Understanding Bowlegs: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
What Are Bowlegs?
Bowlegs, medically known as genu varum, is a condition where the legs curve outward at the knees while the ankles remain together. It is common in infants due to their fetal positioning in the womb, and in most cases, the legs straighten naturally as the child grows and begins to walk. However, if the bowing persists beyond early childhood or appears later in life, it may indicate an underlying condition requiring medical attention.
Bowlegs can affect a person’s posture and how they walk (gait), potentially leading to joint misalignment and stress over time. The degree of bowing can vary from mild to severe, and its impact on daily activities depends on a person's underlying cause and individual anatomy.
What Does It Feel Like to Have Bowlegs?
Individuals may experience these bowleg symptoms:
A noticeable outward curvature of the legs when standing with feet together
Knee and hip discomfort, especially after physical activity
Instability while walking or running
Limited mobility, particularly in the hips and knees
Increased stress on the joints, which can lead to arthritis over time
Fatigue in the legs due to inefficient movement patterns
Lower back pain resulting from compensatory postural adjustments
The severity of symptoms varies, with some individuals experiencing minimal discomfort, while others may have significant pain and difficulty moving.
What Causes Bowlegs?
Several factors and conditions can contribute to bowlegs, including:
Physiological Bowing – Common in infants and young children, this naturally corrects itself by age 3 to 4.
Blount’s Disease – A growth disorder affecting the tibia (shin bone) that worsens over time, requiring medical intervention. It is more prevalent in children who begin walking at an early age.
Rickets – A vitamin D deficiency leading to weakened bones and improper growth. This condition can be prevented with proper nutrition and sun exposure.
Bone Dysplasia – Abnormal bone development due to genetic conditions, often leading to long-term mobility challenges.
Paget’s Disease – A metabolic disorder that disrupts normal bone remodeling, leading to deformities. It typically affects adults and may require lifelong management.
Poorly Healed Fractures – If a broken leg bone heals incorrectly, it may result in permanent bowing and uneven weight distribution across the joints.
Achondroplasia – A genetic disorder that leads to dwarfism and often results in bowlegs. This condition is associated with shorter limbs and joint laxity.
Lead or Fluoride Poisoning – Exposure to high levels of these substances can interfere with normal bone development, potentially leading to long-term health issues beyond bowlegs.
Why you can trust us:
We have multiple highly specialized, board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeons.
We know that we serve people - actual humans - not random orthopaedic conditions. That drives us to compassionate care.
The world of orthpaedics is constantly evolving. Our orthopaedic surgeons are constantly evaluating new techniques, tools and methods to serve our community even better.
We provide outcome-focused treatment. We work with our patients to achieve their goals, all while developing custom treatment plans that fit our patient's lives.
While mild bowing in young children often corrects itself, medical evaluation is necessary if:
The bowing persists beyond age 3
One leg is more bowed than the other
The condition worsens over time
There is pain, instability, or difficulty walking
An underlying disease is suspected
The bowing is accompanied by other developmental delays or bone abnormalities
Early intervention is crucial in cases linked to nutritional deficiencies or growth disorders, as timely treatment can improve outcomes.
If you are an adult dealing with bowlegs, you should consider seeking treatment if you experience:
Pain or discomfort in the knees, hips, or ankles.
Difficulty walking or standing for long periods.
Worsening bowing or noticeable asymmetry.
Frequent joint stiffness or instability.
Early signs of arthritis, such as swelling or reduced mobility.
If bowleggedness is interfering with daily activities or causing joint damage, consult a doctor or orthopedic specialist for evaluation and treatment options like physical therapy, braces, or surgery if necessary.
Why Treat Bowlegs?
