Curvature of the bones of the lower leg in adulthood. True and false curvature: how to fix crooked legs at home - straightening exercises and other methods

Crooked legs are not only a cosmetic defect, but often a serious disease, manifested by the curvature of the lower leg. Depending on the shape of the legs, there are varus deformity of the legs (limbs in the form of the letter "O") and valgus deformity of the legs (limbs in the form of the letter "X"). It is not difficult to understand whether a person has a problem with his legs: any deviation from a straight line drawn through projections hip joint, knee joint and the first interdigital space indicates pathology. You can also ask the patient to put his feet close to each other and try to compress his knees: he simply cannot do this, because. the knee joints will turn outward, clearly demonstrating a large gap between the legs. If the knees are squeezed by a person suffering from valgus, then the shins will diverge to the sides, then with a discrepancy of more than five centimeters, they speak of the presence of a valgus anomaly in the development of the limbs.

Reference. A slight deviation of the ankles outward (up to 7 ° in men and up to 10 ° in women) is not considered a pathology. Valgus curvature is characterized high angle curvature, in which there is a significant divergence of the legs with closed knees. Interestingly, in some cases, the reverse tuck of the foot, characteristic of varus deformity, leads to the gradual development of hallux valgus in the patient.

Causes of hallux valgus in children and adults

Sometimes a child is born with a hereditary valgus curvature of the lower leg, but the pathology manifests itself most often after the child gets on his feet. In addition, the shins in children are usually deformed due to the rapid growth of bones against the background of a slow formation of the musculoskeletal system as a whole. With valgus curvature of the lower leg, the knee joint suffers first of all, which leads to "over-extension" of the leg in the knee area. If a child has a valgus deviation of the legs, then over time he will most likely develop flat feet and scoliosis.

Causes of hallux valgus in children:

hereditary or genetic disease of the limbs;
congenital anomaly of the legs;
bone and cartilage disease;
metabolic disorders (improper absorption of vitamins and minerals);
inflammatory processes;
rickets in severe form;
dietary deficiency of calcium and vitamin D, which contributes to its absorption (possibly due to insufficient sun exposure);
excess weight.

Causes of valgus curvature of the lower leg in adults in many cases, “comes from childhood”, since due to the slow development of the disease, obvious symptoms fully manifest themselves with age, for example, due to. In addition, injuries to the lower extremities lead to deformation of the lower leg (usually one).

Symptoms of hallux valgus deformity

The main sign of hallux valgus is the X-shape of the legs, that is, the obvious displacement of the axes of the limbs. But the matter is not limited to external manifestations: a person experiences pain with any movement of the lower leg and foot, including while walking. The load on the limb is unevenly distributed and mainly falls on the knee and ankle joints, which are gradually destroyed because of this. If you do not begin to treat hallux valgus deformity of the lower leg, then the person will lose the ability to move normally and become disabled.

Surgical treatment of hallux valgus deformity

A defect is corrected during a corrective (varus) osteotomy - an operation during which part of the femur is removed, and then the remaining parts are fused using compression-distraction osteosynthesis, for which the Elizarov apparatus is installed on the limb (it can be used to lengthen the limb, if necessary) . If the patient has significant destruction of the knee joint, then reconstructive chondroplasty is additionally performed. Surgical treatment of valgus deformity of the lower leg is not performed for patients under 18 years of age, since their musculoskeletal system is not yet fully formed.

Curvature of the legs: video consultation with a specialist

Conservative treatment of valgus deviation of the lower leg

If the valgus of the lower leg is diagnosed in time, without waiting for changes in the joints, then the curvature of the limbs can be avoided. To a greater extent, this applies to children who, at the first signs of pathology, should be shown to an orthopedic doctor. At all stages of valgus curvature of the legs in children, physiotherapy exercises and massage, in addition, select orthopedic shoes that reduce the load on the joints. The same techniques are suitable for the prevention of curvature of the legs in children. Particular attention is required to be paid to nutrition - it is recommended to include foods rich in calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D (dairy products, fish, eggs, nuts) in the diet.

Physical exercise. Experts advise cycling, swimming, playing ball and walking up the stairs. For patients with valgus deformity of the foot, a complex has been developed exercise therapy exercises . If a pathology is found in a child, then he must be taught to sit in Turkish (the feet touch each other, and the knees are separated in different sides).

Massage. In case of valgus deformity of the lower leg, it is important not to allow the divergence of the ankles to progress, that is, to increase the tone of the ligaments and muscles and thus strengthen the limb. To do this, the patient is prescribed a massage course, which usually includes 15-20 sessions held every other day (every day is possible). It is desirable to repeat courses in two weeks or in a month. The intensity of the procedures is gradually increased, but they should not cause pain. During the massage, the specialist first strokes, rubs and kneads the muscles of the gluteal and lumbar regions, and then acts on the muscles of the legs, working with, legs, knees and ankle joints.

