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.

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


This distortion is the result anatomical features or deformities 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, for example, rickets, or metabolic disorders.

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.

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:

  1. Stand straight in front of the mirror, bend one limb and observe the kneecap of the straight supporting leg. If it is shifted inward - you have an O-shaped deformation, outwardly - an X-shaped one.
  2. Put your hands on your belt, do a simple squat at a 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. As a result of age-related changes or ligament injuries, joints that are not fastened by them can become loose, as a result, the knees stop closing. On your own, it can be difficult to figure out why 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.

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 inner surface of the thigh and lower leg. So, we present you exercises for crooked legs at home.

  1. Walking on the inner arches of the foot and on the heels with outward looking socks, lifting on the toes and other exercises for the calf muscles.
  2. Running or walking up stairs, lifting up on your toes with each step. Can be replaced by "Stepping on the bench."
  3. 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. Read more about all types of squats here.
  4. Leg swings to the side from a standing position - free or with sports rubber.
  5. Raises of straight legs: one leg lying on its side, alternately from a sitting position with support on the hands behind
  6. "Scissors" vertical and horizontal or "Bicycle".
  7. 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.
  8. Breeding. Feet - shoulder-width apart, bring your knees closer and apart without tearing off the entire surface of your feet from the floor.
  9. 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 engage in 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:

The abductor muscles of the outer surface of the thigh are subject to study.

  1. Walking on the outer arches of the foot.
  2. The so-called "Walking on your knees" and other exercises to strengthen the muscles around the knees.
  3. Weighting is gradually increased from session to session.
  4. Swing the leg to the side with the toe pulled over - from a position with emphasis on the knees and elbows, lying on your side or standing.
  5. Side lunges. The step to the side should be wide, arms extended in front of you, heels do not come off the floor.
  6. Squats - regular or with the ball sandwiched between the knees.
  7. Static exercise "Stool against the wall."
  8. 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.
  9. 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.
  10. 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 will benefit those with X-shaped legs are yoga, breaststroke swimming, 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. To build muscle mass, you need to do not 50 or more repetitions, but 12-15 in three approaches, preferably with an additional weight of 10-20 kg until a slight burning sensation in the muscles during 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?

There are two options for orthopedic surgery:

1. 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 activity is excluded for 4-6 weeks. This method can be called traditional, but, according to experts, its application gives the maximum result.

2. An operation in a plastic surgery clinic 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.

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.

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

With regular exercise, it gradually relieves spasms and tension in the bones and joints, restores blood circulation, lengthens the limbs.

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.

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 - from the 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 godet, boots with a free shaft 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 stomach after all, in such a 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;
  • walk in high heels which keeps the muscles tense. 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 to correctly place accents in appearance, to be interesting interlocutor 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!

The natural curvature of the legs is not a disaster at all:

  • firstly, there are not so many ideal legs by nature;
  • secondly, it is quite possible that you are simply exaggerating your small defect.

Today, the problem of curvature of the legs can be radically solved either by orthopedic straightening or plastic surgery. Such operations are very painful, debts and expensive, and the most offensive - they are often disappointing. But is it worth resorting to drastic measures when there are other methods that are much simpler, more accessible and harmless. Correction of the curvature of the legs can be done by physical and manual influence.

It is possible to correct the curvature of the legs with the help of physical exercises, simulators and manual methods of influence.

Before proceeding with the correction of the legs, be sure to visit an orthopedist. It will help determine:

  • Which curvature do you have (true or false):
    • true curvature is determined by the deviation of the bones from the vertical axis;
    • false - asymmetry or insufficient development of the muscles of the calves or thighs.
  • Curvature Shape Type:
    • O-shaped or X-shaped
  • Cause of curvature:
    • natural defect,
    • muscle features,
    • biomechanics of the knee.

You can also check the falsity or truth of the curvature and the shape of the curvature yourself by straightening your legs until the knees and feet are in full contact.

Before choosing a way to straighten your legs, you need to determine your type of curvature.

The verification test is described in detail in the article Leg Straightening Surgery.

In the curvature of the legs, nature often turns out to be nothing to do with:

In most cases, the curvature of the legs is a defect acquired during incomplete bone growth.

  • Our habits may be to blame:
    • the habit of standing in a pose, leaning on one leg and weakening the other;
    • a pose in which the feet are turned toes inward;
    • the habit of eating a lot - as a result, a lot of weight leads to a curvature of the legs.
  • Also, the cause of asymmetry or curvature of the legs can be life itself with its daily stress:
    • in jumpers, the push leg is usually more developed;
    • in professional jockeys, O-shaped curvature of the legs is possible, etc.
  • The cause of X-shaped deformity can be valgus deformity of the foot (clubfoot) - turning the foot outward:
    • Such a defect is often formed in early childhood, when the development of the musculo-ligamentous system of a baby who has begun to walk is insufficient, or the child has a lot of weight.

False curvature is corrected by pumping up the corresponding muscles of the thigh or lower leg with the help of physical exercises and simulators - this way you can correct the shape of the legs by closing too large "openings" between the legs or smoothing the outer contour.

However, a large degree of curvature usually leads to a violation of the biomechanics of the knee joints.

Screening test for knee joints:

  • with an O-shaped form, the patella on a straightened leg is displaced inward;
  • with an X-shaped - outwards;

    During the test, bend one leg, and on a flat leg, determine the displacement of the patella.

  • in the first case, the knees go to the sides when squatting;
  • in the second, they seek to unite.

    As you squat, be aware of which direction your knees are moving.

There is no longer a false, but a true curvature, which cannot be corrected by developing the calf muscles.

The true curvature of the legs due to the displacement of the knee joint can be corrected with the help of manual impact on the knee joint in combination with a set of exercises for the joints and muscles.

The following exercises help with this type of curvature:

Examples of exercises to correct the curvature of the legs

  • Walking on the inside of the foot.
  • Walking on heels with toes out.
  • Squats in the "ballet" position: socks are divorced as much as possible.
  • Exercises for the adductor (internal) muscles of the thigh and lower leg:
    • free leg abduction to the side in a standing position;
    • leg abduction with shock absorber - rubber cord;
    • lifting the leg to the side in a standing position sideways to the support;
    • side leg lift.
  • Alternate rises of straightened legs in a sitting position, leaning with your hands behind.
  • Cross movements with straight legs ("scissors") in the prone position.
  • Exercises with straight legs connected together (connect legs with belts or special correctors):
    • Lie on the floor with your feet on the wall. Sitting down, stretch your hands to the wall.
    • Lie on the floor, stretching out, then pull the feet towards you.
    • Lying on your back, slowly, without raising your torso and head, raise your legs to a height of 30 cm from the floor, then also gently lower them.
  • Cross stretching "twine" - very effective method straightening and lengthening the legs.

Sports preferred for O-shaped curvatures:

  • skating;
  • skating skiing;
  • ballet dances;
  • swimming.

The long type of lower leg responds best to exercises, in which the soleus and gastrocnemius muscles are located low and are attached to the short Achilles tendon.

A short shin with a high position of muscles and a long tendon is less amenable to correction.

The following exercises are preferred for X-shaped curvature:

  • Walking on the outer sides of the foot.
  • Squats with the ball between the knees.
  • Turkish seating:
    • knees apart, heels connected;
    • a similar asana in yoga is the lotus position.
  • Exercises for the internal soleus muscle in a sitting position on a chair:
    • As a simple simulator, a shovel handle is used, which is placed on your knees.
    • Pressing on the handle of the shovel with both hands, at the same time slowly raise both shins on their toes and lower them.
    • After some time, we weight the stalk by hanging loads along the edges, for example, plastic bottles or buckets of water.
  • Exercise to train the medial head of the calf muscle:
    • It is performed on steps with safety net.
    • Stand on the bottom step of the stairs not on the whole foot (heels not on the step), turning your socks outward.
    • Holding the hands of an assistant standing above, slowly rise on your toes and lower (the heel should not go below the level of the step, in order to avoid stretching the Achilles tendon).

These exercises are performed three times a week:

  • three sets of 15 repetitions are done during the lesson.

Sports with X-shaped legs.

With X-shaped deformation fit:

  • equestrian and cycling,
  • breaststroke swimming,
  • yoga classes.

Video: Leg Correction Exercises.

The purpose of the classes is to train the quadriceps femoris muscle, but not to increase mass, but to work out its relief and shape.

To perform this exercise, you will need a simple leg extension machine.

The purpose of the exercises on the simulator is to correct the relief and shape of the quadriceps femoris muscle.

How the exercise is performed:

  • Sit on the simulator and first check how it is set:
    • when placing the lower leg under the stop, it should be no higher than one third of the length of the lower leg
    • if the stop is higher or lower, set it according to your anthropometric data
  • Starting the exercise, place the feet at a distance of 30 cm from each other.
  • Leaning back against the backrest and holding on to the handles, we slowly straighten our legs at the knees.
  • To correct the outer contour of the legs (with X-shaped curvature), the feet are turned with their toes inward when the legs are extended.
  • To correct the inner part of the quadriceps of the foot, you need to turn it outward.
  • You can not start classes with too much weight on the simulator - weight gain should be gradual.

At home, such exercises can be performed on a chair with weights on the legs.

Video: Straightening the legs while sitting in the simulator.

This very simple technique was proposed by a chiropractor, chiropractor Vitaly Gitt.

To select the correction method, the type of curvature of the legs is determined:

  • Curvature due to too close together or vice versa too divorced knees.
  • Curvature of the lower leg (mostly external O-shaped).
  • External curvature of the femur.

According to these types of defects, Gitt suggests the following repair methods:

The knee is corrected by the expansion of the joint space and the natural growth of the meniscus under impact.

To do this, daily for a minute in the morning and evening, you need to beat these areas with a small bag of tarpaulin (size 15x20cm) filled with sand or salt, on the inside of the knee with an O-shaped curvature or on the outside - with an X-shaped. The blows in the first days should be weak, then after adaptation, the strength of the blows must be increased

The defect is eliminated in the same way - by a gradual increase in blows to problem areas.

Strikes are a kind of microtrauma, due to which blood circulation and metabolic processes are stimulated, and muscle building occurs, which cannot be done with the help of physical exercises with too high or too low a curvature position.

This happens by building up the internal muscle:

  • in a sitting position on a chair, a small 20-centimeter ball is placed between the knees;
  • the ball is compressed-unclenched at a fast pace for one to two minutes.

The buildup of both the meniscus and muscles with such methods is minimal, but even a few millimeters produce a good visual effect.

To obtain tangible results, these procedures must be performed at least six months.

As you can see, correcting the curvature of the legs is completely in your hands.

Video: Slim legs with yoga

The human body is asymmetrical, it happens that this leads to a curvature of the lower extremities. The curvature of the legs is divided into types:

  • O-shaped;
  • X-shaped;
  • Legs with a wheel;
  • false curvature.

Legs in the shape of the letter "O" are noticeable in a person standing, closing the limbs together, but the knees do not touch each other. "X" is determined by the contact of the knees, the ankles diverge to the sides. "Wheel" - when the knees and ankles do not touch each other. False curvature - the bones are even, the legs seem crooked. Curvature appears with improper development of individual muscle groups.

It is difficult to achieve the result of ideal legs, but small deviations from the norm are not a reason for tragedy and the development of complexes. For selected people, medical intervention will be the way out of the situation.

In many cases, it is possible to correct the situation on your own, without contacting medical professionals. Creating beautiful legs is achievable at home, without medical help and sports instructors.

curvature of the legs

Excellent results are achieved with regular exercise. Before starting the exercise, it is worth determining the lack of limbs. You will need to stand near the mirror, move the limbs together, take a good look. Often the legs are straight, just a little weak, without strong muscles, which creates difficulties for the owner. If you constantly perform exercises to straighten the legs at home, it remains possible to get a good result, correct the curvature of the limbs.

Known complexes of simple exercises, doable at home, leading to the desired effect. To be successful, remember:

  • It is forbidden to stand on one leg or cross limbs;
  • High heels are rarely required;
  • You need to sleep on your back;
  • It is forbidden to redistribute the weight on one leg;
  • No need to carry the bag on one shoulder.

Professional simulators for limb straightening at home have been developed, the exercises are simple and show good results. You can get a noticeable effect by doing ten standard squats three times a day.

Initially, you will need to remove excess fat located on the lower leg, thighs. It is worth walking more, cycling, rollerblading, performing more simple active movements.

Lie sideways, on top of a hard surface, tighten your muscles. Raise up the leg on which you are lying, as far as possible, hold it in the raised position for twelve seconds. Then turn the other side, repeat the movement with the second leg.

It is important to perform exercises constantly, daily, four times for a limb. The selected exercise helps the thigh muscles become stronger.

Stand up straight, head slightly raised. Straighten your back, pull in your stomach. The muscles of the body should be in a relaxed state. One leg is bent back and held by the hand, the muscles of the other are stretched. Charging for one leg continues for twenty seconds. Then the limbs are changed, the exercise is repeated again. Do it regularly, preferably twice a day.

Sit on the floor, straighten your back, take the toes of one foot, slowly, without sharp jerks, pull towards you. Stay in this position for seven seconds. Repeat the exercise for the second leg.

Take a standing position, the leg is placed in front of the other, leaving a walking distance. The back is straight, no need to roll forward or backward. We start doing lunges. Use a special platform for classes, in this way the load increases, the result improves.

The stance is similar to exercise 4. Slowly bend the front leg at the knee, tear off the heel of the second leg from the floor in parallel. After transferring the weight to the toe of the leg located behind. It is required to take a position when both limbs are bent at the knee at a right angle. Hold for a few moments, return to the starting position. It is recommended to spread your arms in different directions, such a movement helps to maintain balance. The exercise is done fifteen times, in two sets.

Leg straightening

It is shown to treat the curvature of the limbs with the help of the Sport-1 simulator. The device provides the ability to do exercises for certain muscle groups. This includes squats, jumps, lunges, and calf raises. Constantly practicing, performing the exercises the required number of times, the legs become embossed, gradually leveling off. It is possible to treat curvature with the help of yoga.

For this type of curvature of the legs, many exercises are known. Corrections are possible with the execution of movements:

  • Walking on the inside of the foot.
  • Walking with heels, the toe points outward.
  • Spread your socks as far as possible, squat.
  • In a standing position, move your leg to the side.
  • Raise your leg while lying on your side.
  • Sit down, lean your hands behind you, raise straightened legs in turn.
  • Lie on the floor, raise the limbs up, make crossing movements, slowly, lowering to the floor.
  • Close your legs with belts and correctors (specially created), after stretching out lying on a hard surface, then pull your feet towards you. Perhaps an occupation where the body with the head does not come off the floor, the legs smoothly rise up and down.
  • Stretching "twine" helps to straighten the legs.

