Children often have knees and legs that look awkward when they are infants. Two types of bone problems that can be obvious when children are little are bowlegs and knock-knees. Both of these conditions are fairly common in infancy, and are usually outgrown by the time the child enters school.

In bowlegs, the ankles touch, but the knees are wide apart. Bowlegs appear to be the opposite of knock-knees. Knock-knees are often noted by parents when a child is standing. While standing, the knees touch, but the ankles do not.

Most children have bowlegs at birth. It is rarely noted in infancy, unless it is severe. Once a child starts crawling or walking, the condition may become more obvious. It is always worse from 12 to 18 months of age. Most children will outgrow this condition.

Knock-knees are also common and are usually outgrown as the child matures. Knock-knees are most commonly seen at age 3. If your child has either of these problems, they are likely to outgrow them without the need of special treatments.

In some cases, your healthcare provider may want your child to see a pediatric orthopedic doctor for an evaluation of their knees and feet. If you see this specialist, they will ask you about your child's history. In addition, they will take measurements of different lengths between your child's hips, knees, and ankles. They may do X-ray examinations of the skeleton.

Most children outgrow these problems. In rare cases, surgery may be recommended. This is usually suggested when the symptoms continue as your child grows older. Some healthcare providers recommend braces or special shoes to help straighten the legs. Other doctors feel that these recommendations do not make a great deal of difference. Still others, believe there is never an indication to use braces or special shoes for these problems.

If your child has one of these conditions, and you are worried, seek advice from your healthcare provider.

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