Understanding Bowed Legs
What is it? Bowed legs, or genu varum, is when a child's legs curve outward at the knees while the feet and ankles touch. It’s common in infants and toddlers and often part of normal growth. Most cases improve naturally as children grow.
Common Types
- Physiologic (Normal Variant): Common in children under 2 years old. Both legs curve equally, and walking/growth are otherwise normal. Often resolves by age 2–3 without treatment.
- Pathologic: May be caused by conditions like Blount disease. Signs include one leg more bowed than the other, worsening bowing after age 2, or associated pain.
- Nutritional: May be due to vitamin D or calcium deficiency (rickets). Signs include poor growth, bone pain, or frequent fractures.
When to Manage at Home
✅ You can manage your child's bowed legs at home when:
- Child is under age 2 and bowing is mild and equal in both legs.
- Walking and growth are otherwise normal.
- No pain, limping, or worsening curve.
- No other symptoms like swelling, fever, or bone pain.
How to Treat at Home
🏠 Home remedies for bowed legs:
- Monitor your child’s growth and walking milestones.
- Encourage safe play; no activity restrictions unless pain develops.
- Offer a balanced diet with calcium and vitamin D (foods or supplements if advised).
- Ensure outdoor play for natural sunlight exposure.
Medication
- Medication is not usually required unless prescribed for an underlying condition like rickets. If prescribed supplements, follow your provider’s instructions exactly.
When to Contact Poppins
📱 Contact us again when:
- You have questions about your child’s growth or leg alignment.
- You notice changes in walking pattern.
- Your child resists walking or playing.
When to Visit Your Pediatrician
🩺 Go to an in-person appointment when:
- Bowing is getting worse after age 2.
- One leg appears more bowed than the other.
- Your child has pain, swelling, limping, or stiffness.
- Signs of nutritional deficiency are present (bone pain, frequent fractures).
If your gut tells you something is wrong, don't hesitate to reach out. Need help? Reconnect with our on-demand team of medical staff available 24/7.