Having an “O-shaped” curvature, it is enough to close the legs tightly when standing straight, as tightly as possible. The tension should become as strong as possible, fix the position for five to seven seconds.

Put your feet shoulder-width apart, do squats, twenty times, connecting your knees. Then sit down, legs should be extended. With a quick movement of the foot, turn outward, and the muscles at this moment are tense. We do twenty exercises. Then, kneeling, spread your socks on different sides, try to sit on your heels, on a hard surface. Twenty sets are repeated.

With such a curvature, experts advise swimming, figure skating, ballet dancing, and skating skiing.

The result of the exercises is noticeable at the elongated bootleg, where the gastrocnemius, soleus muscles are located, with a low location, they are located on the short Achilles tendon. A short shin reveals a high location of the muscle and an elongated tendon, which is less amenable to correction.

For the curvature of the limbs of the "X-shaped" type, several exercises have been developed. Start jumping rope, gradually increasing the number of jumps, walk with the outside of your foot, squat with the ball between your knees. It is recommended to cross your legs, sit down, quickly rise without the help of your hands, do the exercise thirty times.

Hip stretch

New exercise: back straight, feet together. Spread the legs as far as possible, fix for five seconds. The back is kept straight, feet together, do not come off the floor.

For the soleus internus muscle, a sitting exercise is suitable. A shovel handle or a similar stick is placed on your knees. You will need to press down hard, at the same time the shins rise on their toes and fall. After a series of classes, the stick should be weighted, heavy weights should be hung around the edges. Exercises are performed at least three times a week for three sets, fifteen repetitions.

Hip deformity appears when the internal muscle is built up. You will need to sit down, fix a small ball between the knees, a twenty-centimeter one will do. Squeeze, unclench the ball at a fast pace, for two minutes.

If you practice regularly, in a month a small result will become noticeable, in six months it will turn into a tangible and visible one.

Some girls, because of the crooked toes, are very complex, more often in the summer, when it is customary to wear open shoes. When straightening the toes, several simple exercises doable at home.

It will help walking on tiptoe, it is useful to squeeze, unbend your fingers, straining your muscles. Orthopedists do not advise wearing shoes in the apartment, or wearing light, open shoes.

The above exercises are easy to perform and accessible to a person. Curvature can be corrected at any age. With desire and diligence, the work ends with a victorious result. To achieve greater efficiency from classes, you will have to gradually increase the number of loads, it is useful to consult with a sports instructor about the selected set of exercises. Perhaps the trainer will approve the chosen complex or recommend his own set of exercises, created specifically for leg correction, taking into account the characteristics of the body.

There are no cons to the above exercises, but there are many pluses. With the help of classes, the legs will become slender, pumped up, acquire an aesthetic relief. It does not matter whether physical activity, yoga treatment or the Sport 1 simulator will be useful. Improves well-being, benefiting the body.

You can't be lazy! For smooth and beautiful legs, you will have to work regularly. Exercise at least twice a week. For several sessions, the result cannot be achieved, the temporarily unwanted curvature of the legs will hide under a long skirt, over the knee boots or tights with a large pattern.

Exercises for the O-shaped curvature of the legs is an effective therapeutic technique that, with a regular and systematic approach to classes, will help to correct and correct their shape without surgical intervention. How to overcome the curvature of the lower extremities with the help of therapeutic exercises? What exercises will be most effective and how to perform them correctly?

Curvature of the legs is a widespread problem that can have many causes. Specialists distinguish 2 types of curvature of the lower extremities:

  1. X-shaped curvature - is a deformity of the legs, in which the patient cannot connect the ankles if the hips are closed.
  2. O-shaped curvature - is a deformation of the internal contour of the limbs (from the ankle to the perineum). When the patient joins the legs together, they resemble a wheel in appearance.

It is necessary to fight with the curvature of the lower extremities. The problem not only gives the patient psychological discomfort and reduces self-esteem, but also negatively affects the gait, as well as the functioning of the musculoskeletal system.

According to experts in the medical field, the curvature of the legs, the appearance of which is due to hereditary, genetic causes or past traumatic injuries, is practically impossible to correct. This problem can only be dealt with by surgery.

However, in all other cases, physiotherapy exercises can bring very tangible, impressive results. According to Irina Krasikova, gymnastics will be especially effective in case of curvature of the legs in young patients, because their bone tissues are soft and elastic and lend themselves well to external influences.

Regular and conscientious classes will help adult patients as well. After about a year of training, the leg will become much slimmer and smoother!

Curvature of the legs is a cosmetic defect, usually visible to the naked eye. However, before starting classes, it is recommended to make sure that you really need a correction.

For these purposes, you need to stand up straight, closing your limbs, and try to relax the muscle groups of the lower limbs as much as possible (it is advisable to perform a check while standing in front of a mirror). After that, take a close look at your feet. According to the established standard, the limbs should touch each other at the following points:

  • feet;
  • knees;
  • middle part of the ankle.

If the legs are deformed according to the 0-shaped type, then they are in contact in the crotch and heels. In the case of an x-shaped curvature, they are connected exclusively in the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe knees.

If you have identified obvious defects in the shape of your legs, then you need to deal with this problem. However, it is highly recommended that you consult with a qualified orthopedic specialist before starting classes, especially when it comes to a young child or teenager.

In most situations, the deformity and curvature of the lower extremities are due to specific defects. bone tissue, weakness of the knee joint or improper development of the muscle groups of the lower extremities. Therapeutic physical education in this case is aimed at achieving the following goals:

  1. Strengthening weakened muscle groups of the lower extremities.
  2. Correction of the functioning of ligaments.
  3. Rotation of the knee joint area to the anatomically correct position.

Thus, exercises help to get rid of the curvature of the legs. Moreover, according to numerous reviews by patients, with systematic daily training according to the scheme prescribed by a specialist, the results become noticeable in just a couple of months.

If you skip classes, do the exercises at half strength, gymnastics will have absolutely no effect. In addition, a preliminary consultation with an orthopedist is necessary, which will help develop the optimal set of exercises, taking into account the age category and the individual characteristics of a particular patient. Moreover, for some patients, this kind of exercise may be completely prohibited in case of diseases in which any increased load on the lower limbs is contraindicated.

Experts recommend starting any exercises aimed at correcting the shape of the legs after the muscles are sufficiently prepared and warmed up. The optimal warm-up includes the following types of exercises:

  1. Standing on the floor, raise your toes, as if tearing them off the surface. At the same time, the foot is pressed harder against the surface.
  2. Do the exercise "Bicycle" (up to 10 repetitions).
  3. Sit on a chair and, legs apart, rest your heels on the floor. Raise your feet and begin to alternately turn them from side to side.
  4. Walk on your toes (3 to 5 minutes).
  5. Stand straight and begin to bend your toes, as if removing them under the area of ​​​​the foot.

Now let's look at an effective set of exercises aimed at correcting legs with an o-shaped curvature:

  1. Walk on the inside of your foot.
  2. Do about 20 squats, while spreading the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe socks as much as possible.
  3. Stand up straight, lift your leg and take it as wide as possible to the side. Repeat the same exercise with the second one.
  4. Sit with your hands on the floor, straighten your legs. Start lifting the limbs one by one, while making sure that the leg remains perfectly flat.
  5. Lie on the floor, close your legs and begin to slowly raise and lower them. At the same time, make sure that the body remains motionless.
  6. Stand on one leg, straighten the other as much as possible and take it to the side. Do about 15 swings, then change the support and repeat the exercise.
  7. Sit on the floor and grab your leg with two palms, and then slowly lift it up and try to stay in this position for at least 5 seconds. After that, change the limb and repeat the exercise.
  8. Lie on the floor on your side and alternately lift straightened legs up.

The average duration of a workout should be at least half an hour. Start each session with a warm-up. You should train daily, and to achieve the fastest and most positive results, do this corrective gymnastics 2 times a day. Performing any exercises, try to keep your back as straight as possible, and your stomach - retracted. Now let's take a quick look at effective x-leg exercises:

  1. Do squats. Start with 15-20 repetitions, gradually increasing the number of approaches. Squats with a rubber ball pre-clamped between the ankles give a good effect.
  2. Standing, do lunges with your foot to the side, pulling the sock as much as possible.
  3. Walk on the outside of the foot (10 steps).
  4. Practice on the Swedish wall. Raising the legs on the floor of the stairs allows you to achieve very good results.
  5. Lie on your stomach, spread your knees as far as possible, and then try to connect your feet together.

In order for corrective gymnastics to be extremely effective and effective, it is important to follow the following recommendations of specialists:

  1. After each exercise, try to relax the muscle groups as much as possible.
  2. Don't skip workouts.
  3. Combine physiotherapy exercises with a course of corrective massage.
  4. At least 2 times a year, visit the office of physiotherapy exercises.
  5. Take up sports such as swimming and figure skating.
  6. Do stretching, learn to sit on the splits.
  7. Wear comfortable shoes.

O-shaped curvature is a serious problem that spoils the appearance and causes a lot of trouble. As a rule, this deficiency can be corrected thanks to regular, systematic classes in therapeutic corrective gymnastics. In order for the training to be the most effective, it is recommended to select a set of exercises together with an orthopedic doctor or an instructor in physical therapy. A combination of corrective gymnastics with massage and certain sports gives a good effect.

The problem of curvature of the legs is quite common in people. However, it worries the weak half of humanity most of all. Of course, any woman strives to look more attractive and better. However, sometimes this is hindered by the deformation of the knee joints, which the lady received from nature. After all, it is this feature of the structure of the lower extremities that has a dominant type of inheritance.

Such a problem causes not only aesthetic discomfort. After all, this is a serious pathology that contributes to the incorrect distribution of body weight on the legs. And this further threatens the emergence of a number of diseases of the musculoskeletal system. That is why the sooner such patients decide to correct the curvature of the legs, the lower the likelihood of a serious pathology in the future will be for them.

In medicine, the curvature of the legs is determined in a standing position, when the legs are shoulder-width apart, and the arms are “at the seams”. In this case, three types of such pathology are distinguished. Among them:

1. Deformation of the varus type. It is characterized by the contact of the feet. The legs of a person in this position are similar to the letter "O". There is no point of contact of the lower extremities in the knees. This type of deformation is called somewhat differently. This is an O-shaped curvature of the legs.
2. Valgus type deformity. In the same standing position, a person's shins may resemble the letter "X". This is another curvature of the legs. It is considered X-shaped. With it, you can close the legs, but it is impossible to do this with the feet.
3. False type deformation. It is a visually erroneous representation of the curvature of the legs. In such cases, the human bone apparatus is normal. However, there is an incorrect distribution of the muscular-fat membrane. This fact is the main one, visually giving the effect of curvature. With a false deformation, the feet and knees close, but it is very difficult to bring the calves to contact.
Without the presence of pathology, the shin part of the legs has some outward deviation relative to the mentally drawn vertical line. For men, this value is about five degrees, and for women - up to ten.

The most dangerous is the X-shaped deformity of the legs. It is most clearly reflected in the gait of a person. This creates the impression that the patient shakes his hips strongly. With a stronger degree of deformity, the effect of the buttocks jumping occurs when they rest on the leg.

With an O-shaped curvature, a reverse rotation of the foot occurs. This creates some instability of the patient during the transfer and provokes one-sided rubbing of the sole of the shoe. The danger of this form of deformation lies in the rapidly progressing flat feet.

In most cases, the deformity of the lower extremities is caused by hereditary factors. The following are causes that arose even in childhood. This is a lack of nutrients that the body needs for correct formation skeleton, as well as injuries.

To date, one of the reasons for the deformation of the lower extremities, some call too long use of diapers. This should be kept in mind by new mothers. In addition, the causes of acquired deformity of the lower extremities may lie in the presence of a child:

Severe forms of rickets;
- osteomyelitis and other forms of bone pathology;
- disorders of metabolic processes, especially trace elements such as potassium, magnesium and calcium;
- endocrine pathologies.

In adolescence, bone deformity can manifest itself with a deficiency in the body of vitamin D and calcium, as well as with insufficient exposure to fresh air.

The operation to correct the curvature of the legs is performed only with a certain shape of the lower extremities. The need for surgical intervention arises with a careful study of the contours of the musculoskeletal structure of the limbs, their biomechanical axes, as well as the ratio of the lines of the lower leg and thigh. In the language of the layman, doctors determine the harmony of the legs.

The main indicator for assessing the curvature of the legs is their biomechanical axis. It is a straight line mentally drawn through the points of the head of the femur, the middle of the patella and the center of the ankle. The difference between the anatomical and the resulting axis indicates the degree of curvature of the legs. Based on this indicator, doctors decide on the possibility of surgical intervention.

A special case is the false curvature of the lower extremities. It does not provoke pathological processes in the legs and gives a person inconvenience only in aesthetic terms. In such cases, the patient is advised to perform special exercises to correct the false curvature of the legs. This is a fairly simple and effective way to eliminate visual pathology. In some cases, silicone pads are used to carry out a similar correction of the curvature of the legs.

To date, the most effective way to correct the lower extremities is an operation to correct the curvature of the legs, during which the tibia is deliberately broken in several places. Next, the resulting fragments are compiled. With their successful fusion, the correct biomechanical axis is obtained.

Of course, correcting the curvature of the legs in this way can shock any person. That is why medicine uses a number of techniques in its practice. They are designed to prove to the patient the painlessness and effectiveness of such an intervention, which is aimed at correcting the curvature of the legs. The clinic to which a person applies offers him special computer programs demonstrating the prospect of correction in a particular patient. It also contains information about patients who have already undergone a similar operation.

The Ilizarov apparatus is most often used in cases where it is necessary to correct the O-shaped curvature of the legs, as well as deformities of the “X” type. This unique device guarantees a 100% effect.

It is important to remember that correcting the curvature of the legs is a personal matter for a person. Each patient is given time to consider the importance of the future cosmetic effect before undergoing such procedures. An exception can only be cases of a high degree of deformation of the lower extremities, which prevent a person from moving and threaten with serious diseases of the musculoskeletal system in the future.

Artificial fracture or suppression of the bone, which is subsequently accompanied by fixation of fragments, is called osteotomy. After such an operation, the Ilizarov apparatus is used. With its help, fragments of the bone are fused. This process is done externally.

