“Knock Knees” is a condition where the knees come together or touch each other when the legs are straightened, also known as “genu valgum” or “valgus knee”. It is a common knee joint problem and occurs when the lower leg bone (tibia) is angled outward, causing the knee to bend inward.
This article by fivalifitness explains knock knees in adults, including their causes, diagnosis, and treatment options. It covers non-surgical approaches such as exercise, orthotics, and bracing, as well as surgical options like osteotomy and joint replacement surgery.
Reasons for Knock Knees in Adults
Some of the causes of knee knocks in adults are as follows:
- Genetic factors: Knee knocking is probably due to genetic factors, which is one of the main reasons for its occurrence in adults.
- Malnutrition: Malnutrition can lead to abnormal bone or cartilage development, resulting in knee bumps in adults.
- Trauma or surgery: Injury or surgery to the knee, thigh bone, or tibia is a known reason for knee impingement in adults.
- Skeletal disorders: The growth and development of bone as a result of certain orthopedic conditions, such as osteochondral dysplasia, can be affected, leading to knee knock in adults.
- Muscle, ligament, or joint dysfunction: An imbalance of muscles, ligamentous laxity, and other associated dysfunctions can also lead to knee knock in adults.
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Treatment Methods
Some treatment options for repairing the knee joint in adults are described in bullet points below:
- Balance exercises: Activities to improve balance can help improve gait and posture and reduce stress on the knee joint. This includes single-leg stance, leg swings, and other balance exercises.
- Exercises: Tailored strength training and stretching exercises can help strengthen muscles and ligaments, support the knee joint and reduce stress on the joint. This includes squats, bends, and leg lifts.
- Orthotics: Using orthotics, such as custom insoles, patches, and arch supports, can help to correct postural and alignment problems and reduce stress on the knee joint.
- Hinged knee brace: In addition to orthotics, a healthcare professional may suggest a hinged knee brace. It provides additional support for the knee while providing stability and reducing stress on the knee joint. It is a device design that allows for the full range of motion while providing stability and reducing stress on the knee joint.
- Healthy diet: Diets rich in calcium, vitamin D and other nutrients can promote healthy bone development.
- Low-intensity exercise: Low-intensity exercises, such as swimming, yoga, and walking, can reduce stress on the knee joint.
- Personal care: Good habits, such as maintaining proper sitting posture, using proper footwear, and modifying walking patterns, will help prevent further damage to the knee joint.
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Surgical Options for Knock Knees
In some cases, surgical intervention may be required to correct the knee. The decision to undergo surgery depends on the severity of the deformity, the underlying cause, and personal factors, such as age and overall health status. The following are some surgical options for correcting the knee joint:
- External Retinacular Release: This operation involves releasing the constricting structures on the outside of the knee to help align the kneecap. This procedure is most effective when the knock-knee is caused by a problem with the patella (kneecap).
- Distal femoral osteotomy: In this procedure, your femur (thigh bone) is cut and reshaped to improve the alignment of the knee joint.
- Tibial osteotomy: In this procedure, the tibia (lower leg bone) is cut and reshaped to realign the knee joint.
- Joint replacement surgery: In severe cases where the knee joint is significantly damaged or affected by arthritis, partial or total knee replacement surgery may be required.
Reference
Can Knock Knees Be Corrected in Adults? – HSS
How To Fix Knock Knees (Exercises To Correct Knee Valgus) – YouTube
Disclaimer
The information provided in articles written by Fivali is intended for educational and reference purposes only. The content on this website ( fivalifitness.com) is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We do not recommend self-diagnosis or self-treatment based on the information provided in our articles. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional if you have any concerns about your health or well-being.
If you are experiencing any symptoms or discomfort, we strongly encourage you to seek medical attention from a qualified healthcare professional. Only a licensed healthcare practitioner can provide an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.
