Flat Feet, Knock Knees, and Bow Legs in Kids: What’s Normal and When to Worry

As children grow, their bodies change in ways that can sometimes surprise parents. From learning to walk with tiny steps to running around with endless energy, every stage feels new. Every parent keeps an eye on their child’s growth. Sometimes it’s their eating habits, sometimes it’s how quickly they talk or walk. And often, it’s the way their legs or feet look when they run around the house. 

Many parents spot something different and immediately ask themselves, Is this normal? It could be flat feet, a slight curve in the legs, or knees that turn inward. These little changes can make parents anxious, even though most of the time, they’re simply a natural part of growing up.

What Parents Should Know

Dr V Palapandi, Clinical Lead and Senior Consultant, Pediatric Care, Apollo Cradle & Children’s Hospital, Chennai - Karapakkam, explains, “As a child develops, noticing changes in their legs or feet is a normal part of growth. Some common examples of these changes include flat feet, knock knees, and bow legs. These may seem worrying and put parents into panic sometimes, but all these are signs of normal growth and resolve on their own with time.”

Understanding These Conditions

As per the inputs by the doctors, below is the difference between flat feet, knock knees, and bow legs. 

Flat Feet

• Flat feet mean there’s little to no arch in the sole of the foot.
• It’s normal in babies and young kids because their joints and tissues are still flexible.
• Most children outgrow this with age.
• If the foot looks stiff, causes pain, or the child struggles to move, it should be checked by a doctor.
• Soft, cushioned shoes are usually better than rigid footwear.

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Bow Legs (Genu Varum)

• Seen when knees curve outward, leaving a gap between them while standing.
• Most babies are born with slightly curved legs, which straighten by the age of two.
• If bow legs continue past three years of age or worsen, they may need medical attention.

Knock Knees (Genu Valgum)

• Knees move inward, while ankles remain apart.
• They typically appear between the ages of three and five.
• In most cases, this corrects itself by the time the child is seven or eight.

What Can Parents Do?

For most children, these conditions improve with time. But here’s when you should take action:

• If bow legs continue after age 3.
• Knock knees get worse after age 8.
• If only one leg is affected.
• If the child has pain, limping, or trouble walking.

Doctors may recommend:

• X-rays or blood tests to check bone health.
• Vitamin supplements if used by deficiencies.
• Braces, casts, or surgery are used in very rare and severe cases.
• A helpful tip for parents: take photos of your child’s legs every six months. This makes it easier to track their development over time.

ALSO READ: What Is The Main Cause of Corns on Feet? Expert Shares the Prevention Tips

Conclusion

Most kids outgrow flat feet, bow legs, and knock knees as part of normal bone growth. The key is to observe, stay calm, and know when to seek help. With regular monitoring and timely medical advice when needed, parents can support their child’s healthy development without unnecessary worry.