The level of modern orthopedics allows the use of a wide range of programs that control such bone correction.

The very next day after the installation of the Ilizarov apparatus, patients are able to move independently. Direct correction of the curvature of the legs begins on the tenth day. This happens with the help of a certain tightening of the screws of the device, which is strictly controlled by a computer program.

False curvature of the legs can be corrected with this modern correction method. With vagal and valgus deformities, this method is considered inappropriate.

The essence of cruroplasty is that with this method, special artificial implants are inserted into the subcutaneous tissue of the lower extremities. They are located in the femoral region of the legs.

The cruroplasty method guarantees an aesthetically correct shape in this part of the limbs.

This method is similar in its indications to the previous one. However, with this method, the false curvature of the legs is corrected using parts of the patient's fatty tissue, which are taken from other places. This allows you to level the defective areas. Most often, the intake of fatty tissue is carried out from the buttocks of the patient.

Lipofilling is a less traumatic method that is most suitable for people in terms of tissue survival.

With the help of such operations, a cosmetic effect is provided. There are no medical indications for their use. Lipofilling and cruroplasty can be performed only at the request of the patient.

Many are interested in this question: "Is it possible to correct the curvature of the legs without surgery?". Yes. Legs can become slender without the participation of a surgeon. The simplest and fast option The solution to this problem is the visual correction of the curvature of the legs. Reviews of many ladies recommend choosing the right clothes, for example:

1. Real miracles are created by mini-skirts, which are combined with over the knee boots, as well as tights, decorated with a large pattern.
2. Straight-cut trousers and jeans will help to hide figure defects.
3. Visually increase the curvature of the legs of the skirt to the knee and breeches. That is why you shouldn't wear them.

What other non-surgical methods are there to eliminate defects of the lower extremities? Many have been helped by exercises to correct the curvature of the legs. However, it is worth remembering that special training complexes help only with false defects. The legs are adjusted by increasing the volume of muscle mass.

So, the following exercises can increase the size of the calves:

1. Lifting on toes, performed with or without a load.
2. Alternately abducting the legs back in a standing position.
3. Lifting straight legs lying on your side.
4. Foot press, produced on a special simulator.
5. Strong compression of the legs between themselves in a standing position.
6. Squats, performed both with legs located shoulder-width apart, and connected together.
7. Running up the stairs. During this exercise, the legs should be raised with each step on the toes.

When performing exercises to correct the curvature of the lower extremities, one should take into account the fact that the calves are the muscles that respond least to training. That is why an increase in the volume of the legs with the help of exercises can occur only within one or two centimeters.

This technique is used to strengthen weak leg muscles and bring them into tone. Most often, the curvature of the lower extremities is eliminated by a special set of exercises that relax hard tissue areas and strengthen soft ones.

When conducting yoga sessions, it is recommended to tighten the legs with straps or draw them out with the help of special weights. A fairly effective exercise is the compression of the lower limbs of the bricks. This has a beneficial effect on the general condition of the legs and their muscles.

It is possible to get rid of defects of the lower extremities within 2-3 months. You only need to conduct regular classes at least three to four times a week.

What to do for those people who have defects in the lower extremities, but they do not dare to have an operation and cannot find the time to perform special exercises? In this case, pads to correct the curvature of the legs can help them. But it should be borne in mind that their main task is only the visual concealment of an existing cosmetic defect.

The domestic market for medical products offers silicone pads that have the following characteristics:

Patented, that is, produced according to existing technology and in industrial conditions;
- made of natural silicone, which is not capable of causing irritation or allergies to human skin, does not emit any toxic substances and is completely safe for health;
- have sticky properties and therefore are well attached to the leg and do not slip off it;
- they are easy to clean, if necessary, both with ordinary household products and special ones that do not contain chemically active elements in their composition;
- in conditions of intensive use, they can last from five to seven years;
- have a dimension, that is, they have a different thickness depending on the dimensions of the legs and shins, as well as the degree of their curvature.

There is an opinion that such devices can only be worn by a woman under trousers. However, it is not. Silicone pads can be used with dresses and short skirts. Of course, there must be tights on the legs. Silicone has the ability to take on the shade of the skin, which makes it invisible.

In the case when the lower limbs are bent in the form of the letter "O", it is recommended to wear pads with maximum thickness. If the defect of the legs is of type "X", then the patient will need fine devices.

If you have difficulty choosing silicone pads, it is advisable to consult your doctor.

True X-shaped curvature (valgus deformity) is manifested by the presence of a distance between the feet with tightly closed knees in a free stance.

Classification of the shape of the legs (Artemyev A.A., 2001):

  1. Perfect legs;
  2. True O-shaped curvature (varus deformity);
  3. false curvature;
  4. True X-shaped curvature (valgus deformity);

Below is a video on how to fix crooked legs

This classification allows you to independently determine the shape of the legs and decide on the correction of curvature.

The "ideal" shape of the legs involves the closing of the knees, calves and feet and the presence of three gaps between them.

True X-shaped curvature is manifested by the presence of distance between the feet with tightly closed knees in a free stance. It can be conditionally considered that the deviation of the axis by 10-15° is a cosmetic problem, more than 15° - orthopedic. With a pronounced curvature, we are already talking about hallux valgus.

The shape of the legs is an ethnic sign. X-shaped curvature feet is more common in residents of European countries. For surgical correction, the owners of such legs turn about 10-15 times less often than about the O-shaped curvature of the legs.
It is difficult to say how often among all people there are X-foot, but men resort to the services of surgeons about 2-3 times more often than women.

An interesting observation is noteworthy: in trousers, legs with a slight hallux valgus seem straight. Straight legs, especially for thin people, in trousers seem a bit like a wheel. With severe hallux valgus, X-shaped legs, on the contrary, are not only very noticeable in trousers, but even make it difficult to wear clothes. A very common reason for seeking surgical care, especially for men, is problems in choosing model clothes.

Valgus deformity with in-depth examination is accompanied by underdevelopment of the condyles of the femur or lower leg, as well as flat feet. With age, these features can lead to the development and progression of various pathological conditions, therefore, they require the earliest possible correction.

You can be sure that we will make perfect legs in almost any case (see photo...). The point is how long this process will take. We offer three ways to correct leg varus deformity:

  • Ilizarov correction (see details below);
  • Express method;
  • Improved express method.

If you think you have a false curvature - look here.

The principle of surgical treatment is the same as for the correction of O-shaped legs - only the direction of displacement is exactly the opposite.

Appearance of a 38-year-old man with severe hallux valgus before and after correction

In the process of correction in the interests of improving the appearance, you can lengthen the legs.

Appearance and radiographs of a 56-year-old man with X-shaped legs before treatment and after correction (correction of the shape of the legs + lengthening of 4 cm).

Surgical correction of the lower leg is technically simpler and has much fewer complications than hip surgery. However, with severe valgus deformity, it is necessary to correct the nominal segment that is curved.

Radiographs of a man with post-traumatic valgus deformity of the right femur before surgery, during correction with the Ilizarov apparatus and after treatment

Considering that the principle of correction of the X-shaped curvature of the legs is the same as for the O-shaped curvature, the main features of the operation and postoperative management, as well as the cost of treatment, are the same in the treatment of both types of deformity.

At the decision-making stage and during the correction process, additional questions often arise. The answers to them are on a separate page. Here you can find out what examination you need to undergo before the operation, how to take a photo for a remote consultation and much more.

If you want to study the problem in more detail, we recommend that you refer to this book:

If you are interested in the issue under consideration, and you want to get Additional information or professional advice, call 8-909-641-36-41

Send materials in electronic form (photos, radiographs, etc.) to

Correction of congenital or acquired curvature of the legs is a prerequisite for maintaining the health of the knee joints and ankle. Modern medicine offers a number of methods of surgical intervention and special sets of exercises that allow you to successfully cope with this problem.

Legs that have curved shapes to one degree or another are a problem not only of an aesthetic, but also of a physiological nature, which can be completely solved with the help of various means of straightening. Depending on the specific case, exercises at home are applied, a massage course is performed or an operation is prescribed. Each correction method is discussed in detail in the article.

Curvature of the legs: causes and types

Often congenital factors or bone diseases suffered in childhood or adolescence lead to curvature of the legs. Less commonly, this pathology is observed in adulthood. Most often, the curvature of the legs is caused by the following reasons:

  • hereditary predisposition and birth trauma;
  • bone diseases in childhood (rickets, hip subluxation);
  • Blount's disease - the progression of osteochondrosis of the tibia, which serves as a support for the leg;
  • Paget's disease is most common in adults.

Deviations in the shape of the lower extremities can have a different degree, which is reflected in the course of treatment. The most common classification of the types of curvature (in comparison with the norm)

  1. The legs are standard (ideal) - all proportions are observed, the feet, calves and knees are in full contact, and there are only 3 gaps along the entire length of the limbs - this is easy to check if you stand up straight and press your legs as close as possible to each other.
  2. O-shaped curvature - in this case, the knees do not touch together, if the stupas are tightly moved, and an elongated oval is visually visible along the entire inner contour of the lower extremities.
  3. False curvature is distinguished by an external violation of the shape of the legs, caused by an uneven distribution of the tissue substance on the lower legs - an excess of fat or muscle. The feet and knees touch freely, but the calves do not close. This situation does not require treatment, so it is necessary to carry out cosmetic procedures.
  4. X-shaped curvature 0 in this case, the knees freely touch, but the feet cannot close together.

classification of types of curvature of the legs in comparison with the normal state

If bone correction treatment is not started in time, this can not only enhance the visual effect, but also contribute to the development of arthrosis, foot displacement, and premature diseases of the knee joints due to uneven distribution of the load.

Curvature correction with surgery

All methods for correcting the curvature of the legs can be divided into 2 large groups:

  1. Without surgery - i.e. with the help of a special set of exercises that can be performed both in the clinic and at home.
  2. With the help of surgical intervention, these are more complex cases when it is not possible to correct the deviation in another way. The cost of the operation is always determined by a specific case, but in general it starts from 120,000 rubles (taking into account the full range of services from consultation to rehabilitation).

Note! The choice of a specific method of treatment is a responsible decision that should be made only after consulting a doctor. Self-medication may not give results or aggravate the situation, since the patient cannot take into account all the nuances for choosing a particular type of therapy.

Statistics show that patients with an O-shaped deviation use orthopedic services and resort to surgery much more often (18-20 times) than those with an X-shaped curvature. There are several types of surgery, and each of them aims to directly affect the tibia to correct its shape.

Angle Correction

Often the operation is aimed at changing the angle - for example, during the procedure of angular correction, the tibia is straightened, as shown in the diagram.

As a result of such a measure, in practice, satisfactory results are achieved in the treatment of even advanced cases - examples are shown in the photo.

angular correction in 2 patients: a 19-year-old girl (left) and a 26-year-old young man (right)

Medialization

This medical term is called an operation in which not the entire tibia, but only its lower fragment, is forcibly displaced towards the perineum, as shown in the diagram.

Often this action is combined with angular correction. The main purpose of such an intervention is to achieve the aesthetic appeal of the legs, so it is most often performed in girls. X-ray and photographic images of the legs of one of the patients are shown in the figure.

girl (19 years old) before and after surgery for medi- lization of the tibia

bone rotation surgery

The rotation of a bone is understood as its rotation around the axis without displacement to the right or left. This type of intervention is less common, but it is precisely this that is used in cases where a simple rotation of the tibia to the inside is sufficient for correction. The essence is also presented in the diagram.
The corresponding images of the patients' legs are shown in the figure.

tibia rotation surgery in a girl (19 years old)

Ilizarov apparatus

Regardless of the specific type of surgical intervention, its essence is approximately the same:

  1. Small incisions are made on the skin (deep to the tibia)
  2. The bone is brought out in the right direction - it is shifted along the axis to the required angle.
  3. After that, it is necessary for the bone to get used to the new position - i.e. fixed. Schematically, the process is shown in the figure.

during the operation, a forced displacement of the axis of the tibia is carried out, due to which the legs acquire the correct shape over time

For this, special devices for straightening are used. The most popular is the so-called Ilizarov apparatus, which has been successfully used in domestic medicine for several decades.

This apparatus is a special design made of stainless steel alloy. It is implanted directly into the body of the bone with the help of pins, which are rigidly fixed into the bone tissue. Thanks to the special rings to which the spokes are attached, the device is used for stretching or vice versa tightening the bone, which allows you to customize it for any individual case.

The operation to implant the device is performed under general or regional anesthesia, so the patient will not feel any pain.

Ilizarov apparatus on the patient's leg after surgery

Note! Since the needles penetrate directly into the soft and hard tissues of the lower extremities, it is imperative to take constant care of all structural elements: it is necessary to treat them daily with any antiseptic - for example, medical alcohol or ordinary vodka. Specific recommendations for the care of the device and the leg during rehabilitation are given by the attending physician.

Due to the fact that with the help of this design it is possible to keep the foot in the same position, it is possible to solve several problems at once:

  • lengthening or shortening of the limb, if necessary;
  • prevention of rotational displacements of the tibia - i.e. changes in its position due to rotational movements;
  • removal of the head of the fibula, which protrudes beyond the normal position and thereby exacerbates the curvature of the legs.

The device is worn until complete recovery, which usually occurs after 1.5-2 months. Each case is individual, but in general, the deviation from this period, as in b about either upward or downward is observed in no more than 10% of patients. The device allows you to perform normal walking - it is worn under clothing, and over time the patient manages to get used to it: the weight of the product does not exceed 1 kg.

Often patients are interested in whether it is possible to correct the lower extremities without the Ilizarov apparatus. Here it should be said that this method is the most common - it is most often used during rehabilitation after surgery, since without long-term fixation of the bone in a new position, it is likely to return to its original, incorrect position. Therefore, an apparatus or other means of rehabilitation is always used to consolidate the surgical result.

Often, questions are also asked how much the Ilizarov apparatus costs, and where it can be purchased. Such a device is ordered in specialized stores medical technology, many of which have their own websites. The cost largely depends on several factors:

  • dimensions: children's devices are cheaper than adults;
  • purpose: for the thigh, lower leg (there are also for hands);
  • manufacturer (the price of products of different brands can vary greatly).

Approximate prices at which you can purchase the Ilizarov apparatus are presented in the table.

Complete devices and individual parts are sold - knitting needles, half rings, rods and others. In most cases, the design is created on the basis of different elements that are purchased separately.

Leg curvature correction without surgery

Surgery is not always required to correct this defect. There are many cases where surgery is not appropriate because the curvature can be corrected with exercises, special devices, or cosmetic procedures.

