Expert Pediatric Orthopaedic Care at Cedarcrest Hospitals, Lagos and Abuja.
As a parent, it is natural to be concerned when your child’s legs appear bowed. This can be a normal development stage for many babies and toddlers. However, when the bowing continues beyond the age of two or becomes more pronounced, it may point to an underlying condition that requires medical attention.
At Cedarcrest Hospitals, with branches in Abuja and Lagos, our multispecialty orthopaedic team, including experts in pediatric orthopaedics and deformity correction, is well-equipped to assess and treat bow legs using the latest, evidence-based approaches.
What Are Bow Legs?
Bow legs, medically referred to as genu varum, describe a condition where the knees stay wide apart when a child stands with their feet together. In babies and toddlers, some degree of bowing is common due to their positioning in the womb. This typically corrects itself as the child grows.
However, persistent or worsening bowing after the age of two should not be ignored. In West Africa, especially in Nigeria, some of the more common causes of bow legs include:
- Blount’s Disease – a growth disorder of the shinbone seen more frequently in children of African descent.
- Nutritional Rickets – caused by Vitamin D deficiency, this is still seen in children who lack access to a balanced diet or adequate sunlight exposure.
- Improperly healed fractures – from untreated or poorly managed injuries.
- Genetic or bone growth disorders
When to See an Orthopaedic Surgeon
You should consider seeing a pediatric orthopaedic specialist at Cedarcrest Hospitals if your child:
- Is older than 2, and the legs still appear significantly bowed
- Has one leg more bowed than the other
- Walks with a limp or complains of leg/knee pain
- Appears to have difficulty running or playing
- Experiences emotional discomfort due to the appearance of their legs
Treatment Options for Bow Legs
Treatment depends on the cause, severity, and age of the child. After a detailed examination and possibly X-rays, your child’s orthopaedic surgeon may recommend:
- Observation – for mild cases, expected to correct naturally
- Bracing – to help guide bone growth in children with correctable deformities
- Surgery (e.g., guided growth or osteotomy) – for more severe or persistent cases
The goal is always to restore alignment, reduce discomfort, and ensure proper development for walking, running, and other physical activities.
Why Choose Cedarcrest Hospitals?
Cedarcrest Hospitals is a trusted name in advanced orthopaedic care in Nigeria. With state-of-the-art facilities in both Abuja and Lagos, we are known for delivering comprehensive, patient-centred care. Our pediatric orthopaedic specialists are experienced in managing complex bone conditions in children, using techniques tailored to growing bodies.
From diagnosis to recovery, our team supports both the child and the family every step of the way.
Don’t Delay—Book an Appointment Today
If you are concerned about your child’s leg development, early evaluation can make a difference. Book a consultation [Hyperlink to Appointment Form] with a pediatric orthopaedic surgeon at Cedarcrest Hospitals by visiting www.cedarcresthospitals.com or calling our Lagos or Abuja office directly.