Understanding Bow Legs (Genu Varum)
Bowlegs, medically referred to as genu varum, are a condition where the knees stay widely apart when a person stands with their feet and ankles together. It’s often seen in toddlers, but in some cases, the condition may persist into adolescence or adulthood due to underlying health issues, untreated childhood deformities, or degenerative joint changes like osteoarthritis.
If left untreated, bowlegs can lead to more than just cosmetic concerns—they may cause chronic joint pain, gait abnormalities, and early-onset arthritis. So, when it comes to correction, one question dominates the minds of patients and parents alike: Is surgical or non-surgical treatment the right approach?
In this comprehensive guide, Dr. Divya Ahuja—renowned orthopaedic surgeon and limb deformity specialist—breaks down the difference between surgical and non-surgical bow leg correction to help you make an informed choice.
What Causes Bowlegs?
Before exploring the treatment options, it’s important to understand the possible causes of bowlegs:
- Physiological development in toddlers (often resolves naturally)
- Genetic predisposition
- Nutritional deficiencies, especially Vitamin D (rickets)
- Blount’s disease in growing children
- Degenerative joint diseases, such as osteoarthritis in adults
- Untreated childhood bone deformities
Each cause plays a role in determining whether non-surgical management is sufficient or if surgical correction is necessary.
Non-Surgical Bow Leg Correction: When and How?
Nonsurgical treatment is typically preferred in:
- Infants and toddlers with physiological bowlegs
- Mild deformities in children and young adults
- Patients for whom surgery is contraindicated or delayed
1. Observation and Monitoring
In children under age 3, bowlegs are often a normal part of growth and resolve without any intervention. Regular orthopaedic checkups help monitor the angle of curvature and ensure that natural correction is occurring.
2. Physical Therapy
Targeted physical therapy strengthens the leg muscles, corrects posture, and improves joint flexibility. Exercises focusing on:
- Hip abductors
- Quadriceps
- Core stability…can relieve strain and improve leg alignment, particularly in mild cases.
3. Orthotic Braces
Custom braces or orthotics may help guide bone growth in children with moderate deformities. These are most effective when used before the growth plates close, usually before adolescence.
4. Nutritional Correction
If bowlegs are due to rickets or nutritional deficiencies, high-dose Vitamin D, calcium, and phosphate supplements, alongside proper sun exposure and diet changes, can dramatically improve leg alignment.
Pros of Non-Surgical Treatment
- Non-invasive
- No surgical risks
- Effective in early-stage or mild cases
- Lower cost
- Ideal for growing children
Cons of Non-Surgical Treatment
- Limited effectiveness in moderate to severe deformities
- Slower results
- Not suitable for adults with fixed bony deformity
- Relies heavily on early diagnosis
Surgical Bow Leg Correction: A Definitive Option
For adolescents or adults with fixed deformity, or children with severe or worsening bowlegs, surgery becomes the gold standard.
Dr. Divya Ahuja, with his expertise in advanced orthopaedic procedures, provides individualised surgical options using cutting-edge techniques and precision planning tools.
1. Osteotomy
This involves cutting and realigning the bone (usually the tibia or femur) to correct the axis. It is often combined with:
- Internal fixation using plates, rods, or screws
- External fixators like Ilizarov or Taylor Spatial Frames for gradual correction
2. Guided Growth Surgery
A minimally invasive technique is performed in growing children, where a small metal plate is placed near the growth plate to guide bone development. Once alignment is achieved, the plate is removed.
3. Total Knee Replacement
In adults with severe arthritis and joint degeneration, TKR is performed not only to relieve pain but also to correct leg alignment.
4. Limb Lengthening and Correction
For patients with bow legs and leg length discrepancy, limb lengthening with external or internal devices corrects both issues simultaneously.
Pros of Surgical Treatment
- Immediate and permanent correction
- Suitable for moderate to severe deformities
- Restores mechanical axis and gait
- Prevents joint degeneration and arthritis
Cons of Surgical Treatment
- Involves anaesthesia and hospitalisation
- Recovery time: 6–12 weeks, depending on procedure
- Risk of complications (infection, bleeding, delayed union)
- Higher initial cost
Which Treatment Is Right for You?
