Do your knees angle inward when you stand straight, causing your ankles to stay apart? Knocked knees — also known as genu valgum — can affect both children and adults. While mild cases may not cause problems, more severe alignment issues can lead to knee pain, instability, and long-term joint damage.
Cristobal Beiro, MD, is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon with subspecialty certification in Sports Medicine. Fellowship-trained and highly experienced in complex knee surgery, he provides advanced alignment correction in Avenel, NJ.
What Are Knocked Knees (Genu Valgum)?
Knocked knees occur when the knees tilt inward and touch while the ankles remain apart. This changes how weight is distributed across the knee joint.
In young children, mild genu valgum can be part of normal growth. However, persistent or severe alignment may cause uneven stress on cartilage and ligaments.
Causes of Knocked Knees
Genu valgum may result from:
- Natural growth and development
- Previous fractures affecting bone alignment
- Arthritis
- Obesity
- Congenital or developmental conditions
An accurate diagnosis helps determine whether the alignment is expected to improve or requires intervention.
Symptoms of Genu Valgum
You may experience:
- Visible inward angling of the knees
- Knee pain, especially on the outer side
- Fatigue with prolonged standing
- Altered walking pattern
- Increased risk of ligament strain
Over time, abnormal alignment can contribute to cartilage wear and the development of arthritis.
Diagnosing Alignment Issues
A detailed physical exam and imaging studies, such as standing X-rays, help measure alignment and determine the severity of deformity.
Dr. Beiro evaluates both the mechanical alignment of the leg and the health of the knee joint to guide treatment planning.
Treatment Options for Knocked Knees
Treatment depends on age, severity, and symptoms.
Surgical Correction
For significant deformity or persistent pain, surgical correction may be recommended. Options may include:
- Guided growth procedures in adolescents
- Osteotomy to realign the leg
- Combined procedures if joint damage is present
These procedures aim to evenly distribute weight across the knee and reduce long-term joint damage.
Recovery and Long-Term Outlook
Recovery timelines vary depending on the type of surgery performed. Rehabilitation focuses on restoring strength, improving walking mechanics, and protecting joint health.
Correcting alignment can reduce pain and help prevent the progression of arthritis.
Why Choose Cristobal Beiro, MD, for Knocked Knees Treatment in Avenel, NJ?
Dr. Cris Beiro completed his orthopaedic training at Rutgers University – New Jersey School of Medicine and his sports medicine fellowship at Union Memorial Hospital in Baltimore. He has extensive experience treating complex knee conditions and alignment issues.
Board-certified and highly experienced in advanced knee surgery, Dr. Beiro is co-founder of Garden State Bone and Joint and serves as an attending physician at several area hospitals. His compassionate, evidence-based approach focuses on long-term joint preservation and improved patient outcomes.
Improve Alignment and Protect Your Knees
Knocked knees can affect your comfort, confidence, and long-term joint health. With expert evaluation and the right treatment plan, you can improve alignment and reduce pain.
If you’re concerned about genu valgum in Avenel, NJ, contact Cristobal Beiro, MD, at (732) 283-2663 to discuss your symptoms and available treatment options.