False curvature of the legs

Valgus and varus are true deformities of the lower leg, but there is also a false curvature in which the bones are even and the limbs seem crooked due to improper distribution or underdevelopment of soft tissues, leading to non-closure of the calf muscles.

False curvature of the lower leg is corrected by physical activity (when performing special exercises you can “pump up”, that is, increase the volume of the calf muscle), contour plastics (Macroline filler) and the installation of silicone implants (cruroplasty). Usually, the shape of the lower leg is changed by patients with underdeveloped, deformed and asymmetric lower leg muscles, among them there are many athletes and bodybuilders, that is, people for whom it is important to have a proportional body.

The main thing about hallux valgus deformity

Photos before and after treatment of hallux valgus deformity

In 2001, the leading Russian orthopedic surgeon, Doctor of Medical Sciences Alexander Artemiev developed the most popular leg shape classification today, which is generally recognized and is taken as the basis for lower limb correction techniques.

In addition to classification, Dr. Artemiev introduced such terms and concepts as ideal legs, their true and false curvature.

What do these concepts mean, how to fix crooked legs at home? How to define your form? Find out the answers right now.

Types of curvature of the legs (PHOTOS)

The beauty of the legs is a concept that everyone builds on a personal aesthetic perception. Just beautiful, that's all, you say. But it turns out that there are ideal legs, and their shape is calculated mathematically.

They should reach a length of up to 55% of your height, it is also necessary to observe certain proportions between body height and the volume of the hips and ankles. But the main thing is the rule of a straight line: if you draw an imaginary straight line from the middle of the thigh through closed knees and ankles, then three gaps will be visible along the smooth inner contour of the limb: from the crotch to the knee joints, under the knees brought together to the calves and from the calf muscles to the ankles. You have perfect legs. But nature has not endowed everyone with such. Anthropometric cosmetology is engaged in the correction of such defects.

The legs of many men and women have curvature, different in severity and divided into two types - false and true. What is it and what is their fundamental difference?

1. True

Such a curvature is the result of anatomical features or deformation of the skeletal bones of the thigh and lower leg. In this case, the lower limbs form an arc, as it were. The cause of true, that is, bone curvature, is most often hereditary genes or diseases transferred at a young age, such as rickets, or metabolic disorders.

2. False

Such curvature is a disproportionate distribution of the soft tissues of the thigh and lower leg with an even, defect-free position of the skeletal bones. We can say that false curvature is the appearance of curvature in its real absence.

Types of true curvature and methods for determining them at home

True curvature is divided into two types:

O-shaped, or varus

People who have such a bone deformity are said to have wheeled legs or like a football player. Wherever the discrepancy begins - from the level of the thigh or the area below the knee, all the same, in the end, the shape of the legs will look like the letter "O". Of the three ideal points of contact, the knees will “fall out” - they do not close with such a deformation.

X-shaped, or valgus

In this case, the knees, on the contrary, close tightly, but the ankles cannot come together. As a result, the shape of the lower limbs resembles the letter "X" and such people are said to have "X" legs.

We offer a simple verification mini-test:

Stand straight in front of the mirror, bend one limb and observe kneecap straight supporting leg. If it is shifted inward - you have an O-shaped deformation, outwardly - an X-shaped one.
Put your hands on your belt, do a simple squat in slow pace. Watch your knees: with an O-shaped curvature, they tend to the sides, with an X-shaped curvature, they want to connect, if the legs are even, they bend parallel to the feet.

An x-ray will help to finally put an end to this issue. She will not be deceived by false curvature - in the picture, the axis of the leg, no matter what impression the disproportionately distributed muscles make, will be straight.

It is impossible not to say that the distortion of the lower extremities is not only a problem of aesthetics. It can harm the legs and back. But today, almost any curvature lends itself to straightening and alignment - it can be carried out independently or using special techniques.

Peculiarity! There are cases when valgus and varus refer to false curvature. Eventually age-related changes or ligament injuries, joints that are not fastened by them can become loose, as a result, the knees stop closing. It can be difficult to figure out on your own, due to which the shape of your legs is distorted, and to distinguish between false curvature and true curvature.

False curvature - what to do to win?

We emphasize right away that false deformity of the legs is not a pathology. She does no harm physical health, A is only an aesthetic defect. This means that we are quite capable of correcting the curvature of the legs without surgery.

How to correct and correct the true curvature? We will start the correction with the correct physical activity. The result, depending on the degree of deformation, can be seen in six months or a year, and even completely get rid of the defect. But time and effort will not be wasted - your body will improve and strengthen in general, you will look and feel much better. And the proposed complexes can be performed not only in the gym, but even on your own at home.