Untreated bowlegs can lead to complications, including:
Increased risk of arthritis, particularly in the knees and hips, due to uneven joint stress
Gait abnormalities affecting posture and movement efficiency
Lower back pain from altered spinal alignment
Joint instability, making physical activities more challenging
Increased risk of injury, particularly in athletes and active individuals
Muscle imbalances, as the body compensates for misalignment
Diminished quality of life, as chronic pain and mobility issues impact daily activities
Treatment Options for Bowlegs
The appropriate treatment for bowlegs is individual and depends on the severity and underlying cause of the condition.
Non-Surgical Treatments for Bowlegs
Bracing or Orthotics – Used in children to guide proper bone growth and support alignment correction.
Physical Therapy – Strengthening muscles, improving posture, and enhancing mobility to alleviate discomfort and prevent progression.
Nutritional Supplements – Correcting deficiencies in vitamin D or calcium for cases related to rickets, often combined with diet modifications.
Weight Management – Reducing excess body weight to minimize joint stress and prevent the worsening of the condition.
Low-Impact Exercises – Activities such as swimming or cycling can help strengthen leg muscles without excessive joint strain.
Surgical Treatment for Bowlegs
For severe cases, especially in teenagers and adults, surgery may be necessary. Osteotomy is the most common procedure, which involves:
Making an incision near the knee.
Cutting and realigning the tibia (or femur, in some cases) to correct the bowing.
Inserting bone grafts and securing the bone with plates, screws, or external fixators.
Undergoing physical therapy post-surgery to restore mobility and prevent stiffness.
Recovery from an osteotomy can take 3 to 6 months, it depends on the complexity of the procedure. Patients typically require crutches or braces initially and gradually return to normal activities.
What Type of Orthopedic Doctor to See?
If you suspect bowlegs in yourself or your child, consult a pediatric orthopedic specialist for children or an adult orthopedic surgeon for adults.
Bowlegs can be a normal part of early childhood development but may also indicate underlying health issues. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can prevent complications, improve mobility, and enhance overall quality of life. If you or a loved one has persistent bowlegs, consult one of our orthopedic specialists to explore the best treatment options. Understanding the causes and potential impact of bowlegs can empower you to seek timely medical advice and make informed decisions about their health.
This blog post is meant to be informative and should not act as a self-diagnosis tool. If you’d like to see one of our doctors, please contact us here.
If you’ve been experiencing numbness, tingling, or pain in your wrist and fingers, you might be wondering if you have carpal tunnel syndrome. Carpal tunnel is a common condition that affects millions of people. It can significantly impact daily activities. Understanding carpal tunnel syndrome can help you take steps toward relief and prevention.
The Daily Struggle with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Living with carpal tunnel syndrome can be incredibly frustrating and disruptive. Simple daily tasks like typing, holding a phone, gripping a steering wheel, or even buttoning a shirt can become painful and difficult. Many people struggle with sleep due to tingling and numbness, waking them up in the middle of the night. Even work productivity can suffer, especially for those in jobs requiring repetitive hand movements, such as office workers, hairstylists, and factory workers. If you have hobbies involving heavy use of your hands, like crocheting, cooking, or playing an instrument, carpal tunnel syndrome can cause them to become challenging. Dealing with this persistent discomfort and unpredictability of symptoms can be frustrating and lead to fatigue, impacting your overall well-being and quality of life.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, What is It?
It's a pretty commonly known condition, but what is it? Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) happens when the median nerve, running from your forearm into your hand, becomes compressed at your wrist. This nerve passes through the carpal tunnel, which is a narrow passageway in your wrist that is surrounded by your bones and ligaments. This tunnel can become too narrow due to swelling or inflammation, and when this happens, it puts pressure on the median nerve, which leads to the symptoms accompanying carpal tunnel syndrome.
Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel symptoms often start gradually and may worsen over time, making it important to know the common signs.
Common signs of possible carpal tunnel syndrome include:
Tingling or numbness: This often affects the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers, but specifically not the pinky. The sensation can also extend up the arm.
Pain or discomfort: It is common for many people to feel aching or burning pain in the wrist, palm, or forearm.
