What is knock-knees?

Knock-knees are a condition that affects the position of a child's legs. When a child has knock-knees, the lower legs angle away from the center of the body. This creates a wide space between the ankles when the knees touch. Parents often first notice this when their child is between 3 and 5 years old.

You may be worried about how your child's legs look and whether this will be a life-long condition. But most of the time it's a normal part of development. It usually gets better on its own. Having knock-knees usually doesn't cause pain. And it rarely prevents a child from taking part in sports and other physical activities.

The main symptom of knock-knees is space between the ankles when the knees touch. Your child may also seem clumsy or fall down.

The doctor will look at the position of your child's legs while your child stands. The doctor will check your child's legs, hips, and feet to make sure that some other problem isn't causing knock-knees.

Usually knock-knees don't need treatment. The doctor will check your child's legs as your child grows. Most children grow out of having knock-knees over time.

Take your child to all scheduled doctor appointments. Most cases of knock-knees go away over time as the child grows. Braces, exercises, and other corrective devices don't usually work to correct knock-knees.