A set of exercises for adjusting the O-legs

How to make the legs even with this type of defect? The impact should be aimed at strengthening the adductor muscles, as well as the lower leg. So, we present you exercises for crooked legs at home.

Walking on the inner arches of the foot and on the heels with socks looking outward, lifting on toes and others.
Running or walking up stairs, lifting up on your toes with each step. Can be replaced.
Squats: as deep as possible with knees brought together, the second type is the ballet "Plie". The legs are spread as wide as possible, the socks look in different directions, the emphasis during movement is on the inner surface of the thigh. .
Leg swings to the side from a standing position - free or with.
Raises of straight legs: one leg lying on its side, alternately from a sitting position with support on the hands behind
vertical and horizontal or .
Lunges. Move the weight of the body to the heel of the working limb, lifting from the lunge - without a jerk with tension in the buttocks, not the knee.
Breeding. Feet - shoulder-width apart, bring your knees closer and apart without tearing off the entire surface of your feet from the floor.
Cross "twine". Not only straightens, but also lengthens the limbs.

Classes must be held three times a week, every other day. Walking takes 5-10 minutes, with the connection of hands can be considered a warm-up. Each exercise is 3 sets of 12-15 repetitions.

To correct the O-shaped curvature of the legs, it is useful to practice speed skating, ballet and swimming. Also look at the video how to straighten your legs with exercises:

Below you can see photos of o-shaped types in women before and after training:

A set of exercises for adjusting the X-legs

Abductor muscles to be worked out outer surface hips.

Walking on the outer arches of the foot.
The so-called and others.
Weighting is gradually increased from session to session.
with a toe pulled over - from a position with an emphasis on the knees and elbows, lying on your side or standing.
The step to the side should be wide, arms extended in front of you, heels do not come off the floor.
Squats - regular or with the ball sandwiched between the knees.
Static exercise
Abduction of the knee. Standing on one leg, pull the second knee higher and turn it as far back as possible for you (such an element can be seen in ballet). Do it in turn for each limb.
Turkish squat. In this position, press on your knees, bringing them as close to the floor as possible. Do the same, slightly changing the position and connecting the soles together.
Lying on your stomach, connect the soles, and spread your knees apart. Hold for at least 3 minutes, gradually bring the time up to 10-15 minutes.

Such exercises are also performed 3 times during the week, for each exercise - 3 sets of 12-15 reps.

Sports that benefit X-shaped legs are yoga, breaststroke, equestrianism, and cycling.

In the above complexes, the load is directed to the target muscles and, in combination with stretching, can increase the volume of the calves, correct the hips and shape of the legs.

We present you a photo of x-shaped legs in women before and after exercises:

Important! Most effective exercise to add volume to the calves - lifts on the toe. For building muscle mass you need to do not 50 or more repetitions, but 12-15 in three approaches, preferably with extra weight in 10-20 kg until a slight burning sensation in the muscles during the last repetitions. Remember to stretch, keep your knees slightly bent during the exercise, and position your feet correctly with your toes in or out, depending on the problem.

True curvature - 5 ways to correct

Unlike the false curvature of the legs, where efforts to eliminate it must be directed to work with muscles and fat deposits, the true one is skeletal deformity. And here we need more effective methods, with the involvement of medical specialists. What is proposed for this today?

1. Surgery

There are two options for orthopedic surgery:

Surgical intervention with the installation of the Ilizarov apparatus on the bones of the lower leg.

10 days after installation, the process of bone correction begins, which consists in a compression effect on the bone by regularly tightening the nuts for 1.5-2 months.

Application is recommended not earlier than 14 years of age. After removing the device, active physical exercise excluded within 4-6 weeks. This method can be called traditional, but, according to experts, its application gives the maximum result.

Operation in the clinic plastic surgery called cruroplasty.

It can be carried out according to two methods - installation on the shin area, in the calf muscle area, corrective silicone implants of the required shape and size, and lipofilling, when a volume is formed on the same leg area from fat cells pumped out from the patient's abdomen. The operation lasts an hour and a half, rehabilitation takes 1.5-2 months. The disadvantages include the fact that over time, the implants can move on their own, distorting the shape of the leg, as well as a ban on sports.

2. Massage

As an independent measure of influence, massage to correct the curvature of the legs is effective only for children under the age of three.

It can help adult patients only if the key to the problem with the limbs lies in the back area, and an experienced chiropractor undertook to eliminate the defect.

But still the massage remains an auxiliary measure it is not able to completely eliminate the deformation of the bones.

3. Pulling machine

The principle of operation is the horizontal extension of the column of the spine and legs.

At regular classes gradually relieves spasms and tension in the bones and joints, restores blood circulation, lengthens the limbs.