Weakness: If you have carpal tunnel, you might notice that your grip strength has weakened, making it harder to hold objects or perform fine motor tasks.
Nighttime symptoms: With carpal tunnel syndrome, your symptoms will often worsen at night, sometimes waking you up from sleep with a need to shake out your hands.
The gradual onset of carpal tunnel symptoms can sometimes make it more difficult to realize what might be going on. If you have some or all of these symptoms, we recommend seeing one of our orthopaedic hand & wrist specialists. Seeking a proper diagnosis will help you get set on the right treatment plan for you and relieve your discomfort.
Why you can trust us:
We have multiple highly specialized, board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeons.
We know that we serve people - actual humans - not random orthopaedic conditions. That drives us to compassionate care.
The world of orthpaedics is constantly evolving. Our orthopaedic surgeons are constantly evaluating new techniques, tools and methods to serve our community even better.
We provide outcome-focused treatment. We work with our patients to achieve their goals, all while developing custom treatment plans that fit our patient's lives.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Symptoms vs. Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Symptoms
While carpal tunnel syndrome and cubital tunnel syndrome share some similarities, they affect distinctly different areas and nerves. It can seem easy to confuse by name, but once you understand each condition, you can better determine which may be causing your pain.
Below is a quick comparison of the symptoms:
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Affects the ulnar nerve at the elbow
Pain radiates from elbow to hand
Symptoms include pinky and ring finger numbness
Symptoms may worsen with elbow flexion
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Affects the median nerve at the wrist
Pain typically radiates from wrist to hand
Symptoms include thumb and index finger numbness
Symptoms worsen with wrist flexion
Causes and Risk Factors
Carpal tunnel syndrome can be caused by anything that puts pressure on the median nerve.
Some common causes and risk factors include:
Repetitive hand movements: Frequent typing, using a mouse, or assembly line work can contribute to CTS by causing repetitive strain on the wrist and tendons, leading to swelling.
Wrist position: Holding the wrist in a bent position for long periods, such as when using a phone, sleeping, or driving, can increase the likelihood of nerve compression.
Medical conditions: Conditions such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid disorders, and obesity can increase inflammation or fluid retention, which may contribute to carpal tunnel syndrome.
Injury or swelling: Fractures, sprains, or direct trauma to the wrist can lead to swelling and narrowing of the carpal tunnel, putting pressure on the median nerve.
Hormonal changes: Pregnancy and menopause can cause issues with fluid retention and swelling. Which increases the risk of developing CTS.
Genetics: It is possible to be genetically prone to carpal tunnel syndrome. Some people can simply be born with a smaller carpal tunnel. Having this smaller tunnel can make you more prone to nerve compression.
Work environment: Jobs that require forceful or repetitive hand movements, vibrating tools, or prolonged wrist flexion can heighten the risk of developing CTS.
If you suspect you have CTS, it's important to see an orhtopaedic specialist to evaluate your symptoms and condition. An orthopaedic hand doctor can accurately diagnose the condition and set you on the right path to finding relief.
What will an orhtopaedic hand doctor do to diagnose your condition:
Physical exam: Checking for tingling, numbness, and muscle weakness.
Tinel’s test: Tapping on the median nerve to see if it triggers tingling.
Phalen’s test: Holding your wrists in a flexed position to see if symptoms develop.
Nerve conduction studies: Measuring how well electrical signals travel through the median nerve.
Imaging: MRI or an ultrasound can create detailed images of the carpal tunnel, helping to confirm CTS and identify any other underlying issues.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment
If you are struggling with possible carpal tunnel pain in your wrists, the good news is that carpal tunnel syndrome is treatable! The treatment options for your CTS may vary depending on the severity of your symptoms and may include:
Lifestyle changes: Adjusting work habits such as improving ergonomics, and taking breaks can help relieve pressure on the nerve.
