Symptoms & Signs
- Knees do not touch when standing with feet together (ankles touching)
- Bowing of legs is same on both side of the body (symmetrical)
- Bowed legs continue beyond age 3
Diagnosis & Tests
A doctor can usually diagnose bowlegs by simply looking at the child. Blood tests may be needed to rule out rickets.
X-rays may be necessary if the child is 3 years old or older, if the bowing is getting worse, if it is asymmetric, or if other findings suggest disease.
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Bowlegs : Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
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Bowlegs : Symptoms & Signs, Diagnosis & Tests
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Bowlegs : Treatment
Review Date : 12/1/2008
Reviewed By : Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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