4. Correction straps

This device consists of three belts adjustable in length, which grab the legs in three places.

In this position, you should perform a number of exercises described in the instructions.

5. Visual effect

It will help provide a few little tricks.

Overlays.

Skin-colored silicone correctors will help to visually correct the curvature and create the appearance of an increase in the volume of the calves. They must be attached directly to the limb - with inside, in the region of the calf muscle. After that, you can wear tight tights or tight jeans.

Proper clothing.

To hide crooked legs with clothes, your wardrobe needs straight classic trousers or jeans, straight-cut breeches, skirts or maxi or midi length dresses - flared and puffy godets, boots with a free top and over the knee boots to wear with shorts or a short skirt.

Check out the photos below before and after correcting the true curvature with various methods:

If you have embarked on the path of correcting the false curvature of the legs, try to say goodbye to a few bad habits:

sleep on your stomach, because in this position the spine does not rest and a difference in the length of the limbs can form, but it is often quite insignificant. The effect of constantly sleeping on your stomach is the same as carrying a bag on one shoulder;
cross your legs while sitting and cross your legs while standing;
walking in high heels, which constantly keeps the muscles in tension. The result is a deterioration in blood circulation and lymph flow, pain and swelling in the limbs, the development of varicose veins and the formation of cellulite.

Step by step - to the feet of your dreams.

Much that is a tragedy for us is perceived by others as something insignificant or even imperceptible. Spectacular beautiful legs are the dream of any girl. But there are no such people who would not have their own special beauty at all. Learn how to correctly place accents in your appearance, be an interesting conversationalist and, of course, do not leave your dream of having beautiful legs. Even women after forty can correct defects. Go to it step by step, achieve your goal using our advice and recommendations - and you sure everything will work out!

An O-shaped change in the lower leg in medicine is called varus deformity of the lower extremities. Pathology is diagnosed when the knees are located at a distance and do not touch each other. According to statistics, the disease is classified as congenital, in rare cases an acquired form of the disease is detected. Untimely therapeutic methods can lead to complications, and the patient will need surgical care.

Varus deformity of the legs develops for a number of reasons. Over the years medical practice, therapists, orthopedists, surgeons distinguish the following factors for the formation of pathology:

In most cases, the curvature of the legs occurs due to congenital hypoplasia or tibial dysplasia. Uneven changes are observed, in which it is easy to distinguish the pathological process from the individuality of the physiological state.

Doctors draw parents' attention to the problem from the first months of a baby's life, prescribing therapy to eliminate development and complications.

O-shaped legs may be due to the development of rickets. A small amount of vitamin D in the bones makes them fragile. When the baby starts walking lower limbs deform under the weight of the crumbs. The legs have a unilateral or bilateral curvature configuration. Today, rickets is extremely rare, but cases of the disease are not excluded. Vitamin deficiency can occur during fetal development, in the first months of life, after the transition from breastfeeding to artificial nutrition.

Varus deformity of the lower leg can also form in older children. Adolescents are at risk of developing rickets at the time of the formation of organs and systems. Important factors for the pathological process are:

malnutrition;
passive lifestyle;
poor environmental conditions;
chronic diseases of different directions;
staying indoors for longer than fresh air.

With prolonged, gastrointestinal diseases, intestinal disorders, a deficiency of substances necessary for the body, vitamin D is possible, which leads to intestinal rickets. The disease contributes

Bone tissues are susceptible to deformation due to the small amount of required minerals. They do not enter the body due to frequent kidney diseases that develop renal rickets. The disease is able to deprive the body of calcium and phosphates in a short period of time.

O-shaped curvature of the legs at an angle is called Blount's disease. The disease develops due to the pathology of the tibia. Treatment is possible only under the strict supervision of the attending physician.

What symptoms indicate the disease?

The pathological process is characterized by uneven development of the knee joints. This process is able to increase the condyle of the femur from the outside, reducing inner part. In this case, the inner meniscus is compressed. The joint space expands from the outside. From the inside, it narrows considerably. The ligaments that strengthen the knee joint are stretched. A bulge is formed on the outside of the lower leg. In case of complications on visual examination, the doctor fixes the pathological process:

the thigh turns outwards;
shins turned inward;
feet are in a flat varus position.

With such indicators, the curvature of the legs in children and adults is called clubfoot. The baby is not able to fully straighten his knees. Corrective therapy is needed immediately. If you ignore the treatment, the progression of the disease proceeds quickly:

gait is disturbed;
the patient complains that he often falls;
there is increased fatigue;
psychological discomfort occurs.

The patient is observed. In some cases, scoliosis is diagnosed.

