At the Diamond Valley Foot & Ankle in Greensborough a common question and concern of new parents and parents alike is whether their childs development is ‘normal’.
One thing to remember is that Children develop and reach their milestones at different times and in some cases their walking can appear unusual. This is completely normal and in most cases no treatment is required. Here are some helpful tips that may help you with your concerns:
Bowlegs
Bowleg is a common term used to describe outward curving of the leg that occurs in almost all children. When a child’s ankles are placed together then there is a gap seen between the knees. Children are born bowlegged and as they begin to stand and walk the legs begin to straighten out on their own from approximately 18 months of age the issue has usually resolved by 2 years old. They usually require no intervention. Only very occasionally do some severe cases require to be referred to an orthopaedic consultant.
Knocked Knees
Knock Knees describes the position when the knees come together and the lower legs angle outwards. It can be seen one or both legs. It is most evident around the ages of 3 or 4 and may persist for a few years before it begins to improve (usually resolved by 5-7 years). This is a normal stage of growth. Children do not usually require treatment but occasionally may require further investigation if there are other concerns.
In-Toeing
Often children walk with their toes turned in. This is called in-toeing and is a normal part development for toddlers. As they reach skeletal maturity this should reduce and often no treatment is required. Children who in-toe may tend to trip more than their peers.
Young children often W-sit on the floor, where they sit with their bottom on the floor between their feet. This should be discouraged as it reinforces the in-toeing and knock knee pattern.
Please note that all children develop at a different rate and if there are further concerns regarding development e.g. if the problem is one side rather than both sides, there is a family history of the issues that have not been resolved or the issue remains past the average age then please contact the clinic for further assessment or discuss with your family Doctor.
At the Diamond Valley Foot & Ankle Clinic in Greensborough we pride ourselves on our assessment and treatment so please do not hesitate to contact us should any of the above concern you. 9434 4422
