O-Shaped Legs: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Q: O-Shaped Legs: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Hi： Hello, Q1： I was told as a child that I had slightly O-shaped legs and a tendency for external rotation. <br>I didn't pay much attention to it and it didn't affect me much, but now that I'm in high school (17 years old), I often experience unusual leg soreness, especially aft

Correction of Bow Legs

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask some questions regarding my O-shaped legs.
Since childhood, I have been told that I have slightly O-shaped legs and an outward foot position.
I didn't pay much attention to it and it didn't affect me much, but after entering high school (I am now 17 years old), I have been experiencing unusual leg soreness, especially after exercising.
This soreness is different from what one would typically experience, and it even affects my lower body (including my glutes and thigh muscles).

(1) I would like to know if this abnormal soreness is related to my O-shaped legs.

(2) Do O-shaped legs affect my athletic performance as well as my standing and sitting posture?
(3) How can I correct or treat this condition?
P.S.
(1) My parents believe this is hereditary, and my O-shaped leg condition has become somewhat severe, with a gap of about 3 centimeters between my knees.
(2) When walking and standing, my weight tends to be on the outer side of my feet, and my shoes show slight wear but not excessively.
(3) I have been riding a bicycle for 20 minutes every day since the fifth grade, and I am unsure if this has impacted the development of my legs.

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/10/31

Dr. Li Weiqiang reply Rehabilitation

Hi: Hello, Q1: I was told as a child that I had slightly O-shaped legs and a tendency for external rotation.
I didn't pay much attention to it and it didn't affect me much, but now that I'm in high school (17 years old), I often experience unusual leg soreness, especially after exercising.
It's a type of soreness that typically doesn't occur, and sometimes my entire lower body (including my glutes and thigh muscles) feels sore.
Could this abnormal soreness be related to my O-shaped legs? A1: Not necessarily.
Many people with O-shaped legs do not experience symptoms.
You can lie flat and bring your legs together to see the distance between your knees; the greater the distance, the more severe the O-shaped legs.
Q2: Do O-shaped legs affect posture, standing, and sitting? A2: Yes, they can affect posture and may appear less aesthetically pleasing.
Symptoms usually arise only with overuse or injury.
Q3: How can I correct or treat this? A3: During the developmental phase (before age 6), insoles can be used for mild cases.
Before puberty, braces may be necessary for correction.
Once growth is complete, treatment becomes difficult unless symptoms arise, in which case surgical intervention may be considered, although surgery is rarely performed solely for cosmetic reasons.
Q4: My parents believe this is hereditary.
Currently, my O-shaped legs are somewhat severe, with a gap of about 3 centimeters between my knees.
When walking or standing, my weight tends to be on the outside of my feet.
My shoes show slight wear but not excessively.
A4: A 3-centimeter gap is not considered severe.
You could try using insoles to adjust the position of your ankles and feet to alleviate symptoms.
Q5: I started riding my bike for 20 minutes every day in fifth grade.
I wonder if this could affect the development of my legs? A5: The likelihood is low.
Wishing you safety and health, Dr.
Li Wei-Chiang, Attending Physician, Department of Rehabilitation, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2017/10/31

More Info

Understanding O-shaped legs, also known as genu varum, is essential for addressing the concerns you've raised. O-shaped legs are characterized by a noticeable outward curvature of the lower legs, which can lead to various symptoms and complications, especially during adolescence when the body is still developing.

(1) Relationship Between O-Shaped Legs and Unusual Muscle Soreness
The unusual soreness you experience, particularly after physical activity, can indeed be related to your O-shaped legs. When the legs are misaligned, it can lead to uneven distribution of weight and stress on the joints and muscles. This misalignment can cause certain muscle groups to work harder to stabilize the body during movement, leading to fatigue and soreness. The discomfort you feel in your lower body, including the hips and thighs, may be a result of compensatory mechanisms your body employs to maintain balance and mobility.

(2) Impact of O-Shaped Legs on Posture and Movement
O-shaped legs can significantly affect your posture, gait, and overall biomechanics. When standing or walking, the weight is often shifted to the outer edges of the feet, which can lead to improper alignment of the knees and hips. This misalignment can result in a variety of issues, including:
- Altered Gait: You may notice that your walking pattern is different from those with straight legs, which can lead to increased wear and tear on the joints.

- Postural Issues: The curvature can affect your overall posture, potentially leading to back pain or discomfort in the spine.

- Increased Risk of Injury: The abnormal stress on the joints can increase the risk of injuries, particularly in sports or physical activities.

(3) Treatment and Correction Options
Addressing O-shaped legs and the associated symptoms typically involves a combination of approaches:
- Consultation with a Specialist: It's crucial to consult with an orthopedic specialist or a physical therapist who can assess your condition. They may perform physical examinations and imaging studies (like X-rays) to determine the severity of the curvature and its impact on your body.

- Physical Therapy: A tailored physical therapy program can help strengthen the muscles around the knees, hips, and core, improving stability and alignment. Specific exercises may focus on enhancing flexibility and strength in the inner thigh muscles, which can help counteract the outward pull of the legs.

- Orthotic Devices: In some cases, custom orthotics may be recommended to help correct your gait and redistribute weight more evenly across your feet. This can alleviate some of the discomfort associated with O-shaped legs.

- Bracing: For younger individuals, especially those still growing, braces may be used to help guide the bones into a more aligned position. However, this is typically more effective in younger children than in teenagers.

- Surgical Options: In severe cases where O-shaped legs lead to significant functional impairment or pain, surgical intervention may be considered. Procedures such as osteotomy can realign the bones and improve leg function. However, this is usually a last resort and is carefully evaluated based on individual circumstances.

Additional Considerations
Regarding your concerns about riding a bicycle, moderate cycling can be beneficial for overall leg strength and cardiovascular fitness. However, if you experience pain while cycling, it may be worth evaluating your bike's fit and your riding posture, as improper alignment can exacerbate discomfort.

In summary, while O-shaped legs can lead to discomfort and functional issues, there are various treatment options available. Early intervention and a proactive approach can help manage symptoms and improve your overall quality of life. It’s essential to seek professional guidance to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs.

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