Knock Knees (Genu Valgum): Can Chiropractic Help?

What Are Knock Knees?

Genu valgum is a common childhood alignment variant where knees angle inward and touch while ankles remain apart. Most cases resolve spontaneously by age 7–8.

Chiropractic Role

• Adjustments may improve joint mechanics, reduce compensatory strain, and alleviate associated discomfort.
• Cannot correct the underlying bony deformity or change skeletal alignment permanently.

Evidence-Based Management

• Observation: Most children outgrow it.
• Physical therapy: Strengthens hip abductors, improves gait mechanics.
• Bracing/orthotics: Rarely indicated; only for severe, symptomatic cases.
• Surgery (guided growth or osteotomy): Reserved for persistent, severe deformity after skeletal maturity or with functional impairment.

Recommendation

Consult a pediatric orthopedist or physiatrist for evaluation. Chiropractic may complement but not replace standard care.