Valgus deformation of knee joints: photo, causes, treatment

Diseases of bones and joints are widespread in the world. They can develop at any age, they are more likely to be affected by older people. However, there is a group of diseases that are congenital or acquired in early childhood. An example is the valgus deformity of the knee joints. The pronounced curvature of the legs is visible to the naked eye, it impedes movement and leads to disability. Deformation of the knees in childhood is treatable. Therefore, the disease should be diagnosed at an early stage. An orthopedic surgeon is involved in the treatment of this disease.

What is valgus and varus deformity of knee joints

The curvature of the knees is one of the most common pathological phenomena among orthopedic diseases. It can be of 2 kinds: X- and O-shaped. In most cases, deformation occurs during the growth of bone tissue, that is, in childhood. Sometimes the knees are bent in the elderly. This is due to increased stress on the osteoarticular system and the development of osteoporosis. Timely treatment of curvature gives a positive result. However, if you do not take action, the disease can lead to disability. Curvature of the legs in the form of the letter "X" is called a valgus deformation. It can be either two-or one-sided. The diagnosis is made on the basis of examination and measurement of the distance between the legs. With valgus curvature, it is at least 5 cm. The patient should minimize his legs and stand exactly during the distance measurement.

Varus deformation is the O-shaped bending of the knees. The reason for its development in the weakness of the bone system. Like valgus curvature, varus deformity can occur at any age. Both pathologies require treatment with an orthopedist.

The causes of valgus deformity in children

The valgus deformity of the knee joints is not an independent disease, but a consequence of some pathological condition. Curvature always occurs against the background of bone pathology. The reasons for the development of knee deformation include:

1. Congenital anomalies of the joint.
2. Lack of vitamin D.
3. Increased physical activity during the period of bone growth.
4. Injuries to the knee.
5. Calcium deficiency in the body.
6. Chronic diseases of the joints.
7. Excess weight.

Valgus deformity of the knee joints in children often occurs against the background of rickets. This disease is characterized by inadequate intake of cholecalciferol - vitamin D. In the shortage of this substance, bone tissue becomes not fully strengthened. As a result, any physical activity in childhood leads to a curvature of large joints, especially - the knee joint. Most often the deformation becomes noticeable by 2-3 years, when the baby's gait is already formed.

Congenital anomalies include the shortening of the femoral muscles, the curvature of the shin bones and the underdevelopment of the knee joint. When identifying these developmental anomalies, it is necessary to begin treatment in an orthopedic patient in a timely manner and to control physical loads so that the deformation does not progress.

Due to the high pressure on the knee joints, curvature can occur in children who do not have rickets and developmental anomalies. The fact is that the cartilaginous and muscle tissue grows more slowly than the bones. Therefore, the skeletal muscles and ligamentous apparatus are weaker. Constant loads lead to gradual deformation of the bones of the shin and thigh.

Curvature of the knees in adults

In some cases, valgus deformity of the knee joints in adults may occur. More often it occurs in people suffering from hypotrophy of the hip muscles. The weakness of the musculature of the legs can occur after the transferred neurological pathologies, such as a stroke.

In women, deformation of the knees often occurs during the postmenopause. In the elderly due to a lack of sex hormones, osteoporosis develops. This pathology is associated with the "washing away" of calcium. Due to its deficiency, bone tissue becomes discharged and brittle. Therefore, the usual physical exertion can lead to the curvature of the supporting joints. In most cases, deformation occurs in people who have an increased body weight.

The risk factors for the development of valgus curvature of the knees are the pathologies of the joints and bones. Among them - chronic inflammation of the knee joint (arthritis). Most often they occur against the background of injuries or infectious lesions. Another common pathology leading to deformity is gonarthrosis. It is characterized by a change in the structure of the cartilaginous tissue. To specific pathologies that cause deformity of the knees, include gout, Bechterew disease, rheumatoid arthritis and other systemic lesions of connective tissue.

Stages of valgus curvature

The valgus deformity of the knee joints is divided into several stages. This depends on the location of the mechanical axis relative to the lateral condyle. The degree of curvature can be determined from the x-ray picture. In addition, the doctor measures: how many degrees the shin is tilted outward. The following stages of deformation are distinguished:

1. Easy degree. Characterized by the fact that the mechanical axis, carried along the entire leg, is located along the center of the lateral condyle of the femur. The shin is thus inclined to the outside by 10-15 degrees. In addition, the mechanical axis passes through the middle of the outer half of the condyle of the tibia.
2. The average degree. The mechanical axis of the leg affects the outer part of the lateral condyle of the thigh. The angle of the tibial deviation is 15-20 degrees. In addition, the axis touches the outer condyle of the tibia only with the edge.
3. Heavy degree. Characterized by the fact that the knee joint remains outside the limits of the mechanical axis of the leg. The shin is turned outwards by more than 20 degrees.