Diagnostics

For a competent diagnosis of the pathological process, it is recommended to contact an orthopedist. If the patient is young, it is necessary to visit a pediatric orthopedic traumatologist. How to correct the o-shaped curvature of the legs will be prompted by a narrow profile specialist, finding out the cause of the deformation. The main task of the doctor is to eliminate the underlying disease that provokes clubfoot.

The first consultation begins with an anamnesis and visual examination. The doctor examines the patient's medical record. It is important to answer the questions in a detailed form, so that the specialist at the time of therapy takes into account all the individualities of human organs and systems.

An obligatory diagnostic event is an X-ray of the legs. If the pathology is accompanied by deformation of other parts of the legs, an x-ray of the hips, hip joints, and feet is prescribed.

To prevent rickets, the doctor must receive the result of laboratory tests of a blood test, which determines the level of alkaline phosphatase, phosphorus, and calcium. At the slightest suspicion of the presence of a stable type of rickets, pathologies of the kidneys, gastrointestinal tract, the patient is recommended to visit a nephrologist, gastroenterologist. Additional diagnostic measures may be radiographs, MRI, CT of the legs.

How is the treatment?

The treatment of varus deformity of the lower extremities is long and difficult. It is supervised by a specialist at every stage. The earlier a competent diagnosis is made, the lower the risk of developing unwanted complications. It is forbidden to correct the deformation on the recommendations of people without proper education.

Orthopedists are fighting pathological processes with complex actions. The method of therapeutic measures is selected for each patient individually.

conservative

Exercises of a therapeutic nature for O-shaped legs were developed by orthopedists. With their help, the shape of the foot is corrected, the muscles of the lower extremities are strengthened. Jointly carried out physiotherapy, which includes massotherapy lower back, buttocks, upper and lower parts lower limbs.

It is important at the time of correcting the deformity of the shape of the legs to choose the right shoes. It must meet all the requirements:

hard back;
correct fixation of the ankle joint;
size matching, taking into account the rise and fullness of the foot.

Doctors advise for the development of small muscles of the foot more time to walk barefoot. When the pathology is in advanced form, corrective styling should be used during night sleep.

The main direction in treatment should be aimed at eliminating the underlying cause of the pathology. The fight against varus deformity of the legs is ineffective if only accompanying symptoms stop for a while. With illiterate treatment, the progression of curvature, the formation of false joints is possible.

Surgical intervention

Long-term conservative treatment without positive results requires surgical intervention. Orthopedists have been practicing corrective osteotomy for many years. Surgical manipulation is quite serious. During the operation, the specialist cuts out a fragment from the tibia of the appropriate size and special clamps, fixes it to the lower leg with screws.

Osteosynthesis, which is performed by the Ilizarov apparatus, is next step treatment. The period of wearing a special device depends on the degree and form of varus deformity. On average, this period lasts 6-8 weeks.

Complications after surgery are not excluded. It is important to report each suspicious symptom to the doctor in a timely manner in order to avoid serious consequences. Among the complications most often doctors record:

the formation of bleeding due to damage to blood vessels;
weak functionality of the immune system allows the penetration of a bacterial infection;
patients are in severe pain.

After surgery, the patient is waiting for recovery. Rehabilitation is carried out different methods, the main ones are exercise therapy, massage. It is important to come to a scheduled examination in a timely manner and not ignore the recommendations of the medical staff.

Prevention

Behind long years orthopedic physicians have carefully studied the problem of valgus deformity. It is important to contact a specialist at the first manifestations, without practicing self-treatment, even with therapeutic exercises. Development may progress due to non-professional actions of the patient.

The initial form of pathology is eliminated without special problems with proper treatment and fulfillment of all requirements of the orthopedist. After recovery, it is necessary to carry out preventive actions to strengthen the muscles.

During the period of prevention, it is advised Special attention devote to your daily diet. Diet therapy consists in taking foods containing the required amount of vitamin D. If the patient is breastfeeding, the mother is fully responsible for his health, eating only fresh, healthy, high-quality food.

The next step in prevention is the choice of orthopedic shoes. The foot should be comfortable, for this the size should correspond to its length. In summer, it is recommended to carry out exercise therapy in the fresh air, walk more barefoot.

Conclusion

Diagnosis of varus deformity of the lower extremities can be at any age. The main direction of therapy is to eliminate the main cause of the development of pathology. Patients should not panic, but follow the doctor's prescription.

There are two main types of curvature of the legs in children. Varus deformity of the lower leg is an O-shaped curvature of the lower leg, as a result of which it strongly deviates outward. If a patient is diagnosed with valgus, the lower limbs form the letter X.

Varus leads to the appearance of a large gap between the knees, the load on the knee joint is distributed incorrectly. The result is the wear of the menisci, condyles and cartilage, the development of arthrosis, ankylosis.

