O-Shaped Legs and Knee Cartilage Tumors: A Patient's Journey

O-shaped legs and knee chondromas?

Hello Doctor,
I would like to ask for your advice.
A few years ago, I started experiencing soreness in my feet, which sometimes extends to the soles, and I even feel pain in my heels while sitting.
I cannot stand or walk for long periods, and I often experience numbness and tingling.
Additionally, my calves seem to be getting more bowed, and there is a noticeable protrusion of the bone just below the outer side of my knees.
I visited an orthopedic specialist at a medical center, who said it was normal (without taking X-rays) and that I do not have bow legs, although at that time, I could no longer bring my feet together.
I also frequently experience swelling and pain on both the inner and outer sides of my knees.
The pain has persisted until now.
A few days ago, I consulted an orthopedic surgeon who recently opened his own practice, and he mentioned that I have developed osteochondromas on the inner sides of both knees.
He indicated that the protruding bones and the bowing of my legs cannot be corrected externally in adults and would require surgical intervention to break the bones for correction.

I am very scared and would like to know if there are any other options available.
The doctor who initially said I was normal did not examine my feet closely; he only asked me to squat and said there were no issues, which may have led to a delay in diagnosis.
Is there any oversight in this? Thank you for your help.

mika, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/07/23

Dr. Ye Qingnian reply Orthopedics

Bow legs can be visually identified without the need for X-rays.
In severe cases in adults, surgical intervention may be considered to realign the bones, and it is advisable to seek treatment at a medical center.
Additionally, if there are chondromas on the inner sides of both knees (possibly located on the medial aspect of the proximal tibia near the knee), this may be related to genetic factors and could contribute to knee joint pain.

Reply Date: 2004/07/23

More Info

O-shaped legs, also known as genu varum, can lead to various complications, including knee pain and discomfort in the lower extremities. Your description of persistent pain in the knees, especially on the outer side, along with the noticeable protrusion of the bone below the knee, suggests that the alignment of your legs is indeed affecting your knee joint health. The presence of a cartilage tumor, such as a chondroma, adds another layer of complexity to your situation.

Understanding O-Shaped Legs and Associated Issues
O-shaped legs can result from various factors, including genetic predisposition, developmental issues, or conditions such as rickets or osteomalacia. In adults, the condition often remains stable unless exacerbated by degenerative changes due to aging or injury. The pain you experience, particularly in the knees and the lower legs, may be attributed to the abnormal stress placed on the joints due to misalignment. This misalignment can lead to joint degeneration, inflammation, and pain, particularly in the knee's medial (inner) and lateral (outer) compartments.

Cartilage Tumors and Their Implications
The diagnosis of a cartilage tumor, such as a chondroma or chondrosarcoma, is concerning and requires careful evaluation. These tumors can cause localized pain and swelling, and they may contribute to the deformity of the leg over time. It is crucial to differentiate between benign and malignant tumors, as the treatment options and prognosis can vary significantly.

Treatment Options
1. Conservative Management: Initially, conservative treatments such as physical therapy, pain management with NSAIDs, and the use of orthotic devices can help alleviate symptoms. Strengthening the muscles around the knee and improving flexibility may also provide some relief.

2. Surgical Options: If conservative measures fail and the pain persists, surgical intervention may be necessary. The options include:
- Osteotomy: This procedure involves cutting the bone and realigning it to correct the deformity. It can help redistribute weight across the knee joint and alleviate pain.

- Tumor Resection: If the cartilage tumor is causing significant pain or is suspected to be malignant, surgical removal may be necessary. This can be done in conjunction with osteotomy if needed.

- Joint Replacement: In cases of severe degeneration or if the knee joint is significantly affected, total knee arthroplasty may be considered, especially if you are experiencing chronic pain and loss of function.

3. Monitoring and Follow-Up: Regular follow-up with an orthopedic specialist is essential to monitor the progression of both the O-shaped legs and the cartilage tumor. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs, may be necessary to assess changes over time.

Genetic Considerations
Regarding your daughter, while O-shaped legs can have a genetic component, it is essential to evaluate her condition independently. Early intervention can be beneficial, especially if there are signs of misalignment or discomfort. Consulting with a pediatric orthopedic specialist can provide guidance on monitoring her development and determining if any preventive measures or treatments are necessary.

Conclusion
Your concerns about the delay in diagnosis and treatment are valid. It is crucial for healthcare providers to conduct thorough evaluations, including imaging studies when necessary, to avoid misdiagnosis and ensure timely intervention. If you feel that your previous consultations did not adequately address your symptoms, seeking a second opinion from a specialized orthopedic surgeon may provide you with more clarity and options for treatment.
In summary, while O-shaped legs and associated knee pain can be challenging, there are various treatment avenues available. It is essential to work closely with your healthcare team to determine the best course of action tailored to your specific needs and circumstances.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Knee Cartilage Growth: Causes, Treatment, and Concerns

I have a friend whose son is 14 years old. Recently, he discovered a growth on the inner side of his right knee that is about the size of an egg, but there were no previous issues in that area. An X-ray examination report states: "A pedunculated bony outgrowth is seen on the...

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
What you described is a type of osteochondroma (also known as exostosis), which is usually benign and can typically be treated with surgical excision. Other treatment methods are generally ineffective, and diet does not play a role. The chance of recurrence is usually low. There ...

Understanding Knee Osteochondroma: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

One day while sitting and watching TV, I noticed a lump near my knee when I had my legs stretched out on the sofa. I found it quite strange, so I went to the public health center and was told it is a knee chondroma. I would like to inquire about the causes of this knee chondroma ...

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
Miss Yang, the issue you are inquiring about may be an osteochondroma, which is a benign and quite common tumor of the knee joint. If it is solitary, it is generally benign. The growth of the tumor is usually slow, and if it reaches a certain size, it may compress surrounding tis...

Managing Multiple Chondromas: Surgery, Recovery, and Daily Life Impact

Hello Doctor: Several years ago, I was diagnosed with multiple osteochondromas, but there is no family history of this condition. I am currently preparing to study abroad, and this issue affects my daily life, especially since I won't be at home and need to wear long pants t...

Dr. Xie Hongjia reply Orthopedics
Please visit the outpatient clinic for an examination, and discuss with the physician to confirm. Thank you.

Understanding O-Shaped Legs: Causes, Treatment Options, and Surgical Insights

Hello Doctor: Currently, my tibia and weight-bearing axis are approximately at 7.2 degrees for the right leg and 8 degrees for the left leg, with a knee distance of about 10 centimeters (congenital). However, the X-ray images show that the medial joint space is larger, about 0.6 ...

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
1. When a person is standing, the forces are transmitted to the inner side of the knee joint, making the varus deformity more pronounced and narrowing the joint space on the inner side. 2. Currently, if there are no symptoms of pain, treatment is not necessary. 3. If surgery ...