O-Curvature Correction Exercises

Treatment of deviation in the early stages is quite possible with the help of simple exercises, most of which can be performed without special devices. For example, in the case of O-curvature, on a daily basis, the following cycle of tasks should be performed:

  1. Walking with support only on the inside of the foot.
  2. Walking with support only on the heels (socks stretch outward).
  3. Squats in a position with combined heels and very apart toes (feet are located almost on the same line).
  4. Leg abduction to the side in a free state and with the help of a rubber cord tension (power abduction).
  5. Raising the legs in different directions and making circular movements with support on the side (leaning against the wall).
  6. Lifts and circular movements of the leg in the prone position (on each side alternately).
  7. Leg swings with “scissors” (intersecting) in the prone position.

Each exercise is performed in several cycles, the number and duration of which are agreed with the attending physician. In addition, the possibility of practicing a sport that is best suited for such a deviation should be discussed: swimming, dancing (ballet), speed skating.

X-Curvature Correction Exercises

For this case, the following set of classes is applied:

  1. Walking with support only on the outer sides of the foot.
  2. Performing squats while pinching the ball between the knees.
  3. Yoga classes - long sitting in the lotus position.

Some sports (equestrian, cycling, and breaststroke) are also well suited for the treatment of such a deviation. Special attention yoga should be given - it is worth discussing this possibility with your doctor.

Exercises on the simulator

Some exercises on a special leg simulator also effectively help to cope with pathology in the early stages of development. The simplest option is to execute a loop like this:

  1. Position yourself on the simulator so that when the legs are extended, it is at a height of no more than a third of the lower leg. Place your feet shoulder-width apart.
  2. Next, you need to press your back against the surface and gradually straighten your legs at the knees.
  3. Then also smoothly return the legs to their original position.

In the exercise cycle, you should gradually increase the weight of the load, focusing on your feelings. The correct location on the simulator during classes is shown in the photo.

The purpose of the exercises on the simulator is to correct the relief and shape of the quadriceps femoris muscle.

Application of massage

In some cases, a special massage course allows you to solve the problem of the curved shape of the legs without surgery. Only a specialist can carry it out. Typically, the procedure includes not only massage of the lower extremities, but also the buttocks, back - this allows you to tone the whole body and achieve the best effect.

The massage course is mainly carried out for children and is carried out several times a year (3-4 cycles) with long sessions. Massage is usually combined with other therapies for a quick recovery of the patient.

Bandage application

This tool is often prescribed by orthopedists to correct curvature. It is easy to use at home - however, walking at this time will not work, since the therapeutic effect is achieved by tightening the limbs together.

The device is used daily for several hours, and while wearing it, you need to perform several exercises:


There are many more exercises with a bandage - you should learn in detail about the full course and the mode of their implementation from the orthopedist and follow his instructions.

False curvature correction

False curvature is associated with the features of the soft tissues, and not the structure of the legs themselves, so the correction methods in this case are completely different. In fact, these are cosmetic procedures that allow you to bring your legs into the correct shape. In some cases, surgery is necessary:

  1. Lipofilling is an operation to implant your own fat (often from the thighs or abdomen) taken from other parts of the body into some areas of the lower legs. As a result, the legs acquire the correct shape and look much more attractive.
  2. Treatment with implants that are placed on the back or inside of the legs, depending on the specific case.
  3. Cruroplasty (correction of the shape of the shins) based on silicone pads are special products that are filled with a gel, due to which they become very similar in properties to muscle tissue. They are implanted in the lower leg, like conventional implants.

Note! When choosing a specific plastic surgery method, it is important to understand that the success of the operation largely depends on the doctor. Good reviews are repeatedly received about Dr. Teterin Oleg Gennadievich, who works in one of the clinics in Volgograd.

Curvature of the legs is not a sentence, and modern medical technology has made it possible to achieve successful results even in cases where the angle of deviation was too large. It is important to consult with an orthopedist and start treatment immediately.

The shape of the legs is not only one of the main parameters of female beauty and attractiveness, but also an extremely important component of what is commonly called the quality of life. The happy owner of slender legs does not have to complex on the beach, limit herself in the styles of clothing, be embarrassed by short skirts and dresses.

Unfortunately, not all women are lucky with the structure of such a significant part of the body. Crooked legs - what to do and how to fix such an unpleasant flaw? According to statistics, every second representative of the fair sex is more or less concerned about this issue. Yes, and among men there are many who want to correct their natural data.

True and false curvature of the legs. X- and O-shaped curvature

From an aesthetic point of view, legs are considered correct from an aesthetic point of view, which, when fully adducted, touch at four points: the middle of the thigh, knees, the middle of the lower leg and heels. Deviations from this canon are divided into X-shaped and O-shaped curvature. With an X-shaped, the legs touch at the knees and diverge at the bottom, with an O-shaped, only the heels touch, and there is a gap between the knees and shins.

At the same time, the nature of the curvature of the legs is also important for the subsequent correction: true or false. True curvature is a consequence of defects in the structure of the skeleton, in which case correction without orthopedic surgery is impossible. False is due to the structure of soft tissues - here the choice of treatment is wider, the result can be obtained without surgery, for example, using a set of special exercises. Fortunately for most women, it is this type of curvature that is diagnosed in the vast majority of cases.

Exercises to correct the curvature of the legs without surgery

With the help of physical exercises, it is possible to correct the false curvature of the legs to a certain extent by increasing muscle mass in problem areas. As a rule, such complexes include a load on the target muscle in combination with stretching.

To increase the volume of calves, the following exercises are used:

  • Rises on socks (with or without additional weight)
  • Foot presses on the leg machine
  • Running on stairs with rise on toes at every step

There is, however, an unpleasant fact: the calves are among the muscles that are the least noticeably responsive to training. Flat from birth shins are extremely difficult to increase by more than 1-2 centimeters. This volume may be enough for proper shape correction, or it may not be enough.

Work with the muscles of the legs in general will also give a good result: to the above exercises, you need to add squats, as well as bending and straightening the legs on the simulator. The slightly increased muscle mass will be distributed more evenly over the bone, making the legs appear straighter.

Besides, even well-shaped legs can look crooked as a result of the individual characteristics of their staging. The habit of walking with your knees inward or vice versa - outward leads to a distortion of the true shape of the legs. This drawback is perhaps the easiest to fix: any exercises with a load on the lower body are suitable, it is enough to keep your legs and feet parallel when performing them (as well as during normal walking). Gradually, the correct setting will become a habit and the “acquired” curvature will disappear.

How to fix crooked legs with a guarantee?

If the exercises do not give the desired result, or if we are talking about true curvature caused by the structure of the bone structure of the legs, the only way out is a surgical operation: plastic or orthopedic.

Many perceive such radical methods with a share of negativity, since we are talking about a serious intervention and a long recovery period (and in the case of orthopedics, also the need to endure pain for some time). However, in this case, the goal justifies the means by 100% - any, even the most complex cases of curvature, can be corrected, and the result will be preserved for life.

Plastic surgery that allows you to straighten the shape of the legs is called. It is indicated mainly for false curvature and consists in the installation of silicone implants that increase the volume and correct the shape of the lower leg. The operation takes no more than an hour, and rehabilitation period- 1.5-2 months, after which you can return to your normal routine. There is also a more gentle option -. Instead of an implant, the patient's own fat cells are injected, but this method has its limitations: it is only suitable for correcting a slight curvature and, in addition, requires the presence of "free" fat in the patient's body.

Leg straightening surgery

The only way to correct the true curvature of the legs is orthopedic surgery. It will also be the best choice for patients with false curvature, but at the same time small stature and relatively large legs - in their case, additional muscle mass or implants can correct the shape, but from an aesthetic point of view, the result will not be very good, since the legs will become even more “heavier” ".

Surgical correction of the shape of the legs performed using the Ilizarov apparatus- a special device that allows you to act directly on the bone structure. The operation consists in dissecting the bone, after which its parts are fixed by the apparatus and gradually fused in the desired position.

It is necessary to wear this design for about 2-3 months, but after 3-4 weeks the patient can move independently and do any daily activities (with the exception of physical activity). At the same time, modern Ilizarov devices are very compact, which minimizes the inconvenience and discomfort associated with wearing them.


Way Indications Notes
Without surgery:
The external effect of curvature is not due to the structure of the legs, but to the peculiarities of their setting Effective, but only suitable for those whose legs are initially straight
Limited potential, low efficiency
False curvature Only suitable for slight curvature
False curvature It is necessary to have fat deposits in other parts of the body. Periodic maintenance treatments may be required
Surgically:
Plastic surgery () False curvature, lack of soft tissues in the shin area A very effective method due to the ability to choose an implant of an individual size and shape, but it has limited indications
True curvature, isolated cases of false curvature Helps in cases where other methods do not give the desired result

How much does it cost to straighten your legs?

The final cost of correcting the curvature of the legs depends on many factors: the chosen technique and specialist, the initial state, geography, etc. Approximate price guidelines can be seen below.

Average prices for the main methods of correcting the curvature of the legs
Way What is included in the costs
Estimated cost
Without surgery:
Exercises for the correct setting of the knees and feet Subscription to the gym or a specialized section (dancing, gymnastics, etc.), instructor hours A large variation in cost, depending on the geographical location, status and pricing policy of the institution
Calf building exercises
Exercises that increase the overall muscle mass of the legs
Analyzes and preliminary consultation; taking fat cells and placing them in the desired area; corrective and maintenance procedures 80-150 thousand rubles
Surgically:
Plastic surgery () Analyzes and preliminary consultation; the cost of the implant; anesthesia; the work of the surgeon; hospital 80-200 thousand rubles
Orthopedic surgery (Ilizarov apparatus) Analyzes and preliminary consultation; anesthesia; the work of the surgeon; installation and removal of the device; rehabilitation procedures; hospital 40-100 thousand rubles

Crooked legs are a defect that occurs in many women and men. In childhood, this is normal. But over time, in girls and women, such a defect as crooked and ugly legs can bring a lot of inconvenience and complexes. Doctors distinguish between O-shaped legs (varus curvature) and X-shaped curvature of the legs (valgus).

Imperfect leg shape may not mean that you have crooked legs. Therefore, first you need to figure out whether you really have a similar defect. You can determine the presence of a curvature at home on your own. Stand up straight with your back completely against the wall (shoulders, buttocks and heels should be firmly pressed to the plane).

Look closely at your reflection in the mirror. Legs that touch each other in four places are considered normal: mid-thigh, knees, mid-calf and heels. In some cases, excessive thinness or fullness can affect the visible picture and there may be fewer or more “windows”.

If there are no deviations in the indicated indicators, then the problem under consideration is most likely far-fetched. What can not be said if the number of gaps is more or less. In this case, you need to see a doctor who can accurately determine the presence of a problem. The types of curvature of the legs are described in the table.

The reasons why curvature of the legs occur can be varied.

The main reason is heredity. If one of the parents has a similar defect, then the likelihood that the child will have crooked legs is very high. Lack of calcium and vitamin D in the body can also lead to leg deformities.

In adulthood, the disease can appear in women due to pregnancy. X-shaped legs provide better pelvic support when carrying a baby. In men, the X-shaped shape of the legs often occurs due to obesity. Also, X-shaped legs in men can be associated with regular weight lifting.

Professional participation in some sports can also lead to the defect in question (for example, in male football players). Congenital or acquired weakness of the muscles and ligaments of the lower extremities are also common causes of the problem. Lack of regular physical activity, a sedentary lifestyle are the main factors due to which the development of the disease begins.

Features of X-shaped and O-shaped curvatures

X-shaped legs and O-shaped curvature feet are very common problems among millions of adults. Crooked legs are not only a cosmetic defect. In addition to worries and excessive focus on such a flaw as crooked legs, it can also have a serious negative impact on the health of the whole organism.

The fact is that with such a deformation, the load on the knee joints is unevenly distributed, which leads to wear on one side of the cartilage. It can even cause a person's disability. The curvature of the letter X or O can also provoke the appearance of flat feet.

A slight inclination of the knees inward is normal. The angle of deviation of the lower leg in men is about 7 degrees. In women, it is more - up to 10 degrees. In X-shaped curvature, the knees are tightly adjacent to each other, and there is a large distance between the ankles. The O-shaped curvature of the legs is characterized by the contact of the limbs only in the area of ​​​​the feet.

Crooked legs are normal in children. The knee joint is deformed in such a way that the ends of the femur and tibia bend inward or outward. But it is necessary to constantly monitor the development of pathology and regularly do examinations with a doctor. Until the age of 14, the child's skeleton can be corrected with the help of special exercises, massages and orthopedic devices.

At adult women and men, the defect is corrected only with the help of surgery. False curvature of the legs is characterized by a curvature of soft tissues, not bone. Insufficient muscle volume visually distorts the legs and spoils their appearance. In such cases, classes in the gym are used to pump up unexpressed or weak muscles.

It is impossible to pump up muscles under the knee. Therefore, the cavity is filled with a silicone implant, which is installed during plastic surgery. But such an operation is completely optional, and is carried out only if any imperfections prevent a person from living. Surgery for true curvature is necessary in most cases.

The main tool in the fight against this problem for many decades has been the Ilizarov apparatus. Before installing the device, a bone is cut, which is then fixed with this device in an anatomically correct position.

It is good when a person does not have any complexes about his appearance, but he must be attentive to his body. At the slightest manifestations and alarming symptoms, you should consult a doctor. This is especially important in childhood, when it is still possible to correct the situation without resorting to surgery.

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.

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, for example, rickets, or metabolic disorders.

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.

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:

  1. Stand straight in front of the mirror, bend one limb and observe the kneecap of the straight supporting leg. If it is shifted inward - you have an O-shaped deformation, outwardly - an X-shaped one.
  2. Put your hands on your belt, do a simple squat at a 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. As a result of age-related changes or ligament injuries, joints that are not fastened by them can become loose, as a result, the knees stop closing. On your own, it can be difficult to figure out why 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. It does not cause harm to physical health, but 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.

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 inner surface of the thigh and lower leg. So, we present you exercises for crooked legs at home.