Symptoms

The disease occurs in both children and adults - in the latter case, the disease can be the outcome of an injury or remain from childhood. Pathology leads to disorders in the entire musculoskeletal system, including causes of back scoliosis, foot deformity, development of osteochondrosis and flat feet. In a severe stage, even the hip joint suffers, and in many cases a person loses the ability to walk.

In infants after birth and up to 3 months, varus is physiologically normal, associated with hypertonicity of the muscles of the thigh and lower leg. Later, the legs are aligned, but with a tendency to varus deformity, they may remain crooked.

Closer to 1 year in a child with careful attention Parents may notice the first signs of varus deformity:

unsteady walking;
uneven abrasion of the sole and heel in shoes from the inside;
too narrow a footprint if the baby walks barefoot;
frequent falls.

After, already during the formation of the O-shaped deformation, it is difficult not to notice the defect. The center of the lower leg protrudes outward, the legs, even with a cursory examination, look crooked. If you start the problem, the bone is bent, a clubfoot appears.

A late sign of varus-type curvature is underdevelopment of the knee joints, when the outer condyle is large and the inner one is too small. This causes deformation of the joint space, regular overstretching of the knee ligaments. The child can often dislocate the legs, which only increases the risk of complications.

Flat feet with varus of the lower leg is secondary, it develops as compensation to balance the load on the limbs.

Among the symptoms of curvature, pain in the feet, shins, knees and even in the thigh can be noted. At an older age, a person feels constant fatigue, cannot walk for a long time, his legs swell. Sometimes the pains become sharp, twitching, inflammation in the joint and muscles of the lower leg joins.

Causes and stages of development

One of the main causes of curvature of the lower leg in childhood becomes rickets. Against the background of a lack of vitamin D in the mother, the disease sometimes occurs even in utero.

In the very early age vitamin D should be given as a dietary supplement, otherwise the child's bones will become too soft, fragile, prone to deformation when walking. In adolescents, varus can also occur if adverse living conditions, poor nutrition, and bone disease are noted. Late resistant rickets is especially difficult to treat against the background of hereditary disposition, the problem is associated with kidney disease and steatorrhea.

Varus curvature of the lower leg can develop for the following reasons (in children and adults):

Blount's disease - deforming osteochondrosis of the tibia;
Paget's disease;
injury;
rarefaction of bone tissue;
endocrine and metabolic diseases;
severe infections;
impaired absorption of calcium.

Usually, varus deformity that occurs in childhood is always bilateral. If the disease has already started in an adult, the problem is more often one-sided. In an adult, in the vast majority of cases, the cause is trauma or osteoporosis.

The degrees of varus curvature of the leg region differ in the severity of the condition. The first, light, causes deviation of the lower leg up to 15 degrees, the second (medium) - by 15 - 20 degrees, the third (heavy) - by more than 20 degrees.

Features of leg deformity in children

Do not confuse the primary clubfoot in children and the development of varus curvature of the legs. Clubfoot is most often congenital, if there is a problem, the bone is curved, so the legs arch in the shape of the letter O. Varus curvature is acquired, develops during the first years of life.

It is worth noting cases of false curvature of the legs in children. In such a situation, there is only a cosmetic defect of the soft tissues; this does not affect the structure and function of the musculoskeletal system.

Diagnosis of leg deformity

If there is any suspicion of a curvature of the limbs in a child, you should consult an orthopedist. You can not skip scheduled appointments per month, per year. Conducting simple tests will allow the specialist to draw conclusions about the correct development of the legs, knees and hips in a child.

Varus deformity is noticeable to the orthopedist from the first months of appearance according to physical diagnostics. To identify the cause of the deviation, to exclude other serious problems (for example, Paget's disease), a number of examinations are carried out:

Radiography. The picture will show all types of deformation of the limbs, the consequences - signs of arthrosis, narrowing of the joint space, etc.
Blood tests for alkaline phosphatase, calcium, phosphorus, vitamin D. Blood biochemistry will give a complete picture of mineral metabolism, help diagnose rickets.
Stool tests, ultrasound internal organs, the study of the function of the pancreas and thyroid glands. It will be required if there is a suspicion of a violation of calcium absorption in the body, for endocrine problems.
MRI and CT of the hip joints, knees. They are used if the varus deformity is presumably caused by an organic lesion of other elements of the limb.

Treatment of leg deformity

Therapy in a child or adult is the more difficult, the more time has passed since the onset of the pathology. It is important not only to mechanically correct the lower leg, but also to influence the cause of the deformity. The disease can be treated most easily until the age of 5-6 years, when the bones have not yet completely ossified. In other cases, the surgical method of treating curvature is preferable.

