We recently ran a feature on the benefits of physiotherapy for knock knees, but today we’re looking at the opposite of that – physiotherapy for bow legs. While not technically the opposite of the former, it does aesthetically appear so. So what exactly are bow legs? It is a condition where the legs curve outward at the knees, causing the knees to remain far apart even when the feet and ankles are together. The condition is very common in young children and often resolves on its own as adolescents grow, with the bowing typically correcting by age 3 or 4. However, it does persist into adulthood for a number of people. As someone who has come online and searched “physiotherapy for bow legs” it’s safe to assume that you have identified (or have been told) that you exhibit the stance, and want to connect to a physiotherapist to help. Our Burnaby BC clinic is here for you. Call 604.558.2273 or email [email protected] to take corrective action right away, or read ahead first for some helpful information.
Why You Have Bow Legs and Why Our Physiotherapy Clinic is Where to Come for Correction
Reasons for Bow Legs
Before we address why we’re the most qualified physiotherapist for bow legs correction, it helps to understand what may be altering the position of your lower body while standing and walking. We can narrow down the causes of bow legs that a physiotherapist can directly address. These include the following
- Early injury or trauma to the growth area (i.e. thighbone) followed by improper healing can disrupt bone growth and prevent bow legs from resolving on their own.
- Early infections in the thighbone (femur) can cause abnormal bone growth, disrupt bone growth, and prevent common childhood bow legs from resolving on their own.
- Early metabolic diseases or renal failure that can affect bone metabolism and disrupt bone growth and prevent common childhood bow legs from resolving on their own.
- Genetics, as in many cases bow legs run in the family.
- A poor gait (walking pattern) can contribute to or exacerbate the issue, straining the thighs and leading to or worsening the condition.
- Rickets, which is a bone-softening disease caused by a deficiency of vitamin D, calcium, or phosphorus.
- Congenital conditions that may cause result h a predisposition to bow legs.
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Achondroplasia, which is a genetic disorder that is associated with shorter limbs and can result in bow legs.
- Obesity, in that unhealthy weight gain can put additional strain on the thighs and legs.
- Less common causes include other bone infections, hip dysplasia, and arthritis.
How Our Physiotherapists Will Help
In all cases above, a physiotherapist from our Burnaby BC clinic can help, with varying degrees depending upon age and how long you have lived with bow legs. In all scenarios, physiotherapy treatments for bow legs are about the same, focusing on restoring proper alignment and strength to the thighs, hips, calves, and ankles, in addition to addressing underlying muscle imbalances. This involves a combination of manual therapy, stretching programs, and exercise programs that can be employed in-clinic and at time. In some cases, athletic-taping in addition to custom orthotics may be prescribed to help realign the legs. Treatment will essentially focuses on strengthening weak muscles, stretching tight ones, and improving overall body alignment. Common exercises for bow legs include hip abduction and rotation movements like clamshells to strengthen the outer hip, and stretching exercises for the inner and outer thighs and quadriceps. Low-impact activities like cycling and swimming, and balance exercises are also beneficial and may be recommended by our team of physiotherapists. Lastly, members of our team are qualified to provide nutrition and lifestyle advise to help correct the issue, where applicable.
Ready to stand and walk with confidence? Schedule an assessment at our Burnaby BC clinic today!
Correct Your Bow Legs Today!
(Burnaby and Vancouver residents)