Bowing of the Knee (Genu Varum)

It is a physical impairment characterized by an outward curvature of the knees.

• Physiological: Common under the age of 2 years.
• Abnormal: More prevalent above the age of 2 years.
• Rickets, Blount's disease (growth plate dysfunction at inner aspect of knee), or previous infection or injury may be the cause.

• A large gap between the knees when standing with the feet together.
• One or both knees may be affected.
• Untreated knees may worsen over time.

• X-ray imaging can assess the condition's severity.
• Surgical options include temporary tethering of the knee's normal outer growth plate in young children or permanent tethering in older children.

• For older adolescents, bone cutting may be necessary for realignment.

• Professor James Hui
• Professor Lee Eng Hin
• Dr Andrew Lim