Bowed Legs

What is it?

This is a condition that occurs in toddlers. It is not uncommon. Typically, it is just a normal variation in appearance, which is also referred to as “physiologic genu varum.” 

How is it Diagnosed?

Your doctor will ask questions and examine the child. However, sometimes x-rays and blood tests are needed to rule out more serious causes.

Does This Condition Require Treatment?

Generally this is a benign condition that does not require special shoes or braces. The bowing should improve as the child grows, typically from 15 to 18 months until 3 years of age.

What Else Could it Be?

Bowed legs can also be a presentation of Blount’s disease. It is a disease in which the abnormal growth in the upper part of the shin bone (tibia) causes the legs to bow. Unlike, benign genu varum, the bowing will be progressive. This disease must be treated with bracing or surgery.

Bowed legs in a toddler could also be caused by Rickets, which is a deficiency of Vitamin D. This rarely occurs in developed countries like the United States because many foods are fortified with Vitamin D, including milk. More commonly, rickets is secondary to a problem with absorbing or metabolizing Vitamin D. This condition requires surgery when the child gets older to correct the bowing.