Wrist splints: Wearing a wrist splint, especially at night, can help keep your wrist in a neutral position, letting it rest, and reduce symptoms.
Ice and anti-inflammatory medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can be useful to help reduce swelling and discomfort.
Exercises and physical therapy: Specific stretches and strengthening exercises can improve wrist mobility and nerve function.
Steroid injections: For some, steroid injections are a great option to address the pain you are experiencing from your carpal tunnel syndrome. Corticosteroid shots can help reduce the inflammation in your wrist and provide you temporary relief from your pain.
Surgery: In severe cases, a procedure called carpal tunnel release surgery can create more space for the median nerve, relieving symptoms.
While not all cases of CTS can be prevented, you can take steps to lower your risk of developing it.
Here are a few examples of steps you can proactively take to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome:
Maintain proper wrist posture: With the prevalence of desk and keyboard work, improper ergonomics can greatly impact your wrist issues. It can be beneficial to help prevent this if you focus on proper ergonomics and keep your wrists straight while typing and using your mouse.
Take breaks: If your work or hobbies involve performing repetitive tasks, it is important to make sure you give your hands a rest.
Stretch regularly: Regularly doing simple hand and wrist stretches can help keep your median nerve from becoming compressed.
Use ergonomic tools: A well-designed keyboard, mouse, or wrist support can reduce strain.
Stay active and healthy: Managing conditions like diabetes and arthritis can help prevent CTS from developing.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Stretches
Here are some simple hand and wrist stretches to help with carpal tunnel syndrome relief:
1. Wrist Flexor Stretch
Extend one arm straight with your palm facing up.
Use your other hand to gently pull your fingers down and back.
Hold for 15–30 seconds, then switch hands.
2. Wrist Extensor Stretch
Extend one arm straight with your palm facing down.
Use your other hand to pull your fingers toward you.
Hold for 15–30 seconds, then switch hands.
3. Prayer Stretch
Place your palms together in front of your chest (like a prayer).
Slowly lower your hands while keeping your palms together until you feel a stretch.
Hold for 15–30 seconds.
4. Median Nerve Glide
Make a fist with your thumb tucked in.
Slowly open your fingers, extending them straight.
Then extend your thumb outward and stretch your wrist back slightly.
Repeat 5–10 times on each hand.
5. Shake It Out
Gently shake your hands for 10–15 seconds to relieve stiffness.
Try doing these 2–3 times a day to help with flexibility and reduce tension.
When to See a Doctor
If you’re experiencing persistent symptoms that are gradually worsening and interfere with daily activities, it’s best to see a healthcare provider. Seeking early intervention can prevent your condition from worsening and help you find relief sooner.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common but manageable condition. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options can help you take the right steps to relieve your discomfort and protect your hands! If you suspect you have CTS, making small changes now can make a big difference in your long-term hand health!
This blog post is meant to be informative and should not act as a self-diagnosis tool. If you’d like to see one of our doctors, please contact us here.
Dealing with hip bursitis can be a real pain—literally.
Whether you're experiencing discomfort in your hips due to inflammation or swelling, understanding this condition is vital to finding relief. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for hip bursitis empowers you to take control of your health and well-being.
What Is Hip Bursitis?
Hip bursitis, a form of arthritis, occurs when the bursa, fluid-filled sacs that cushion your joints, become inflamed and angry. Repetitive activities or injuries often cause it because this can result in pain and swelling around the hips, making everyday activities challenging. The result? Pain, tenderness, and swelling around your hip area. The first sign? Sharp pain at first that can settle into a nagging ache over time. Watch for swelling, warmth, and even redness around your hip.
Why you can trust us:
We have multiple OrthopaedicSurgeons who specialize in hips.
We have a whole-body health approach when it comes to orthopaedic care.
Our dedicated physical therapy team works with patients with hip issues to resolve discomfort and get them back to doing what they love.
