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Types

Knock-Knees (Child)

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Knock-knees (genu valgum) is an inward bending of the legs from the knees to the ankles. This causes the knees to touch while the feet are apart when standing. It's most common between ages 3 and 5. It often corrects itself by ages 4 to 7.


Home care

There is no special home care needed.


Follow-up care

Follow up with your child’s health care provider as advised.


When to get medical advice

Contact your child’s health care provider right away if:

  • The problem gets worse after your child's 4th birthday.

  • The problem lasts after your child’s 7th birthday.

  • Your child has pain, limping, or falling. 

  • With your child standing with their inner knees touching and both kneecaps pointing forward, the distance between your child's inner ankle bones is more than 3 inches.

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© 2000-2025 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
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