Knee and foot disorders in children can affect mobility, growth, and overall development. Some conditions are present at birth, while others develop as a child grows. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent complications and ensure proper joint and bone function.
Children’s bones and joints are still developing, making them more adaptable to treatment. Common knee and foot disorders include bow legs, knock knees, flat feet, clubfoot, and Sever’s disease. While some conditions resolve on their own, others may require medical intervention.
Common Paediatric Knee Disorders
Bow Legs (Genu Varum)
Bow legs are a condition where a child’s knees remain wide apart when standing with their feet together. This is common in infants and usually corrects itself as the child grows. However, persistent bow legs beyond early childhood may require evaluation and treatment to prevent long-term joint problems.
Knock Knees (Genu Valgum)
Knock knees occur when a child’s knees touch but their ankles remain apart. This condition is often part of normal development and improves with age. If it persists beyond childhood or causes pain, bracing or surgical correction may be needed.
Osgood-Schlatter Disease
This condition causes knee pain and swelling due to inflammation of the growth plate at the top of the shinbone. It commonly affects active children and teenagers who participate in sports. Treatment typically includes rest, physiotherapy, and pain management.
Patellar Instability & Dislocation
Some children may experience frequent kneecap dislocations due to loose ligaments or abnormal bone structure. Treatment options range from physiotherapy to surgical stabilisation, depending on severity.
Common Paediatric Foot Disorders
Flat Feet
Flat feet occur when the arches of the feet do not develop properly. While many children outgrow this condition, some may experience pain or difficulty walking. Treatment may involve supportive footwear, physiotherapy, or orthotic inserts.
Clubfoot
Clubfoot is a congenital condition where a baby’s foot is twisted inward. Without treatment, it can lead to walking difficulties. The Ponseti method, involving gentle manipulation and casting, is the preferred treatment approach for correcting clubfoot.
Sever’s Disease
Sever’s disease is a common cause of heel pain in growing children, particularly those involved in sports. It results from inflammation of the heel’s growth plate due to repetitive stress. Treatment includes rest, stretching, and proper footwear.
Toe Walking
Some children walk on their toes rather than placing their heels on the ground. While this can be normal in toddlers, persistent toe walking may indicate an underlying condition such as tight Achilles tendons or neurological disorders. Treatment may involve physiotherapy, stretching exercises, or bracing.
Diagnosis of Knee & Foot Disorders
Diagnosis typically involves:
- Physical Examination – Assessing gait, posture, and range of motion.
- Imaging Tests – X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI to evaluate bone structure and joint alignment.
- Gait Analysis – Examining walking patterns to identify abnormalities.
Treatment Options for Knee & Foot Disorders
Non-Surgical Treatment
- Bracing & Orthotics – Custom braces or shoe inserts help support alignment and relieve pain.
- Physiotherapy – Strengthening exercises improve stability and mobility.
- Pain Management – Anti-inflammatory medications and activity modifications reduce discomfort.
Surgical Treatment
- Corrective Surgery – For severe cases of misalignment or deformity, surgery may be required to realign bones and joints.
- Tendon Lengthening Procedures – Used to correct tight tendons affecting foot positioning.
- Growth Modulation Surgery – Helps guide bone growth in cases of persistent knock knees or bow legs.
Why Choose Advanced Orthopaedics for Paediatric Knee & Foot Disorders?
Specialist Paediatric Orthopaedic Care
Led by Dr Sarbjit Singh, a Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, our clinic provides diagnosis and personalised treatment plans for paediatric knee and foot conditions.
Comprehensive Assessment & Treatment
We utilise modern diagnostic tools and a multidisciplinary approach to address knee and foot disorders in children, ensuring the best possible outcomes.
Family-Centred Approach
Our team works closely with families to provide education, support, and tailored treatment strategies, ensuring children receive the best care for long-term joint and foot health.
Take the Next Step
If your child has symptoms of a knee or foot disorder, our team at Advanced Orthopaedics is here to help. Schedule a consultation today to explore treatment options and ensure your child’s mobility and comfort.