The decision between surgical vs non-surgical treatment depends on several factors:
| Factor | Nonsurgical | Surgical |
| Age | Ideal for children under 7 | Best for teens and adults |
| Severity | Mild to moderate | Moderate to severe |
| Growth plates | Open (growing) | Closed (skeletal maturity) |
| Cause | Physiological, rickets | Blount’s disease, arthritis |
| Symptoms | Asymptomatic or mild | Pain, instability, gait problems |
| Cosmetic concern | Less effective | More effective |
Dr. Divya Ahuja: Your Trusted Specialist for Bow Leg Correction
If you’re considering bowleg correction, choosing the right orthopaedic surgeon is just as important as the procedure itself. Dr. Divya Ahuja, who is recognised as one of India’s leading experts in correcting limb deformities, offers:
- Advanced diagnostic tools, including digital alignment analysis
- Expertise in both minimally invasive and complex surgical techniques
- Patient-first approach with customised treatment plans
- High success rate with minimal recurrence
Patients from across the country and around the world trust Dr. Ahuja for his precision, compassion, and commitment to restoring mobility and confidence.
Conclusion: Surgical vs Non-Surgical— Make an Informed Decision
Bowlegs can affect your quality of life, posture, and joint health. Whether you’re a parent concerned about your child’s development or an adult struggling with knee pain and deformity, early intervention is key.
- Mild cases in children often benefit from non-surgical options like bracing, therapy, and nutrition.
- Severe or persistent cases, especially in adolescents and adults, usually require surgery for meaningful correction.
Consult a specialist like Dr. Divya Ahuja to determine the best course of action based on your individual needs.
Our Clinical Locations
Tap a location to view timings, contact, and map.
Broadway Healthcare, Dadar East
Broadway Healthcare, Dadar East
Clinic Info
- 📍 Broadway Healthcare, Dadar East, Mumbai
- 🕒 Wednesdays · 10:00 AM – 12:00 NOON
- 📞 Appointments: +91 93213 17227
Sweet Clinics, Vashi, Navi Mumbai
Sweet Clinics, Vashi, Navi Mumbai
Clinic Info
- 📍 Sweet Clinics, Vashi, Navi Mumbai
- 🕒 Fridays · 10:00 AM – 12:00 NOON
- 📞 Appointments: +91 93213 17227
Heal Well Speciality Clinic, Thane West
Heal Well Speciality Clinic, Thane West
Clinic & OPD Info
- 📍 Heal Well Speciality Clinic, Thane West
- 🕒 Every Wednesday 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
- 📞 Appointments: +91 81691 04438
Mangal Anand Hospital, Chembur Mumbai
Mangal Anand Hospital, Chembur Mumbai
Clinic & OPD Info
- 📍 Mangal Anand Hospital, Chembur Mumbai
- 🕒 Monday, Wednesday, Friday 03-07 PM, Thursday 06-07 PM, Free OPD Saturday 02-04 PM
- 📞 Appointments: +91 70212 18182
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is bowleg correction necessary if there is no pain?
Yes, even if there’s no pain now, untreated bow legs can cause long-term issues like arthritis or joint wear.
At what age should I consider surgery for bow legs?
Surgery is typically considered after growth plates have closed (around age 12–14 in girls and 14–16 in boys) or in adults with symptoms.
Can physical therapy alone correct bow legs?
Only in mild cases or when the bones are still growing can physical therapy alone correct bow legs. In adults or severe deformities, therapy alone won’t realign bones.
Is the surgical correction permanent?
Yes, surgical correction is permanent in adults. In children, recurrence is rare if done properly and followed up.
How long is recovery after surgery?
Depending on the procedure, recovery typically takes 6–12 weeks for osteotomy or guided growth. Full return to sports may take 3–6 months.
Are braces effective for teenagers?
Braces are most effective before adolescence, usually under age 10. They’re less effective once bones are mature.
Will insurance cover the treatment?
Most medical insurance plans cover bowleg correction when it is medically indicated, especially in cases involving pain or functional limitation.
Can bow legs come back after surgery?
Rarely. With proper technique and follow-up, recurrence is minimal. Children may need monitoring as they continue to grow.
Is bow leg surgery painful?
Pain is manageable with medications and subsides in a few days. Discomfort is minimal with modern surgical techniques.
How do I consult Dr. Divya Ahuja for treatment?
You can schedule a consultation with Dr. Divya Ahuja through his clinic or hospital website. his team provides both in-person and online evaluations.