The establishment of the stage of valgus knee deformation is necessary. The degree of severity of curvature depends on therapeutic tactics.

Symptoms of knee deformities in children

Parents often ask a question about when the valgus deformity of the knee joints in children begins to manifest itself. The age of the child is important to consider when making a diagnosis. After all, in children under 2 years, a slight deformation of the knees is considered a variant of the norm. This is due to the age features of the muscular system. The symptoms of valgus deformity of the knees include:

1. Curvature of the legs as "X". To clarify the diagnosis is to measure the distance between the ankles. With pathology, it exceeds 5 cm.
2. Rapid fatigue when walking. Children suffering from curvature of the knee joints are constantly asking for their hands.
3. Discomfort in the legs when walking. Children can complain of pain in the knee area.

It is important to note in time that the child has a valgus deformity of the knee joints. A photo of this curvature can be seen on medical websites or in literature on pediatric surgery and orthopedics. If the change in the shape of the feet resembles the pathology observed in the images, it is worthwhile to see a doctor.

In addition to these signs, symptoms of the underlying disease are noted. In rickets in young children, baldness of the occipital region, flattening of the abdomen and thorax is observed. A large fontanel on the head for a long time does not overgrow. Rickets often combine with anemia, manifested by blanching of the skin, weakness. Valgus deformity is more susceptible to children having an increased body weight.

Diagnosis of valgus knee bending

How is valgus deformity of knee joints diagnosed? X-ray is considered the main method of diagnosing leg curvature. After receiving the pictures, the doctor guides the mechanical axis of the leg and determines its position. If the line is inclined from the middle of the knee joint, then there is a curvature. To suspect the pathology, it is enough to look at the shape of the child's legs and measure the distance between the ankles with closed shins and feet. According to the X-ray picture, one more indicator is measured - the angle of bones deflection. If it is more than 10 degrees, then there is a curvature.

In addition to detecting deformation, one should establish its cause. To do this, carry out laboratory diagnostics. It is important to determine the level of calcium and phosphorus. To exclude articular pathologies, a biochemical blood test is performed. Assess indicators such as the presence of C-reactive protein, rheumatoid factor, the level of uric acid.

Valgus deformity of the knee joint: treatment of pathology

Timely assistance of a doctor with valgus deformity can lead to complete correction of the shape of the legs and stop further bending. With a pronounced deviation of the knees, surgical intervention is performed. The conservative methods of treatment include:

1. Massage and exercise therapy.
2. Physiotherapeutic procedures.
3. Wearing orthopedic footwear and special fixators of the knee joint.

In addition, etiotropic therapy is important . Children under 3 years of age should receive vitamin D and spend time in the sun. Adults who are deficient in calcium, this mineral is prescribed in the form of tablets.

Massage with knee bending in children

One of the main methods of treatment is massage. The valgus deformity of the knee joints in the early stages in children can completely disappear due to mechanical effects on muscles and exercise therapy. The course of massage should be 2-3 weeks. Then they take a break for 1-2 months. After that, the course of procedures is repeated again. The massage consists of stroking and rubbing the loins, sacrum, back of the lower leg and thigh. Then various passive movements in the leg are performed, aimed at changing the position of the joint. During the massage, special attention should be paid to the internal condyle. You should try to gradually bring it to a normal position.

Healing exercises with knee bending

Physical exercises play an important role in such pathology as valgus deformity of knee joints in children. Treatment has a positive effect. The complex of exercises includes: active flexion and extension movements in the joints, the rotation of the legs. It is recommended to walk on socks, crouch with his knees bent, sit in Turkish. Regular exercises and massage lead to correcting the shape of the legs for 4-5 years.

Surgical treatment of deformity

Surgical treatment is indicated for severe deformity. A similar method is performed if other methods have not yielded results. Surgical treatment consists in artificial fracture of the bone and fixation of the joint in the desired position. However, such operations can not be performed during a period of intensive growth.

Prophylaxis of curvature of knee joints

To prevent valgus deformity of the knee joints, it is worthwhile to take preventive measures. These include:

1. The use of food and vitamin complexes, rich in calcium.
2. The introduction of a preventive dose of vitamin D from 1 month to 3 years.
3. Daily walks with the child.
4. Rational physical activity.

Adults are advised to control body weight, if pain occurs in the joints, consult a doctor.