Dismiss Modal

Types

Knock-Knees (Child)

Choose a preferred language

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.

Featured in

© 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.

Make an Appointment

Make an Appointment

Find a Doctor

Find a Doctor

Find a Location

Find a Location

Related Services

Orthopedics Center

Related Articles
Read article
Orthopedics
Scoliosis (Child)

Scoliosis is a problem that causes an S-shaped or C-shaped curve of the spine. Learn more about scoliosis, including how to care for your child at home.

Read article
Orthopedics
Tibial Torsion

Tibial torsion refers to a twist in the tibia, the main bone in the lower leg. Learn about the care and treatment for this condition.

Read article
Orthopedics
AC Joint Sprain (Child)

Learn how to care for your child's AC joint sprain.

Read article
Orthopedics
When Your Child Has Osteochondritis Dissecans

Your child has osteochondritis dissecans (OCD). This occurs when a small piece of bone and cartilage in a part of a joint separates from the bone around it. It's most common in the knee joint.