  1. Walking on the inner arches of the foot and on the heels with outward looking socks, lifting on the toes and other exercises for the calf muscles.
  2. Running or walking up stairs, lifting up on your toes with each step. Can be replaced by "Stepping on the bench."
  3. 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. Read more about all types of squats here.
  4. Leg swings to the side from a standing position - free or with sports rubber.
  5. Raises of straight legs: one leg lying on its side, alternately from a sitting position with support on the hands behind
  6. "Scissors" vertical and horizontal or "Bicycle".
  7. 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.
  8. Breeding. Feet - shoulder-width apart, bring your knees closer and apart without tearing off the entire surface of your feet from the floor.
  9. 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 engage in 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:

The abductor muscles of the outer surface of the thigh are subject to study.

  1. Walking on the outer arches of the foot.
  2. The so-called "Walking on your knees" and other exercises to strengthen the muscles around the knees.
  3. Weighting is gradually increased from session to session.
  4. Swing the leg to the side with the toe pulled over - from a position with emphasis on the knees and elbows, lying on your side or standing.
  5. Side lunges. The step to the side should be wide, arms extended in front of you, heels do not come off the floor.
  6. Squats - regular or with the ball sandwiched between the knees.
  7. Static exercise "Stool against the wall."
  8. 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.
  9. 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.
  10. 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 will benefit those with X-shaped legs are yoga, breaststroke swimming, 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! The most effective exercise for adding volume to the calves is lifting on the toe. To build muscle mass, you need to do not 50 or more repetitions, but 12-15 in three approaches, preferably with an additional weight of 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?

There are two options for orthopedic surgery:

1. 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 activity is excluded for 4-6 weeks. This method can be called traditional, but, according to experts, its application gives the maximum result.

2. An operation in a plastic surgery clinic 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.

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.

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

With regular exercise, it gradually relieves spasms and tension in the bones and joints, restores blood circulation, lengthens the limbs.

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.

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 - from the 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 godet, boots with a free shaft 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 stomach after all, in such a 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;
  • walk in high heels which keeps the muscles tense. 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 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!

Such a phenomenon as X-shaped legs in a child is considered a pathology that occurs quite often. The reasons for such deformation may appear during the period of intrauterine development, but may also arise at the stage of the beginning of independent movements. Of course, it will not affect human health, but the presence of such a noticeable external defect can create many everyday problems. The problem is typical for a child of 2 years old, and it is at this age (possibly earlier) that it is worth starting active treatment, while the skeletal and muscular system is still at the development stage. At an early age, the defect can be corrected by conservative treatment.

The concept of X-shaped legs in children (valgus curvature) implies a pathological deformity, when a child standing straight with legs brought together at the knees has a gap between the heels of at least 50 mm. In this case, the shape of the legs (from the sole to the thigh) resembles a classic hourglass. This deformity can be congenital or acquired, with the latter mechanism being more often fixed. The most noticeable defect in the legs in children under the age of 2-3 years. As they grow older, the curvature, as a rule, smooths out or disappears altogether.

In adults, the angle of deviation of the lower leg is considered normal up to 6 - 7 ° in men and up to 8 - 9 ° in women. If there is a greater displacement, we can talk about the fact that a person has X-shaped legs with pathological deformity.

Why is the X-shaped form considered a pathology requiring treatment? Such curvature of the legs leads to a violation of the distribution of the load from its own weight on the articular elements of the tibia, overload of the knee joints, as a result of which gonarthrosis develops already in young years. Improper positioning of the limbs causes chronic muscle strain when walking or standing. It causes an appropriate posture and provokes flat feet. Finally, the defect is very noticeable visually, which leads to psychological problems, and sometimes neurological abnormalities.

It should also be noted the possibility of manifestation of the so-called false deformation. Outwardly, the child has a valgus deformity, but it is not associated with a violation of bone tissue. The curvature occurs due to certain features of the placement of soft tissues. Treatment of such a defect is not carried out, and it gradually eliminates itself.

Congenital X-shaped curvature of the legs in a child is due to an abnormal process of ossification of the external condyle of the femur. A defective leg in a child is noticeable immediately after birth: in a normal newborn child, the O-shaped shape of the legs should be fixed. Almost always, a congenital type of defect is found in parallel with the deformity of the femoral neck and flat feet.

A more common type of anomaly is considered to be acquired X-deformity. The baby's legs begin to bend when trying to get up and move on their own. In this case, there are significant loads on the joints, and they and their bone elements are still very weak. Particularly dangerous in this regard is an unnecessarily early start of walking, without proper coordination on the part of the parents. Instinctively, the baby spreads its legs wide to maintain balance, which creates an excessive load on fragile joints.

An aggravating factor can be excessive body weight of the child. If its weight is normal, then a greater risk of the appearance of an X-shaped form occurs in weak, thin children. They, as a rule, have a weaker musculoskeletal apparatus, which causes deformation. It should be noted that in girls the acquired X-shaped curvature appears more often than in boys. This is due to the physiology of the structure of the pelvis, and the curvature is more significant in the presence of a shortened femur with a wide pelvis.

Some diseases can also cause pathological deformation. This is most typical of rickets. In addition, the weakening of the bone structure occurs with kidney diseases that disrupt calcium metabolism, and other diseases leading to the removal of calcium from bone tissue.

Usually considered curvature implies pathology in both limbs, i.e. bilateral deformation. However, in rare cases, a unilateral anomaly is noted, which concerns the curvature of only one leg in a child. The etiology of such defects is associated with fractures within the joint of the condyles of the tibia and femur, areas of compression-type metaphyses, and a diaphyseal femur and tibia with angular displacement. This type of deformation can also be generated by congenital factors:

  • hip dysplasia and congenital hip dislocation;
  • hypoplasia of the tibia;
  • improper formation of the knee joint;
  • tumor formations in cartilage and bone tissue.

Valgus curvature is noticeable visually, which facilitates diagnosis. The child develops an awkward, unsteady gait. Minor pain in the legs, muscle cramps may disturb. The baby gets tired quickly when moving. If signs of pathology are found, then it is necessary to control the dynamics of the change in the defect. If there is a tendency to reduce the curvature, the treatment process should not be overly intensified.

Prolonged presence of stable X-deformation can cause serious violations. In particular, abnormal changes in the knee joint, foot, and even the spinal column may occur. In the knee joint, a gradual stretching of the collateral ligaments occurs, which leads to its instability and lateral deformation. Radiography indicates uneven joint space, beveling of the external bone condyles. Congenital pathology on an x-ray appears as a blurry contour of the ossified area of ​​​​the external condyles.

On the feet of a child with X-shaped legs, flat feet form, which aggravates the overall picture, adding problems with walking. The arches of the foot are flattened, which is confirmed by the results of plantography and the Friedland index. With uneven damage to the limbs (one leg is curved more than the other), the child's body deviates from the vertical axis, which violates posture and provokes scoliosis.

In the case when the deformation is not pronounced, special treatment is not carried out, but observation by a pediatric orthopedist is recommended. With a pronounced pathological curvature of the legs, conservative therapy is necessary. It includes massage, exercise, wearing orthopedic shoes, physiotherapy. If the pathology has a significant deviation from the norm, then the doctor can install special devices (orthoses, splints).

An important role is given to therapeutic massage, which should be entrusted to a specialist. He is tasked with strengthening the muscles of the thighs and lower leg in the inner area, as well as muscle relaxation from the outside. It is useful to stimulate the muscular system of the lower back, buttocks, and back. Massage sessions begin with procedures lasting 12 - 15 minutes, gradually increasing to 30 - 35 minutes.

  • the lumbar region is massaged with movements from the spinal column to the sides and down;
  • the gluteal zone is processed in a circular motion;
  • the hips on the back surface are stroked in the direction from the popliteal fossa outward and upward;
  • back region of the lower leg - movements go from the ankle to the knee;
  • the knee is massaged circularly from the outside;
  • the foot is affected in the back area, starting with the toes and moving towards the ankle.

Additionally, such types of massage as kneading, rubbing, pinching, patting are used. It is important that the procedure does not cause pain in the child.

Treatment of deformity with the help of certain physical exercises gives a noticeable positive effect with the regularity of classes and right choice exercise therapy. The following simple exercises resembling games are recommended for the child:

  1. Turkish sultan: taking the lotus position, i.e. squatting with knees apart and feet together.
  2. Crow's feet: flexion and extension of the ankle joint. It can be performed simultaneously on both limbs or alternately.
  3. Bicycle: in the supine position, circular movements of the legs are carried out.
  4. Bear: walking with rolling from side to side. The load is distributed on the outer surface of the foot.
  5. Monkey: grasping small objects with toes.
  6. Heron: moving, standing on toes.
  7. Horse: imitation of the movement on a horse, sitting on the parent's knee.
  8. Acrobat: walking along a drawn line, placing the feet as far as possible closer friend to friend.

Physiotherapy treatment is prescribed for significant stable deformities. The most commonly used electrical stimulation is by applying electrical impulses of adjustable duration. This procedure activates muscle activity, improves blood supply to the limbs.

Diet therapy is also an element of the complex treatment of pathology. Calcium and phosphorus are needed to strengthen bones. These trace elements must be delivered with food. Of the foods rich in calcium, the following can be noted: dairy products, fish and seafood, eggs. A large amount of phosphorus is present in meat, nuts, legumes. Vitamin D ensures the effective use of these trace elements.

Deformity in the form of an X-shaped curvature of the legs is found in babies aged 2-3 years very often. In many cases, such a defect is eliminated on its own, but this pathology must be controlled. If the deformation of the legs of a pathological nature is not eliminated in early childhood, then in an adult it will result in big problems associated with various articular pathologies.

X-shaped curvature of the legs is not only an aesthetic nuisance, but also a violation of the health of the legs (especially the feet and joints), as well as posture and gait. There are problems with balance, stability when walking, legs get tired, joints and feet hurt, there are cramps, there is a high probability of flat feet. A physiological gait “from the hip” is practically impossible, since a person with X-shaped legs has to move his legs not in a straight line, but in a circle, as if bypassing the other leg due to an obstacle in the area of ​​​​the knee joints. A shuffling gait is formed. In addition, with X-shaped legs, trousers wear out due to friction of the inner surfaces of the thighs and shoes are trampled inside. Walking with worn shoes inside looks ugly, especially if a woman wears shoes with heels. This defect, of course, must be corrected not only to restore the health and beauty of the legs, but also for the overall health of the body. Therapeutic exercises for X-shaped curvature of the legs is a mandatory treatment.
An essential condition for successful treatment is an examination by an orthopedist or surgeon, since the curvature of the legs does not happen in isolation, it is necessary to find out what other problems with the musculoskeletal system exist. This will determine an individual approach both in exercise therapy and in therapeutic massage and other activities (orthopedic insoles, posture corrector). For example, it may be that one leg is bent more than the other, and scoliosis is formed, it is clear that in this case the treatment is selected strictly individually.

The main reasons for the formation of X-shaped curvature of the legs.

1. Early start of the child's walking.

2. Rickets (lack of vitamin D). 3. Violation of calcium metabolism. 4. Muscle weakness. 5. Longitudinal or mixed flat feet. 6. Heredity. 7. Valgus deformity of the knee joint. 8. Injuries and diseases of the joints of the legs. 9. Overweight.

With an X-shaped curvature of the legs, the inner surfaces of the thighs are brought together, the knees are in contact, and the shins are apart, the feet are at least 5 cm apart from each other, an incorrect setting of the feet occurs: a person walks on the inner arch of the feet, which are also in the position of abduction in sides, flat feet occur; lumbar lordosis increases compensatory due to pain in the legs and back, posture is disturbed more often by the type of a round-concave back.

Weakened muscles that perform the following functions: 1. Supination of the foot (placement of the foot on the outer arch) - anterior and posterior tibial and long extensor of the thumb, 2. Plantar flexion of the foot - muscles located on the posterior and lateral surface of the lower leg (triceps tibia, long flexor of the fingers , posterior tibial, long and short peroneal muscles). 3. Adduction of the foot (towards the thumb) - these are muscles located on the anterior-inner surface of the lower leg, both peroneal. 4. Pronation of the lower leg - flexors from the inside: semitendinosus, semimembranosus, tailoring, tender, gastrocnemius, 5. Gluteal muscles. 6. Abduction and adduction of the thigh (it is necessary to strengthen all the muscles of the thighs).

tense muscles ( increased tone) carrying out

1. pronation of the foot (positioning on the internal arch) - both peroneal, located on the lateral surface of the lower leg, 2. abduction of the foot (towards the little finger) - both peroneal, 3. supination of the lower leg (two-headed thigh, gastrocnemius), 4. lower back muscles.

When correcting the x-shaped curvature of the legs, it must be taken into account that the knee joint is also deformed. When straightening the x-shaped legs, the ligaments of the knees are stretched in the lateral part of the knee joints. Inaccurate exercise can damage the ligaments of the knee joints. So exercises for X-shaped curvature of the legs should be performed smoothly, with elements of gentle springiness.

Must be included in a set of exercises for x-shaped curvature of the legs exercises to strengthen the abdominal muscles, back, hips, buttocks. It is necessary to train balance and posture. It is highly recommended to exercise on an exercise bike barefoot (in socks), recreational swimming, walking on pebbles or a ribbed surface to strengthen the muscles of the legs and feet. At the same time, constant self-control is needed: strive to walk on the outer sides of the feet, slightly turn the toes of the feet inward and take the knees to the sides. I recommend limiting the vertical load on the knee joints until all the muscles of the legs are strengthened, since the weakened muscles are not able to hold the bones and joints in the correct position. Do not jump or run. Eliminate standing exercises with legs wide apart. Let's define tasks Exercise therapy for X-shaped curvature of the legs. 1. Strengthen the strength of the muscles of flexion, adduction and supination of the feet, flexion of the toes, thigh muscles, gluteal muscles, back, lumbar muscle corset. 2. Stretch and relax tense muscles in the legs and lower back. 3. Form the correct posture.

one). Starting position - lying on your back, arms along the body, legs straightened.

1 - Hands through the sides move along the floor up to the head, the feet unbend (toward themselves), stretch the heels down, inhale. 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 - Alternately stretch each heel down, stretching the back surfaces of the legs, the Achilles tendon and lower back, focus on the outer sides of the feet and the outer surfaces of the knee joints. 8 - Return to starting position. 3 times.

2). Starting position - lying on your back, raise your head and upper body, leaning on your elbows, legs straightened and slightly apart, look at the feet.

1 - Press the left foot with the plantar part just above the knee joint to the right thigh, moving the knee of the left leg to the side, preferably to the floor. 2 - Turn the right foot inward, trying to reach the floor with the thumb, the foot is rounded, acquiring the appearance of a clubfoot foot. 3 - Keeping this position of the legs, stretch with the outside of the foot and the heel down. Stretching should be done very slowly, smoothly, as cramps in the lower leg and foot may occur. 4 - Return to starting position. Do the same with the other leg. 5 times with each leg.

