Diagnostic Exams

Knock Knees and Bow Legged Deformations

Knock Knees – Geno Valgum
Geno Varum
A pediatrician normally checks a baby's legs during
routine examinations. If the bowing is less than 20
degrees, chances are that the problem will correct
itself. However, a bowing of more 20 degrees after the
age of 18 months, or one that is progressing or causing
pain when walking, should be investigated by a
pediatric orthopedist.

Mildlybowed legs that fail to straighten out

spontaneously by the time the child is four years old
also warrant an evaluation by an orthopedist.

Physical Examination
XRAY – Geno Valgum
Xray – Geno Varum
Q Angle Exam
The Q angle which is formed by a line drawn
from the anterior superior iliac spine through the
center of the patella and a line drawn from the
center of the patella to the center of the tibial
tubercle, should be measured next.

In women, the Q angle should be less than 22

degrees with the knee in extension and less than
9 degrees with the knee in 90 degrees of flexion.

In men, the Q angle should be less than 18

degrees with the knee in extension and less than
8 degrees with the knee in 90 degrees of flexion.
Bowlegs may indicate rickets, a disease caused by
vitamin D deficiency due either to an inadequate
amount in the diet, a lack of exposure to sunlight,
or a genetic inability to absorb the vitamin.

Without sufficient vitamin D, the body cannot

utilize calcium, and the result is soft and
deformed bones.

Laboratory tests can detect the genetic form.

Vitamin D Test