Question
At what age is it best to treat X-shaped legs?
Answer
Most children between the ages of 2 and 6 will correct their X-shaped legs without treatment. Severe genu varum, especially in children under 8 years old, may require specialized intervention. X-shaped legs typically refer to genu varum, a deformity of the knee joint, and its association with growth and development. For overweight children and those with pathological genu varum, a genu varum brace can be used during the day. The purpose of this brace is to stabilize the knee ligaments and control the load on the distal femur, proximal tibia, and lateral epiphysis. The brace is usually worn for 1 to 2 years. If non-surgical treatment is ineffective during the night when the knee is not bearing weight, surgical treatment may be inappropriate.