3). Starting position - lying on your back, arms along the body, legs straightened.

1 - Press the right foot with the plantar part to the ankle. 2, 3 - With a sliding movement, move the foot along the inner surface of the left leg up, trying to press the foot harder to the leg and move the knee to the side as much as possible. The right foot at the same time acquires the position of a clubfoot foot. 4 - Return to the starting position. Do the same on the other side. 8 - 10 times.

4). Starting position - sitting on the floor, bend your legs as much as possible at the knee joints, take your knees to the sides to the floor, connect the soles of the feet, trying to put the feet on the outer surface of the feet as much as possible. The feet press firmly against each other with the outer sides and toes. Put the brushes on the floor in front of the feet.

1 - Slowly move the hands forward, straightening and stretching the arms forward, lower the head down and put the forehead on the floor in front of the feet (optional). Lie down in this position for several seconds, relaxing the muscles of the body and legs, except for the feet, which press against each other with the outer sides of the feet. 2 - Return to starting position. 3 times.

5). Starting position - lying on your back, legs bent at the knees at an angle of 90 degrees and resting with your feet against the wall with your toes inward (toes to each other), your knees are laid to the sides as far as possible, your arms are straightened up and lie on the floor near your head.

1, 2, 3 - Raise your arms and stretch them to the feet with springy movements, raising your head and upper shoulder girdle as high as possible. 4 - Return to starting position. Until the fatigue of the muscles of the abdomen and legs. * There may be cramps in the legs, the exercise should be done gently, smoothly.

6). Starting position - lying on your back, legs straightened and laid apart wider than shoulders, between the hips closer to the knees put a dense roller with a diameter of 10 - 15 cm,

on the lower part of the shins (closer to the feet), put on wide elastic bands attached, for example, to the legs of the table. 1 - Connect the legs, pulling the elastic bands, while the roller located between the thighs creates a condition for straightening the x-shaped curvature of the legs. 2 - Return to starting position. Until the muscles of the legs are tired. * Exercise to perform carefully, gently and smoothly, in order to prevent damage to the knee joints, focus on them. *To prevent the table legs from loosening, you can insert a wooden block between them as a spacer.

7). Starting position - lying on your back, legs straightened and shoulder-width apart, arms bent at the elbow joints, hands pointing up (towards the ceiling).

Rotate the hands and feet with full amplitude down, then up for 10 circles. Repeat again.

eight). Starting position - lying on your back, legs straightened, put on a wide elastic band on the hips just above the knees.

1 - Spread your legs to the sides, stretching the elastic band, inhale. 2 - Return to the starting position, exhale. Until muscle fatigue.

nine). Lying on your back, hands under your head.

Bend the legs at the knee joints, raise them, turn the feet with plantar surfaces towards each other and perform clapping with the feet (just like clapping). To slight muscle fatigue.

ten). Starting position - kneeling, sit on the feet, which lie with the back to the floor.

1 - With your left hand, grab the left knee and carefully raise the leg in such a position that the foot touches the floor, and the knee is raised up, at this time the back of the foot is stretched. 2 - Return to the starting position. 3, 4 - Do the same with the right leg. 3 times. * You can put your feet a little in the position of "clubfoot" to correct the setting of the feet, characteristic of the X-shaped curvature of the legs.

eleven). "Zig-Zag".

Starting position - sitting on the edge of a chair, legs together, hands holding on to the seat at the back. We rearrange the feet either to the sides, or together in a special way. 1 - Heels apart, (socks together). 2 - Move the socks so that the feet are parallel to each other ("feet straight"). 3 - We continue to rearrange the feet to the sides: heels apart. 4 - Feet straight. * So we continue to the limit, as far as you can take your legs to the sides. We return back to the starting position in this order: 1 - Turn the socks inward, 2 - Feet exactly (parallel to each other). 3 - Socks inside. 4 - Feet straight. Until the feet are closed. 4 times. * Try not to connect your knees, but spread them apart.

12). "Worms".

Starting position - sitting on the edge of a chair, hands hold on to the back of the seat, legs together. 1 - Reach forward with your toes, press your toes to the floor. 2 - Raise the heels and bring them as close as possible to the fingers, press the heels to the floor. 3 - Stretch your toes forward again, emphasis with your fingers. 4 - Move your heels towards your toes. And so on, the feet like “worms” move forward, either stretching out the fingers, or moving the heels towards them. The same in reverse order. 4 times.

thirteen). "Boat". Starting position - lying on your stomach, straighten your arms forward, legs tightly closed, buttocks are compressed.

1 - Raise straightened arms and legs above the floor, hands pressed to the head at ear level. Stretch your spine. Hold the position for 1 minute. 2 - Return to the starting position. 1 time.

fourteen). "A bike". Starting position - lying on your back, arms along the body or under the head, legs bent at the knees. Simulate cycling with maximum amplitude, lowering the straightened leg to the floor, until the abdominal muscles are tired.
* Try all the time to remember the feet and knee joints, you need to develop the habit of consciously giving the feet the position of "clubfoot" and strive to correct the x-shaped shape of the legs.

fifteen). "Breaststroke swimming".

Starting position - lying on your stomach, straightened legs tightly pressed against each other. 1 - Straighten your arms forward, head goes down, exhale. 2 - Take your arms to the sides, raise your head and upper shoulder girdle, start inhaling. 3 - Bring the arms along the body, continuing to inhale. 4 - Bend your arms, the hands are near the shoulder joints, exhale. Continue without stopping smoothly, with a wide range of arm movements. 10 times.

sixteen). Starting position - lying on your back, legs straightened, hands in the "castle" at the back of the head, elbows laid to the sides.

1 - Simultaneously connect the right elbow and left knee, exhale. 2 - Return to the starting position, inhale. 3 - Connect the left elbow and right knee, exhale. 4 - Return to the starting position, inhale. * When bending the leg at the knee joint, try to make the foot clubfoot and turn the toe inward.

17). Starting position - lying on the left side, legs straightened.

Raise and lower the right leg 20-30 times. Turn to the right side and repeat the movements with the left leg. * Leg weights can be used. Diversify this exercise by drawing circles with a straightened leg in one direction and the other. eighteen). Lying on the left side, legs straightened. 1, 2 - With the right foot (plantar surface) slide up and down the left shin, trying to press it as hard as possible to the shin; the knee of the right leg should be taken up (toward the ceiling). 3, 4 - Return to the starting position. 10-20 times. Do the same lying on the right side.

nineteen). Starting position - lying on your stomach, arms bent at the elbows, lie in front of you, the head lies on the hands, legs are straightened and tightly pressed to each other.

1 - Raise closed legs above the floor and push them apart, inhale. 2 - Put your legs apart, relax, exhale. 3 - Raise the spread legs and close them, inhale. 4 - Lower closed legs, relax, exhale. 10 times.

20). Starting position - sitting on the edge of the chair, legs apart shoulder-width apart, hands resting on the back of the seat.

1 - Bend your toes. 2 - Place the feet with bent toes on the outer sides of the feet. 3 - Turn the toes of the feet inward. 4 - Return to the starting position, relax the feet. 10 - 12 times.

21). "Big circles with legs."
Sitting on the edge of a chair, lean your hands behind you, connect your feet with the plantar sides, take your knees to the sides. Raising your legs in this position, draw circles with your feet forward (away from you) and in the opposite direction (towards yourself) with a large amplitude. 10 laps in each direction.

22). Starting position - standing, legs together, focusing on the outer sides of the feet.
Rolling from heels to toes and back. 10 times.

23). Starting position - standing, hands on the belt, feet on the outside.

Walking on the outer sides of the feet in place. 30 times. *Concentrate on the knee joints, strive to consciously correct the x-shape of the legs.

24). "Sit Turkish" Starting position - sitting on the floor, you can put a dense flat pillow, cross your legs in Turkish.

1 - Put the right foot on top of the left, turning the right foot with the plantar part up. Put the right hand on the right knee, and the left hand on the right foot. 2 - Straighten your back, and stretch the top of your head up, stretching your spine. Sit like this for a while (a few seconds), enjoying the pleasant sensations in the spine. 3, 4 - Do the same with the left leg on top. * So you can sit, for example, while watching TV. Get up from this position, cross-legged and leaning on the outer sides of the feet.

Big leg circles.

Readers often ask about the basic exercises in order to keep the set of exercises as short as possible.
I will highlight exercises #6, 21 and 23. It is impossible to shorten the remedial gymnastics if you want to achieve a good result. Each exercise has its own role. It will be easier if you memorize a set of exercises with X-shaped legs by heart, then the time to complete it will be slightly reduced.

There are different opinions about wearing orthopedic insoles for flat feet and x-shaped legs. I recommend that you trust only your attending physician - an orthopedist, who examined you and has a complete picture of your body, knows the cause of the curvature of the legs, individual characteristics, heredity, and so on. Tell your doctor all your doubts. Treatment of leg defects should be strictly individual for each patient. This applies to massage, and to therapeutic exercises, and to the selection of orthopedic devices. Massage you will do in courses, and therapeutic exercises for x-shaped curvature of the legs you need every day. Moreover, you need to accustom yourself to control your posture, gait and positioning of your legs and feet at the level of automatism all the time; exercises for x-shaped curvature of the legs. Gradually, experience and a positive result will appear.
And it remains for me to wish you determination, optimism and good health.

Often, babies who have barely reached 2 years old are diagnosed with x-shaped legs. Even 25-35 years ago, such a problem was not so acute, either due to its absence as such, or due to the fact that infants were not sent for a systematic examination by an orthopedist. Often, many mothers suddenly find out that their child has one or another deformity of the lower extremities. What can be done about this and how to fix x-shaped legs in a child?

Normal is the shape of the lower extremities, in which you can draw an imaginary straight line passing from the head of the femur of the hip joint through the middle of the patella and the gap between the first and second toes of the foot. Deviation in one direction or another is considered anomalous. It could be:

  1. Valgus deformity implies that the legs, brought together at the knees, in the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe feet have a distance of more than 5 cm, that is, it is an x-shape. If we consider the legs completely, their silhouette resembles an hourglass or the letter X.
  2. Varus deformity is an O-shaped curvature of the legs. In this case, the pathology affects the middle part of the lower leg, which deviates outward, and the knee joints cannot be connected to each other. As a result, the knees develop unevenly. There is a compression of the meniscus and expansion of the joint space from the inside and outside.

These pathologies can be:

  • congenital;
  • acquired;
  • physiological.

Immediately after birth, children most often have an O-shaped deformity of the legs. Further, as they grow, the legs gradually align. However, during the beginning of walking, excess weight, lack of developed muscles and other factors can lead to the appearance of one form or another of the curvature of the legs. The most common age for the development of the disease in a child is 2-4 years.

If the problem was not resolved in time, in adulthood, the constant incorrect distribution of the load on the knees and ankle provokes the curvature of these joints and the development of knee gonarthrosis, which is a deforming non-inflammatory arthrosis. All this significantly worsens the quality of human life. Moreover, women are more prone to these diseases.

Initial changes in hallux valgus begin in the knee joints - the internal condyles grow faster than the external ones, and the joint space is narrow outside and wide inside. As a result, the ligaments that provide knee stability are overstretched on the inside. Such a deformation of the legs in profile is noticeable by bending at the knees.

The development of the process does not end there, as early as a year old, the baby may experience a flat-valgus change in the feet, that is, flat feet with the heels deviating outward. Then an unsteady gait develops, the baby often stumbles and falls, and also complains of tired legs. Without treatment, curvature of the spine gradually develops.

Reasons include the following:

  1. Early onset of walking. The baby, who is just starting to stand on his feet, gradually trains his muscles. Crawling also plays an important role here, which helps in their formation and strengthening of the ligaments. If the baby missed this phase of development, the load may be excessive, so the weak legs are bent. Orthopedists emphasize the negative role of children's jumpers and walkers, which are designed to relieve the load from the legs of infants. However, there is no load - no training.
  2. Big weight. Breastfed babies often have a body weight that is higher than the average. However, depriving them of food will not work, the only option is to reduce the fat content of the diet of the woman herself. You can adjust the nutrition of children on artificial feeding or on complementary foods. For weight loss, vegetable purees are recommended, rather than cereal cereals.
  3. Congenital weakness of the musculoskeletal system. To some extent, heredity may play a role. If children have an asthenic body type, they are characterized by thinness and underdeveloped muscles. Another problem is any disease that causes this pathology.
  4. Diseases associated with disorders of calcium metabolism, which provoke a decrease in bone strength. It could be kidney disease or rickets.
  5. hereditary predisposition. If one of the parents has X-legs, it is likely that the baby after birth will have a similar deviation. However, the vast majority of newborns have an O-shaped curvature.
  6. Congenital anomalies of development - dysplasia of one or both hip joints, hip dislocation, underdevelopment of the knee joints, and others. Subsequently, unilateral deformity of the lower leg may also develop here.
  7. Intra-articular fractures and injuries.
  8. Benign and malignant tumors of bone and cartilage tissue of the lower extremities.

According to statistics, due to the anatomical structure of the pelvic bones, girls often have X legs, and boys have O-shaped legs.

By the way, the doctor can diagnose a false x-shaped deformity of the legs. Unlike the true one, an external defect is observed due to the location of the muscles and body fat, and treatment is not required.

If a baby at 2 years old quickly gets tired on a walk, does not want to walk with legs, has an unsteady gait and often falls out of the blue, it is worth seeing an orthopedist and undergoing appropriate treatment. In principle, parents themselves can see that when the knees touch, the child's ankles do not close. You can measure the distance between the feet of 4-5 cm using a ruler.

Postponing a visit to the doctor and thinking that everything will go away on its own is not worth it, since the development of the process can affect not only the ligaments of the knees, but also the ankle joints, and even the spine. After an external examination and measurements, the orthopedist will ask the baby to walk barefoot on the floor. In this case, it will become clear whether there is a flat-valgus installation of the feet. The presence of flat-valgus changes in the feet is clearly seen on plantography. This may be a visual, ink or computer model of the study. In the latter option, the plantar part of the feet is scanned at rest and under conditions of functional load. The computer will calculate the morphological parameters and give a report on what type of flat feet is observed - longitudinal, transverse or mixed.

For diagnosis, radiography of the knee joints is used. The picture can be used to judge the unevenness of the joint space. In addition, X-shaped legs in children have more developed internal condyles, and external ones have a bevel. If the valgus curvature is inherited, the X-ray will show blurry edges of the ossified parts of the external condyles.

