Valgus knee is the term used to refer to knees that are facing inwards, leaving the legs shaped like an "x", resembling a little scissors. This is a deviation of the lower limb, also called valgus genus, which is normal in the development of children between 2 and 4 years of age.
When the child begins to walk, around 1 and 2 years old, it has a bit of knee varus, which is when the knees are arched and the legs are similar to those of a cowboy, that is, when the feet are joined, the knees do not lean.
In between 2 and 4 years old, genus varus usually evolves to valgus genus. From the age of 4 onwards, there is a gradual reduction of valgus, until by age 7 the deviation tends to be normalized in most children, although in some it persists into adulthood. The reason why these deformities remain in some people is not yet fully clarified.
Therefore, up to 2 years of age, varus knee is physiological, that is, it is normal and is part of the development of children, just as it is normal knee valgus between 2 and 4 years. These deviations occur because the ligaments of children's joints are loose, which decreases the joint stability of the knees.
During childhood, valgus genus and genus varus usually do not cause symptoms, as pain. However, in adulthood, a very sharp deviation can lead to joint wear and pain. This joint wear and tear can also lead to the development of early arthrosis if the person performs physical impact activity regularly.
However, it is important to remember that it is normal and acceptable to have some degrees of genus varus or valgus, without this necessarily signifying an orthopedic disease or problem.
For more information, consult an orthopedist.
