don't get enough vitamin D.

• Achondroplasia is the most common type of dwarfism. It can cause bow legs because the bones grow abnormally.

• Other factors that can cause bow legs in some kids are bone injuries or fractures that didn't heal properly, abnormal bone growth (bone dysplasia), lead or fluoride poisoning, and genetic factors.

Remember to consult your pediatrician if you spot any concerns regarding your child’s health. Check whether the maternity cover in health insurance covers treatment for any health issues your baby might have.

Symptoms

The most obvious sign of bow legs is the outward curve of your child’s legs when they stand with their feet and ankles together. Their knees won’t touch, leaving a noticeable gap. This bowing is often more visible when they’re walking.

Other symptoms include:

• Pigeon toes or intoeing: Toes pointing inward while walking

• Tripping, clumsiness, or balance issues

• Less movement in the hips or knees

• Unstable knees

• Hip or knee pain

How Is It Diagnosed?

A doctor can help you figure out if your child's bow legs are normal with a quick check-up.

• The doctor will examine your child's legs, observe their walking style, and assess their flexibility.

• X-rays to see the bones better and rule out diseases like rickets or Blount's disease.

• The doctor may want to know about your child's diet, family history, or any injuries they have had in the past.

• Blood tests to check for vitamin D or calcium deficiencies if rickets is suspected.

These tests can accumulate to be a huge medical cost. Ensure you have health insurance that can cover your child.

Treatment Options

Most babies and toddlers with bow legs don't need any treatment because their legs get better on their own as they get older. But if the bowing doesn't stop by age 2-3, or if it's caused by diseases like Blount's disease or rickets, treatment may be suggested:

• Kids with Blount's disease may need to wear a special leg brace called a KAFO (knee-ankle-foot orthosis) all the time to help their bones grow in the right way.

• If rickets is the cause, taking vitamin D and calcium supplements or changing the diet may help make the bones stronger. Genetic forms of rickets may need to be treated by an endocrinologist.

• If your child's bow legs are severe, don't get better with braces, or cause other problems, the doctor may suggest surgery.

Some common surgical options are:

◦ Guided growth surgery: A small metal plate or staple is put in place to help the leg straighten on its own as it grows.

◦ Tibial osteotomy: The shin bone is cut and reshaped to correct its alignment. Then, plates, screws, or an outside frame are used to keep it in place.

◦ Limb lengthening surgery: This surgery is only done in cases when one leg is shorter than the other because it is bent.

When to See a Doctor

The sooner a bow leg deformity is found, the better. If bow legs aren't treated on time, they may cause pain, instability, or even arthritis in the knees.

You should see a doctor if:

• Your child's bow legs haven't gotten better by the time they turn 3.

• There is a very clear or uneven curve on each leg.

• Your child is limping, in pain, or having trouble keeping their balance.

• Other signs include being tired, not growing well, or having weak bones.

Conclusion

Parents may be worried about bow legs (genu varum) at first, but in many cases, it is just a normal part of a child's growth. If your child's bow legs look bad, don't get better over time, or are linked to other symptoms, you should consult a doctor.

With the right care and help, your child can stay healthy, strong, and active as they grow up. You should also secure a good health insurance plan to cover your family's medical needs.

One of the important components of our overall wellness is also being financially secured. Healthcare emergencies can happen any time, but a good health insurance policy can protect you from such uncertain situations. To know more about Wellness and other health related tips, visit the wellness corner.

Sources: nyp.org, kidshealth.org, clevelandclinic.org

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered or used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Kindly contact your doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

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Published on August 22, 2025