Genu varum (bowlegs) and genu valgum (knock-knees) are common knee deformities in children that often resolve naturally as they grow. Genu Varum (Bowlegs): In this condition, the knees are apart while the feet and ankles are together, creating an outward curve. It’s typical in infants and toddlers (1-3 years old) and usually improves by age 3 or 4. If severe or persistent, orthotics or braces may be used to support proper alignment and guide bone growth. Genu Valgum (Knock-Knees): Here, the knees touch but the feet are apart. It is common in children aged 3-5 and typically corrects itself over time. If it persists, orthotics or braces may be used to improve alignment. Orthotics and Braces: Orthotics are shoe inserts that correct foot misalignment, potentially improving knee positioning. Braces or splints may be used in severe cases to guide proper bone growth. Braces: In more severe cases of genu varum or genu valgum, braces or splints might be used to help guide the bones to grow in the correct position. These devices are typically used when there's a concern about the condition not self-correcting over time. Braces may be worn during activities to promote proper alignment during movement.

A Knee-Ankle-Foot Orthosis (KAFO) is a custom made brace that starts above the knee and extends all the way down the leg to the end of the toes. These braces will normally include a knee joint and possibly an ankle joint as well. A KAFO is prescribed by your physician when there is significant weakness and/or instability at the knee and ankle joints. The KAFO will allow patients to stand by locking the knee joint in the brace when the thigh muscles are too weak to support the knee. This brace can also reduce significant knee hyperextension (genu recurvatum) during the gait cycle. KAFOs can be extended to the hip to provide additional support to the hip joint if necessary.  The KAFO is commonly used in the treatment of: 1-Blount’s Disease 2-Genu Recurvatum 3-Post-Polio 4-Spinal Cord Injury 5-Arthrogryposis 6-Cerebral Palsy 7-Polio 8-Spina Bifida  At your initial assessment you will meet with your Orthotist to go through a complete assessment of your strength and range of motion and undergo an observational gait analysis. There are many different designs of KAFOs, each with different functions and levels of support. In collaboration with your Orthotist at OrthoProActive and your health team, we will determine which KAFO design will help to provide you with the best functional outcomes.