After the diagnosis is made, the correction of the pathology comes to the fore. Children up to 3-4 years old are well suited for massage, physiotherapy and physiotherapy exercises. The older the child, the more pronounced the consequences - uneven gait, fatigue of the legs, pain in the feet, poor posture and curvature of the spine. In the future, an adult may experience changes in the bones of the chest and pelvis, as well as dysfunction of some organs.

X-shaped legs in a child up to one and a half years old are the physiological norm. This requires systematic observation by an orthopedist. Not to be missed initial stage illness. by the most in a simple way correction is considered massotherapy. Give preference only to experienced massage therapists, otherwise the procedure may not be beneficial, but harmful. Usually a course of 12-15 sessions is carried out, followed by a break for 2 months and a repeat. During the year, massage in combination with physiotherapy is carried out on average 4 times. This type of massage involves strengthening the muscles on the inside of the lower leg and relaxing the overstressed external ligaments. The procedure affects the buttocks, back, feet, front and back of the lower extremities. It is important that the movements of the massage therapist bring joy to the baby, not pain, otherwise he will not relax.

As prescribed by the doctor, the child can be referred for warming procedures using paraffin and electrophoresis with calcium chloride. It is very important to wear specially ordered orthopedic shoes with a high rigid back and hard insoles that fight flat feet. Such shoes or boots help to form the correct setting of the foot and the normal inclination of the body. Usually, doctors advise wearing such shoes at home and on the street with a break for sleep and gymnastics.

If conservative methods fail, plaster casts, articulated orthoses, or removable splints are recommended. The period of their application ranges from 3 weeks to several months. Hyperactive children and babies with neurological abnormalities are not suitable for this type of therapy.

In severe cases, surgery is recommended. If only one leg is affected, the Ilizarov apparatus can be used for correction with simultaneous varus osteotomy of the tibia. This is especially true after suffering injuries and leg fractures. The term of correction can take from 2 months to a year. The postoperative recovery phase consists of massage, exercise therapy and physiotherapy. In the future, gymnastics is carried out to strengthen the muscular-ligamentous apparatus and fully restore the range of motion.

Treatment of hallux valgus is a very lengthy process, sometimes it requires many years of effort and perseverance from children and parents. Among other things, it is supposed to correct the baby's lifestyle:

  1. Make sure that the child does not stand with his legs wide apart, as this position increases the deviation of the knee joints inward. A more advantageous position is with tightly closed legs.
  2. Children with X-shaped legs need frequent rest during active games or for a walk. It is not for nothing that children in kindergarten are often put on a bench "as a punishment for disobedience."
  3. It is advisable to attend specialized sports clubs, dances, go swimming or enroll the child in an orthopedic nursery. preschool where they will conduct daily physiotherapy exercises and massage courses.

At home, it is advisable to do a simple set of exercises every day:

  1. To correct the valgus curvature of the legs in children, walking on the board in the spirit of “there is a goby swinging ...” is excellent. Another time, you can play circus and walk on a rope laid on the floor, like a real tightrope walker.
  2. Squats with knees apart and cycling help develop the right muscle groups.
  3. Play the game "bear clubfoot walks through the forest." Spread toys on the carpet, and then walk on the outside of the foot and collect items.
  4. Turkish sitting can be varied with various additional games. Roll a ball to each other, sitting in this position, or portray an oriental fakir conjuring snakes.
  5. It is useful if at home there is an opportunity to build a Swedish wall, a ladder, a trapezoid and hang a rope. In addition to reducing excess weight, physical activity will strengthen the muscles and ligaments of the legs, knees and feet.
  6. Let the child walk barefoot on sand, grass and pebbles during the summer holidays. These exercises help treat flat feet.

A 1.5-2 year old baby is more receptive to the treatment of X-shaped legs, subject to a persistent and patient approach to the procedures. In the vast majority, getting rid of pathology takes from 2 to 7 years, but you still should not give up. Valgus curvature of the lower extremities is not a cosmetic defect. Subsequently, it can provoke a whole range of skeletal disorders, including the development of arthrosis of the knees and feet. Proper Exercises, the balance of active play and rest, wearing orthopedic shoes and systematic monitoring by an orthopedist will protect the child from unpleasant consequences at an older age.

X-shaped legs in children

X-shaped legs in children are considered a pathology, which is characterized by deformation of the legs in any position, especially the change is noticeable in a standing position. If the legs are straightened and brought together, the distance between the heels can reach five centimeters or more.

It happens that a defect is acquired by a person during life, pathology can also be congenital.

Young mothers must remember that the skeleton of a child is formed up to two years, during this period the legs take on a different shape. It is especially important to follow the first steps of the baby. The movements are unstable, often the legs take the shape of the letter O or X. When the child becomes confident on the legs, the defect disappears on its own, without requiring treatment. If by the age of two the X-shaped form has become pronounced, it is imperative to consult a doctor for help. An experienced doctor will prescribe a treatment that eliminates the defect by the age of 5. It happens that the curvature is expressed on the one hand, this indicates the possibility of a hereditary factor affecting the health of the child.

The cause is heredity or other factors. Parents are obliged to show attention to the child, avoiding the further spread of the disease. Close attention is required when the baby begins to move independently. Deformation is able to begin to develop, the reasons are hidden in:

  1. Strong load on the lower limbs, in such a case, for the purpose of prevention, parents should ensure that the child temporarily moves with support. It is possible to use a walker, wait for the final strengthening of the legs.
  2. The reason is improperly selected shoes, you need to carefully choose shoes for the baby, shoes, shoes should not crush.
  3. For selected children young age characterized by being overweight. To prevent this, you need to make the right diet for the baby, try to make the child's lifestyle mobile.
  4. The help of a doctor is required when the child lacks calcium and vitamin D. In the cases mentioned, there is no strength in the legs, the limbs take on an X-shaped form.

You will need to contact the doctor for help, increasing the chances of the child to get back on his feet normally and lead a normal life.

First of all, parents should remember: x-shaped legs will not align on their own, you will definitely have to make an appointment with an orthopedist, the doctor will help to avoid a defect in the future. After the doctor conducts a complete examination, making an accurate diagnosis, the children are prescribed individual treatment.

Treatment and recovery take a lot of time, sometimes treatment takes more than a year. Remember, the sooner help is provided, the sooner the child will get back on his feet.

Massage is often used as the main method of treatment. The session lasts at least 25 minutes during the month, not only the muscles of the legs are massaged, the massage starts from the back and ends with the feet. For such procedures, they turn to a professional, the further state of the child's health depends on the actions of the parents. Procedures are performed according to the recommendations:

  1. It is shown to start the massage from the back, the child needs to be placed on the stomach, arms straightened along the body. Massage begins with warming up the body, it is enough to lightly stroke the skin and muscles, rub and slightly knead, then proceed to circular massaging, ending with a repetition of strokes.
  2. Then the massage of the lumbosacral region begins. The body of the child is not fully formed, all movements are provided as accurate as possible.

It is important to remember that X-shaped legs are treated additionally with the right shoes. Today, distinctive orthopedic shoes are produced that allow for the prevention of X-shaped legs, preventing the development of flat feet. As a rule, such shoes for children are produced with high heels and comfortable insoles.

A balanced diet is recognized as an important factor in treatment, if the child is malnourished, the growing body does not accumulate the necessary vitamins to strengthen the bones, the work done will be useless. Food necessarily includes calcium, which is included in dairy products, eggs and fish, phosphorus, which is found in legumes. Sunbathing is required to strengthen the body.

Treatment requires a lot of time and effort, it is not necessary to conduct therapeutic exercises for children in the gym, it is permissible to perform at home. Useful movement hold in game form so that the baby does not soon get tired of exercising. For many children, pedaling on a bicycle is considered a favorite activity. If parents bought a children's bike, be sure to take it for a walk in the park. Constantly performing cycling exercises, the muscles of the legs will begin to grow stronger.

Swimming is considered an excellent tool for aligning X-shaped legs, when the child is offered to swim like a frog.

To strengthen the legs, a set of exercises has been developed to help restore muscles and ligaments:

  1. Exercises related to different types of walking. For example, the "bear" is considered a favorite exercise for children.

These exercises are aimed at strengthening the muscles and ligaments of the child. If the muscles are strengthened, it will be possible to get rid of crooked legs faster, the child will begin to move freely without experiencing discomfort.

Prevention and treatment of crooked legs necessarily takes place in the complex. To prevent the disease from developing, it is required to provide the child proper nutrition, it is important to start performing the exercises described in the article in advance. If the curvature of the legs is minimal, it is imperative to track the defect, it is better to immediately contact an orthopedist.

Some parents make a big mistake by stimulating a child to go from an early age. This is dangerous, the bones of a little man have not yet formed, a large load on them leads to curvature. Doctors advise once a month to apply coniferous-salt baths. To make the child sleep well, a little chamomile is added.

You should be careful when choosing clothes for a small child, avoid tight, restricting movement. The same applies to shoes. As a preventive measure, it is advisable to allow the child to walk more barefoot, on grass or sand. If the parents with the baby decided to go to the sea, try to have the baby knead the legs with sea pebbles, walk on the pebbles. Remember, quality treatment depends solely on the parents, the little man is not able to be responsible for his own actions, the responsibility for the health of the baby rests with the parents.

As soon as the baby begins to walk, parents should pay attention to his posture and gait, since it is at this time that the prevention of scoliosis and flat feet should begin. Often, young children walk with their knees together, which should not be too disturbing, but if after a few months the gait has not improved, then a visit to the doctor is simply necessary.

The baby should be placed evenly and asked to connect the legs together. If the knees converge, and the legs diverge towards the bottom - between the ankles 5 cm or more, then we can judge the presence of hallux valgus deformity. The problem can be corrected, but parents will need to closely engage in treatment.

The following are the main causes of hallux valgus, or, simply put, why the rebec has X legs.

  • Rickets is a lack of vitamin D, which causes disorders in the growth and development of bones, followed by their curvature. Often, calcium enters the body in the right amount, but is not fully absorbed without the effects of vitamin D. Then the bones begin to soften, and the muscular system also weakens.
  • Excess weight is an additional load on a fragile musculoskeletal system.
  • Insufficient development of the femoral head or its dislocation, which happens during childbirth.
  • Early standing and walking with holding on to the handles, when the child is not yet ready to take the first steps on his own.
  • Genetic predisposition - the hereditary shape of the legs.
  • Frequent planting of the baby in jumpers or walkers for a long time.
  • Incorrectly selected shoes, due to which a certain gait is formed and the curvature of the legs appears. For a child, starting from the 1st year of life, it is necessary to purchase new (but not wear out for siblings) shoes with an elastic hard back, a wide small heel and in size.
  • Smoking and drinking alcohol during pregnancy provokes not only joint dysplasia, but also other pathologies.

In addition to a not very aesthetic gait, the X-shaped curvature of the legs provokes problems with the spine, as well as pain in the limbs, fatigue, lack of mobility, pathological changes in the joints, and flat feet.

Both legs will not necessarily be X in a child, only one limb can be deformed, then the body deviates from the vertical position to the side and the baby has scoliosis.

Treatment methods for hallux valgus

The main question that parents ask if a child has X legs is how to correct this condition. In addition to visiting the orthopedic doctor (or until you choose the time for this visit), the following methods can be applied:

  1. Taking vitamin D. It is advisable to start giving it to a child in the first year of life, which will prevent rickets.
  2. Purchasing orthopedic shoes that will firmly hold the foot in the correct position and will not lead to the formation of x-shaped legs.
  3. Massage - a course once every three months. The specialist massages not only the child's legs, but also the gluteal and dorsal muscles, which strengthens the entire musculoskeletal system. It is desirable that parents also master the techniques of massage and conduct it at home.
  4. Physiotherapy. Electrical stimulation - the impact on the muscles of the legs through long-term pulses of electric current. The procedure helps to improve blood circulation, stimulates the work of muscles and their motor activity.
  5. Stay in the sun. The rays of the sun supply vitamin D to the child's body.
  6. Exercise therapy - exercises are useful for every child.

Physical culture and sports:

A small child is active in itself, so parents only need to encourage him to play outdoor games with friends, jump and run.

  • For home use, you should purchase a sports corner with a rope, wall bars, bars, and other accessories, as well as a large ball.
  • Riding a bicycle will provide the ligaments with the necessary load, from which the curvature of the legs will gradually level out.
  • Pool - at least three times a week. The instructor must teach the child to swim like a frog.

If “X-legs” in a child at 3 years old

If the valgus deformity of the leg in a child does not improve by the age of three, despite active treatment, then plaster bandages are applied, which will help:

  • stretch the lateral ligaments of the knee joints;
  • straighten your legs and reduce pressure on the bone tissue;
  • minimize pressure on the tibia of the femur, which will allow the knee to form correctly.

Wearing a cast can be delayed for a long time, perhaps even for several years, depending on the degree of curvature.

If you do not treat hallux valgus while the child is small, then after 10 years it will be difficult to correct the situation, but possible. In severe cases, surgical intervention is indicated.

Prevention of the X-shaped curvature of the child's legs begins even in the womb, therefore, during pregnancy, proper nutrition and long walks in the fresh air are so important. Besides, breast-feeding preferably for children under one year old, but subject to good nutrition of the woman.

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How to cure an x-shaped curvature of the legs in a child

Legs with an x-shaped curvature is a fairly common pathology in children of the first year of life and older. And contrary to the popular belief that crooked legs are heredity, most often this phenomenon is still acquired, so it is necessary to take timely measures to correct this problem.

Usually, the curvature of the legs in a child is noticed when he begins to walk. To facilitate standing and walking, the baby spreads the legs too wide, while bringing the knees together. And if this happens too early, when the ligamentous-muscular apparatus is not yet well formed and not ready for walking, then the knee may lose its stability, because the main load falls on the knee joint.

How to determine the x-shaped curvature of the legs in a child?

To check your child's legs for curvature, you need to stand him upright and put his legs together. If the knees and ankles do not converge, or rather, the distance between the inner ankles with the knees pressed against each other is 4-5 cm, we can talk about an x-shaped deformity of the legs, which is also called hallux valgus. The legs with 3 gaps are considered ideal when closing the ankles, shins and knees.

Causes of leg deformity in a child

The main cause of curvature of the legs in a baby is most often a disease such as rickets, which develops as a result of a deficiency in the intake of vitamin D. It is because of rickets that bone growth is disturbed and their subsequent curvature occurs. Even with sufficient intake of foods containing calcium, without vitamin D, the body does not absorb them. As a result, in the future, the bones soften, the muscles weaken and cannot normally support the bone corset.

