What causes adult X-shaped legs?

Adult bow legs may be caused by genetics, environmental factors, physiological factors, trauma or pathology. Treatments include physical therapy, surgical correction and lifestyle adjustments.

1. Genetic factors

X-shaped legs may be related to genetics, and family members with similar bone problems may increase the risk of the disease. Hereditary bone development abnormalities may cause valgus knees and form X-shaped legs.

2. Environmental factors

Long-term bad posture or excessive weight bearing may affect the development of the knee joint. For example, wearing high heels for a long time or doing a job that requires standing for a long time may increase the pressure on the knee joint and lead to X-shaped legs.

3. Physiological factors

Obesity or being overweight can increase the burden on the knee joint and lead to valgus knees. Bone maldevelopment or imbalanced muscle strength can also cause X-shaped legs.

4. Trauma

Failure to properly treat a knee injury or fracture can cause bone deformities and bowed legs. For example, knee ligament damage or poor healing after a fracture can occur.

5. Pathological causes

Certain diseases such as rickets, osteoarthritis, or rheumatoid arthritis can cause bones to become deformed, resulting in bowed legs. These diseases can affect the normal development of bones or cause inflammation in the joints.

Treatment:

1. Physical therapy

Strengthen the muscles around the knee and improve bone alignment through specific exercises, such as straight leg raises, side-lying leg raises, and wall squats.

2. Surgical correction

For severe cases of bow legs, surgery may be necessary. Common surgeries include osteotomy, knee replacement, and bone lengthening.

3. Lifestyle Adjustment

Losing weight, avoiding standing for long periods of time or wearing high heels, and choosing appropriate insoles or orthotics can help reduce pressure on the knee joints.

The causes of adult X-shaped legs are complex and may be related to genetic, environmental, physiological, traumatic or pathological factors. Treatments include physical therapy, surgical correction and lifestyle adjustments. Through targeted exercise, surgical intervention and changes in lifestyle habits, the symptoms of X-shaped legs can be effectively improved. If the symptoms are severe or continue to worsen, it is recommended to seek medical attention in time for professional diagnosis and treatment.