Repetitive motions - Like those from work or sports
Injuries
Infections
Poor posture
Aging
Understanding the underlying causes can aid in prevention and management strategies. Think of hip bursitis as your body's way of saying "ouch" to alert you to overuse, injury, or poor posture. Even getting older can make you more prone to hip bursitis. Understanding the triggers can help you prevent future episodes. It's like your body's saying, "Hey, take it easy!"
Recognizing Symptoms of Hip Bursitis
Recognizing the symptoms of hip bursitis is essential for early intervention. Hip bursitis isn't shy about letting you know it's there.
If you are feeling pain, tenderness, or swelling around your hip, especially when you move, it might be hip bursitis.
Other signs include:
Limping
Difficulty lifting your knee
Altered gait
Hip pain when lying down or climbing stairs
From pain and tenderness to swelling and altered gait, understanding these signs can help you seek timely treatment.
Factors that Aggervate Hip Bursitis
Hip bursitis isn't shy about making itself known. Activities like lying down for too long or walking distances can further irritate the bursa, adding "fuel to the fire." Some exercises and certain conditions, like rheumatoid arthritis or poor posture, can exacerbate hip bursitis, so keeping these in check is essential.
Meet our Hip Experts
Hip Bursitis Treatment
Managing hip bursitis involves a multifaceted approach to reducing inflammation and promoting healing. So, what can you do about it?
Fortunately, there are a few things you can implement yourself to find relief:
At-Home Hip Bursitis Treatment
Resting:
Resting the affected hip is crucial for reducing inflammation and promoting healing. Avoid activities that exacerbate pain and discomfort.
Apply Heat:
Heat therapy, such as warm compresses or heating pads, can help relax muscles. It can increase blood flow to the affected area, promoting healing and soothing pain.
Ice Packs:
Applying ice packs to the painful area can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain. Ice therapy can be done several times a day for about 15-20 minutes.
Medication:
Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve) can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
Eating healthily and staying active can also help manage hip bursitis. Resting gives your hip a chance to recover, while a balanced diet supports overall healing. Stay active, but don't overdo it! If the pain persists, consult with an orthopaedic specialist for a tailored treatment plan.
Common Medical Treatment
There are other treatments your doctor may recommend for relief, such as:
Pain medications
Steroid injections
Physical therapy
Addressing hip bursitis with physical therapy gives you the advantage of tailored exercises that can work wonders, strengthening your hip and easing discomfort. Seeing a trained physical therapist is essential because knowing which exercises to avoid is just as crucial as knowing which ones to embrace.
Healing and Preventing Hip Bursitis
Prevention is the key when it comes to hip bursitis.
Simple lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and correcting posture, can help prevent the recurrence of this painful condition.
Taking breaks during repetitive activities and tasks, to give your hip a breather.
Pay attention to maintaining good posture
Staying active without overdoing it can all help keep hip bursitis at bay.
And don't forget to listen to your body— it knows best!
They say prevention is the best medicine, and it's true for hip bursitis too.
Early intervention is key to healing hip bursitis. Ice packs and rest can kickstart the process, followed by a visit to an orthopedic specialist for tailored guidance. If you feel like you're experiencing hip bursitis without relief, reach out and make an appointment with one of our orthopaedic specialists.
If you are experiencing hip bursitis, there are some specific things to avoid. Avoid things like running, deep squats, and leg lifts. Even cardio machines can be a no-go because they put too much pressure on your already irritated hips. Instead, focus on gentle stretches and movements that support rather than strain your hip joints.
Dealing with hip bursitis can be challenging, but it's not something you have to put up with forever; relief is within your reach with the proper knowledge and proactive steps. By understanding hip bursitis and its causes, recognizing its symptoms, and knowing how to address it effectively, you can manage it and get back to feeling like yourself again. Don't let hip bursitis hold you back.
This blog post is meant to be informative and should not act as a self-diagnosis tool. If you’d like to see one of our doctors, please contact us here.