Gymnastics, massage are necessarily carried out, until the age of 3 these techniques are usually enough for a complete recovery. At a very early age, deformities are corrected by gypsum or taping. The leg is fixed in the required position, then fixed with a plaster boot. After a certain time, the procedure is repeated, correcting the position of the leg, taking into account the positive dynamics. Between gypsums make a certain interval in which they practice therapeutic gymnastics.

Medicines

The treatment course should include drugs and supplements that improve metabolic processes. Strengthening bone tissue will be based on calcium and vitamin D, vitamin and mineral complexes with magnesium, iron, phosphorus.

To correct the function of damaged knee cartilage, chondroprotectors are required (especially indicated for adults and children from 7 years of age). With severe pain, age-appropriate ointments with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory components are used in a short course. Adolescents and adults are additionally recommended to apply bischofite cream to the knees and ankles to improve cartilage function.

Massage

Therapy of varus curvature of the lower leg area requires the obligatory performance of massage in certain courses. It is desirable that the massage be done by an experienced specialist; in the absence of such an opportunity, the procedures are performed by the child's parents. An adult, if necessary, can perform self-massage of the lower extremities.

Usually the procedure is divided into several parts (3 sets of 10 minutes every half hour), in adults, one approach is allowed for 30 to 40 minutes. First, they knead the feet, then the ankles, shins, knees, and at the end of the session, the hips. For warming up pass through the muscles in a circular motion, in the region of the Achilles ligament do acupressure. After they produce stroking, rubbing the muscles, rotating movements.

Corrective footwear

The tibia varus should be kept in a normal position so that the deformity will correct much faster. Doctors recommend orthopedic shoes for use, and they prepare them only on an individual order.

First, all measurements are taken, the angle of deviation of the lower leg and foot is determined, then shoes are sewn or a special insole is made. The constant wearing of shoes in young children will significantly improve the situation in 2-3 months.

Arch support helps to get rid of the accompanying flat feet, and the high back prevents the joints from deforming even more. Solid outsole and heel form a natural position of the foot and lower leg.

Physiotherapy

For the treatment of deformities of the lower leg, it is mandatory to appoint exercise therapy complex. System gymnastic exercises should be properly selected, which will help strengthen muscles, reduce stress on the joints, improve blood circulation in the tissues of the lower extremities.

Here are popular exercises for correcting calf deformity in children and adults:

take a small ball, throw it on the floor, then try to grab it with your toes (the lower leg must be kept strictly straight);
in the same way, try to throw the ball with your foot;
roll the ball with your foot in different directions;
sit on a chair, bend and unbend the feet, stretching the legs;
turn your feet;
do squats with support on the wall;
walk like a goose step, on the heels, on the toes.

The duration of the exercises from the deformation of the legs - up to 10 - 15 repetitions for each, daily, at least 2 - 3 months. It must be remembered that with varus curvature of the legs, one cannot sit in the "Turkish position" - this is very harmful to the position of the legs.

Surgical correction

The operation is prescribed only after 5-7 years, before this age, it is most often possible to correct the situation with less traumatic methods. In adolescents and adults, surgery is almost always performed, conservative methods are recommended during the rehabilitation period.

A corrective osteotomy is performed. In its course, the doctor removes a fragment of the tibia, fixes the bone with screws to the lower leg. Then, treatment is carried out on the Ilizarov apparatus (osteosynthesis) under local or general anesthesia. Within 2 months the patient walks with this device, then it is removed, the leg is carefully developed.

Postoperative complications

Surgical intervention does not always go smoothly, sometimes complications arise: bleeding in case of damage to blood vessels, infection of the wound. Sometimes, after the installation of the Ilizarov apparatus, its elements break down, you have to do the intervention again to correct the situation.

The operation is repeated and in case of a large hemorrhage in the tissue or joint, the hematoma is opened and emptied. Pain after the intervention is very common, in this case, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are indicated.

Prevention of leg deformities

In order not to know problems with the position of the legs and the curvature of other parts of the legs, it is important to early childhood take care of your child's health. The diet should have enough food with calcium, the entire preschool period is given vitamin D. Shoes for playing, running should be comfortable, made of quality materials, with an arch support and a heel.

If the slightest deviations appear, you should immediately contact an orthopedist - the doctor will tell you how to cure the child quickly and without the use of radical methods.

It is characterized by a violation of the correct contour of the legs as a result of an “O” or “X”-shaped deformation of the bones or an aesthetically unfavorable distribution of the soft tissues of the lower leg. Curvature of the legs is not only a cosmetic defect; the presence of this pathology can lead to an uneven distribution of the load on the hip and knee joints, which is fraught with the development of osteoarthritis or gonarthrosis. Curvature of the legs often leads to the development of flat feet.

General information

More than 20% of women express dissatisfaction with the shape of their legs, the problem of curvature of the legs is no less a concern for men. It is believed that in the presence of the correct shape of the legs, the line lowered from the head of the hip joint will pass through the middle of the patella, and then between the 1st and 2nd fingers. The deviation of the legs relative to this line leads to a violation of the normal biomechanics of the limbs. The ideal shape of the shins is characterized by the presence of 3 internal spindle-shaped contours, limited by the perineum, knee joints and soft tissues the upper third of the lower leg, as well as the ankles.

Classification of curvature of the legs

Features of the curvature of the legs are indications for one or another type of correction. The curvature of the legs can be true and false.

The true curvature of the legs is a structural feature of the lower extremities associated with the deformity of the tibia. There are two variants of the true curvature of the legs: valgus ("X"-shaped) and varus ("O"-shaped).

Closed legs with valgus curvature resemble the letter "X". A slight deviation of the lower legs outward is the norm and is 5-7 ° in men and up to 10 ° in women. In patients with valgus curvature of the legs, the outer angle of curvature is greater, with closed knee joints a significant divergence of the ankles is determined.

With varus curvature, the lower legs form the contour of the letter "O". Outwardly, it is manifested by a defect in the internal contour from closed ankles to the perineum. A variant of the varus curvature of the legs is a recurved tibia with an angle open anteriorly and the apex of the curvature directed backwards, and a kyphotic tibia with an angle open posteriorly and the apex forward.

The true curvature of the legs significantly affects the function of walking and the condition of the feet. The varus curvature of the legs leads to a reverse tuck of the foot (valgus) and the gradual development of valgus deformity of the foot and secondary flat feet. Valgus curvature of the legs further contributes to the development of flat feet.

False curvature of the legs is caused by the peculiarity of the distribution of soft tissues, which give the impression of curvature of the legs in the absence of bone deformity. False curvature is manifested by non-closure of soft tissues in the lower leg area. Such a defect is only aesthetic and is eliminated by training the muscles of the lower leg, in severe cases - by implanting soft prostheses.

Causes of curvature of the legs

The curvature of the legs can be a congenital deformity or be formed in childhood as a result of severe forms of rickets, inflammatory bone diseases, and metabolic disorders. The development of congenital curvature of the legs contributes to the hereditary background, prematurity and hypoxia of the fetus, a disease of the pregnant woman. Diseases that affect mineral and other types of metabolism can aggravate the existing congenital deformities of the bone, cartilage and muscle tissues of the musculoskeletal system, increasing the degree of curvature of the legs. Therefore, at an early age, the child needs the control of a pediatric orthopedist over the development of the musculoskeletal system.

In adolescence, the curvature of the legs can be caused by a deficiency of calcium and vitamin D in food, insufficient exposure to fresh air and sun, inadequate loads on the feet, leading to a curvature of the shape of the bones of the leg.

In adult patients, the most common cause of the curvature of the legs are injuries, pathological processes in the joints of the tibia or femur.

Calf curvature correction

Correction of the curvature of the legs or the contours of the calf muscles exclusively exercise often almost impossible.

Leg contouring is performed for patients with underdevelopment, deformities or asymmetry of the leg muscles. Often, shin contouring is performed by bodybuilders to give a pronounced relief to the contours of the shin.

In order to correct the false curvature of the legs, the implantation of prostheses of the calf muscles is successfully carried out. Modern silicone tibia implants have a high degree of elasticity and resistance to damage, however, after tibioplasty, there are limitations in sports activities. Correction of the lower legs with silicone implants gives an excellent aesthetic result - thin lower legs acquire volume, and curved ones - the correct contour.

If it is impossible to correct the curvature of the legs with the help of contouring or implantation, the issue of performing an orthopedic operation is decided.

Surgical treatment of shin curvature includes corrective osteotomy - bone dissection and compression-distraction osteosynthesis according to Ilizarov, in addition, allowing to increase growth and eliminate limb disproportion. In the presence of valgus curvature of the lower leg, a varus osteotomy is performed; in case of varus curvature, a valgus osteotomy is performed.

During an osteotomy, a wedge-shaped resection of a section of bone is performed, then the bone is compared and fixed with clamps or screws. With a varus or O-shaped curvature of the lower leg, an osteotomy is performed, and a wedge is cut out of the tibia; in case of valgus or X-shaped deformity of the lower leg - respectively from the femur. Osteotomy is often supplemented by reconstructive chondroplasty in order to increase the stability of the knee joint.

The osteotomy ends with the imposition of a stable functional osteosynthesis according to Ilizarov. The patient wears the device for 4-8 months, and sometimes longer, depending on the degree of tibial curvature and the need for limb lengthening.

Reconstructive operations on the lower leg should be performed after the completion of the growth of bone tissue and the whole body, that is, after 18 years of age, when the last growth spurt occurs. This will allow for a one-time correction of the curvature of the legs with a long-term and stable result.