Also, the curvature of the child's legs is due to congenital underdevelopment of the femoral head, or its dislocation during childbirth, trauma to the knee joints, early attempts to put the child on his feet and the urge to walk, excessive planting of the baby in walkers and jumpers. A significant role is also played by the presence of excess weight in a child, which lies like a burden on fragile children's legs.

You should not treat this problem as purely cosmetic, because it will not fix itself. In addition to the curvature of the legs, problems with the setting of the foot may begin in the future. After all, the stronger the deformation of the legs, the stronger the pressure on the lower leg and ankle joints. And the wrong setting of the legs provokes a curvature of the spine, which is fraught with problems for life. Therefore, the correction of this pathology must be addressed as soon as possible, while it is still possible to correct.

Best results are achieved if treatment is started before the age of 3, while the child's bones are still growing and body structure is changing. Up to 5-7 years, it is still possible to fix the problem. But in adolescence, when the skeletal formation is already completed, it will be too late to act.

How to cure x-shaped legs in a child?

Solving the problem requires an integrated approach. It is necessary to start active treatment as soon as the child has a disease, because, as mentioned above, the younger the child, the more elastic its tissues and it will be easier to correct the pathology. To eradicate the problem usually begins with the fight against rickets. Children under 3 years of age, after tests confirming a deficiency of vitamin D in the body, are prescribed an aqueous or oily solution of vitamin D, which will have to be used in an increased dosage (the number of drops can only be prescribed by a doctor).

What can parents do? Firstly, you need to carefully monitor the nutrition of the baby, since excess weight affects physical development. Choose the right diet for your child, rich in calcium and vitamins, depending on the age of the child. Make sure that your child walks in anatomically correct shoes (with a high, moderately hard back, fixing the heel, a small heel, pressed through by the foot with an arch support). If the problem with the legs is very pronounced, the orthopedist may prescribe special orthopedic shoes or corrective insoles.

Try to get your child to avoid standing for long periods of time, especially if their legs are wide apart. It is harmful to stand like this, because it increases the deviation of the knees inward, and the feet outward. Make sure that the child stands more with closed legs when the weight of the body passes through the middle of the knee joint to the outer edge of the foot, whose purpose is to bear the entire weight of the body. Avoid jumping on any soft surface - trampolines, furniture, ball pool.

It is very useful to practice on the Swedish wall, ladder, swim and ride a bike or balance bike. Skates, scooters, roller skates are not recommended. It will be useful to seat the baby on a chair in such a way that its back is in front of the child, and the legs are spread wide apart. This pose perfectly strengthens the muscles of the legs. In the summer, walk your child barefoot more often on grass, pebbles, sand, orthopedic massage mats, and any uneven surface. It will not be superfluous to do a little gymnastics with the child (read below about exercises with an x-shaped curvature of the legs).

The rest must be left to the experts. To eliminate the curvature of the legs, it is necessary to undergo professional therapeutic massage procedures 4-5 times a year, which includes massage of the back, lower back, buttocks and legs. However, you can carry out a simple restorative massage for your child on your own. If the orthopedist simultaneously puts the child in flat-valgus deformity of the feet and x-shaped legs, physiotherapy is usually prescribed, namely electrical stimulation. Physiotherapy improves blood circulation, stimulates muscle contraction and improves motor abilities.

Massage with x-shaped legs in a child

The correct functioning of the knee and ankle joints depends on the state in which the muscles surrounding them are located. With the help of massage and specially selected gymnastics, weakened muscles can be tightened, and those in tension can be relaxed. Therapeutic massage is carried out in courses of sessions daily or every other day with a gradual increase in load and intensity. When performing exercises, the child should not have negative emotions, so avoid sudden movements.

For all manipulations, the initial position of the child is lying on his stomach. A roller must be placed under the lower leg. At the beginning and end of the session, conduct a general stroking of the body. Massage starts from top to bottom, so first you need to massage the back of the child.

1. Back massage includes stroking, kneading, rubbing with fingertips, sawing. After each dynamic reception, stroking on the massaged area must be carried out several times.

Lumbar region of the back. stroking from the spine to the sides and down, vigorous rubbing, kneading with elements of pressure and shifting.

Gluto-sacral region of the back. circular strokes, x-shaped strokes, kneading, rubbing with the back surface of the fingers, mild but tonic percussion techniques (light patting, tapping with fingers).

2. Massage the back of the thighs. stroking from the popliteal fossa outwards and upwards, kneading, intensive rubbing, light percussion techniques (patting, chopping)

3. Massage the back of the leg. stroking from the Achilles tendon to the popliteal fossa, kneading all muscle groups, rubbing in turn (the outer surface of the lower leg must be rubbed gently, the inner surface vigorously). Percussion techniques are used on the inner surface of the lower leg, and vibration techniques along with stretching are used on the outer surface.

4. Massage of the knee joint area. stroking the lateral surface of the joint, light rubbing, gentle pressure on the inner surface of the joint. In this case, it is necessary to hold the lower third of the lower leg with one hand, and with the other, slightly press on the internal condyle, as shown in the figure.

5. Massage of the Achilles tendon begins with light strokes and then rubbing with pinching elements.

6. Massage the front of the thighs. the child should lie on his back with a cushion under his knees. First, stroking is carried out, then light kneading and then again stroking from the knee up and out.

7. Massage of the anterior lateral surface of the legs includes light stroking from the feet to the knees and rubbing.

8. Massage of the knee joint: stroking in a circle, rubbing the lateral surface of the knee, slight pressure on the inner condyle and bringing the lower leg, as shown in the figure.

9. Foot massage. stroking the back of the foot from the toes to the ankle joints, rubbing. Around the ankles, stroking and rubbing is also applied, but on the inner edges of the feet it should be done more vigorously.

Gymnastics with x-shaped legs in a child

After the massage session, you must perform special gymnastics. For the legs, exercises should be done every day, slowly increasing the load. For other muscle groups, gymnastics is best done from a sitting position. Also try to play with your child in such games, which would minimize the load on the knee and ankle joints.

Exercises include:

1. Careful rotation of the feet in different directions.

2. Flexion and extension of the ankle joints.

3. Exercise with the legs "bike".

4. Sitting in Turkish and lotus positions (make it a habit to put your child in these positions as often as possible).

5. Rise from the “Turkish” pose: the sitting little one needs to stand up with support on the outer surfaces of the feet. You must help him by taking his hands. Repeating this exercise, change the child's legs so that the other leg is already on top.

6. Lifting straight legs from a lying position on the side as high as possible.

7. Squats with knees out to the sides. Holding the child by the arms or under the armpits, teach him to squat, while spreading his knees to the sides as wide as possible. In this case, the feet should fully rest on the floor and stand parallel.

8. Squats with an object clamped in the knees.

9. Capturing an object with the feet (you can invite the child to grab a toy, ball or any other object with the legs).

10. Walking on the outside of the feet (like a clumsy bear).

11. Tiptoe walking.

12. Walking on the path. Try to teach the child to walk and stand, while placing the feet as close to each other as possible. Walking along a narrow path (it can be drawn with chalk), logs, sidewalks can help with this. Also pay attention to the correct setting of the feet while walking with the baby.

13. Walking on an orthopedic rug with an uneven surface.

14. Walking with an object clamped in the knees (ball, toy).

15. Imitation of riding a horse (you can use the knee of an adult instead of a horse).

If your child is still too young to do this kind of gymnastics on his own, turn the classes into a game. For example, Aladdin from a fairy tale often sat in the lotus position, a clumsy bear walks on the outer arch of the foot, a circus performer or an acrobat can run across a thin path. Use your imagination, do the exercises yourself, and let the baby repeat them after you.

To track the dynamics of the disease, you need to visit your orthopedist every 3 months. Usually, the problem can be dealt with after a year or two of intensive training.

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Parents perceive the first steps of a child as a very joyful family event. But it can be overshadowed by the identification of such an orthopedic pathology as valgus deformity of the feet. This disturbance usually becomes apparent just in time for the start of walking and after some time. Yevgeny Komarovsky, a well-known pediatrician and author of books on children's health, tells about the causes of the problem and what to do in this situation.

Valgus in medicine is such a deformity of the feet, in which they are in a cruciform position with respect to each other, reminiscent of the Latin X. Most often, the pathology becomes noticeable when the child tries to step on the legs and take the first steps - the pathology is expressed in the fact that when walking, the baby rests on the inside of the foot.

It is extremely difficult for such a baby to take steps - he quickly gets tired, sometimes he experiences pain, the steps themselves are shaky and uncertain. Orthopedists describe this condition in terms of the processes occurring in the feet - the toes and heels are turned outward, the middle part of the foot is somewhat lowered. If the legs are straightened and pressed against each other in the knee region, the distance between the bones of the ankles will be more than 3-4 centimeters. If at the same time the height of the arch of the foot is significantly reduced, then orthopedists will already say that the child has flat-valgus feet. Valgus flatfoot is considered the most common diagnosis in pediatric orthopedics.

This curvature of the feet, there are two types: congenital and physiological (acquired). In the first case, the legs are bent even during the period of intrauterine development of the fetus under the influence of certain factors that medicine does not yet know much about. Congenital pathologies of the foot are usually quite severe, and it is possible to see them in the first 2-3 months of the child's independent life.

Acquired deformity is often associated with errors in the development and functioning of the musculoskeletal system, ligaments, tendons. It is these violations that become apparent closer to the age of one. At risk are crumbs with weakened muscles, premature babies suffering from rickets, who have had frequent and severe viral infections in the first year of life. The legs are at risk of bending in obese children, since the load on the lower limbs during overweight quite significant.

Sometimes parents themselves are to blame for the occurrence of pathology. So, putting the baby on his feet too early may well “start” the mechanism of foot deformity, and insufficient load on the foot, walking exclusively on a flat floor can cause acquired flat feet or flat-valgus feet.

Flat feet scare parents no less. However, Komarovsky advises not to panic, because absolutely all children have flat feet from birth, this is a feature of babies. The arch of the foot will form gradually, as the load on the legs grows, and everything is in the hands of the parents, with the exception of congenital flat feet, which can only be corrected surgically.

There are four main degrees of valgus disease according to the severity of the defect and the severity of the course:

  • First degree. The angle of deviation from the norm does not exceed 15 degrees. Pathology lends itself well to correction by conservative methods.
  • Second degree. Deviation angle - no more than 20 degrees. This condition is also successfully treated with exercises, massage and physiotherapy.
  • Third degree. Deviation angle - no more than 30 degrees. The pathology is difficult to correct, the treatment is long, but with due patience and perseverance on the part of parents and doctors, the prognosis is very favorable.
  • Fourth degree. The angle of deviation from normal values ​​is more than 30 degrees. With the ineffectiveness of conservative treatment, a surgical operation is prescribed.

Flat feet also have several degrees, which are similarly classified according to the degree of deviation of the arch of the foot from the norm. As in the case of hallux valgus, the first and second degrees of ordinary flat feet are treated quite simply and quickly enough. The third and fourth will be more difficult.

The diagnosis is made by an orthopedic doctor. This is done on the basis of a visual examination and additional studies assigned, which include radiography of the feet, computer plantography, podometry. If such studies are not prescribed, and the doctor makes an appropriate diagnosis for you, you should consult another doctor. Quite often, young patients with confirmed valgus pathology are advised to visit a neurologist to rule out problems with the peripheral and central nervous systems.

As soon as the causes that underlie the modification of the feet are identified, the doctor will establish the type of lesion by etiology:

  • Static deformation. Such a problem is detected if incorrect posture is involved in the curvature.
  • Structural deformation. Curvature of the feet, which has congenital causes. As a rule, the talus with such a deformity is located incorrectly with a deviation in one direction or another.
  • compensatory deformation. If a child has a shortened Achilles tendon, beveled legs, the foot will deform functionally when walking.
  • corrective deformation. Such a curvature occurs if the child was treated completely incorrectly or was not treated at all with the usual clubfoot.
  • Spastic nerve deformity. The reason for this curvature is the malfunctioning of the cerebral cortex, which often results in spasms of the limbs.
  • paralytic deformity. Usually it is a consequence of encephalitis transferred at an early age or complicated poliomyelitis.
  • Rachitic deformity. Occurs with rickets.
  • Consequences of trauma. Ligament ruptures, fractures of the bones of the foot, ankle, injuries of the hip and hip joint can lead to pathology.

When diagnosing flat feet, the same techniques and research methods are used.

The child's foot is finally formed only by the age of 12, so many problems found by specialists and by the parents themselves at a more tender age can and should be corrected right up to this moment, says Dr. Komarovsky.

Usually, the treatment of both flat feet and valgus curvature is aimed at strengthening the ligamentous apparatus, the muscles of the foot, and forming an arch. For this, foot baths, therapeutic massage, magnetotherapy, electrophoresis, swimming, and physiotherapy exercises are prescribed. In case of congenital pathology, the lower limbs are immobilized with the help of plaster. In the absence of the desired effect of all these measures, the child may be recommended surgical intervention.

X-shaped legs or wheeled legs, although not as common, can be seen in some children under the age of 2-3 years. In any case, it is clear that this is not the norm. Some of the parents take this calmly, thinking that this is temporary and will fix itself, someone immediately sounds the alarm.

To understand how serious the problem is, you need to understand its nature and causes, as well as find out what consequences it is fraught with. After that, it is already possible to decide whether it is worth exposing the child to any procedures and additional loads, or, indeed, there is nothing wrong with crooked legs and over time they will straighten naturally.

This is the scientific name for the deformation of the knee joint, as a result of which the legs of a child of 2 years old do not become straight and even, but acquire the shape of the letter X. Any mother can independently diagnose such a pathology. It is enough to put the baby straight and connecting the heels.

If there are no deviations, then the legs will touch each other at three points: at the knees, mid-calf and ankles. With hallux valgus, the child will not be able to connect the ankles - there will be a gap of 4-5 cm (or even more) between them, while the knees will be tightly closed. If the baby still manages to put the ankles together, then his knees will go behind each other.

There may be several reasons:

  • rickets;
  • congenital deformity of the pelvic ring;
  • flat feet;
  • past trauma;
  • infections;
  • inflammatory process;
  • too early attempts of the baby to move in an upright position.

Rickets is the most common cause of curvature of the legs (and any) in children of the first years of life. It is caused by a lack of vitamin D in the body, so do not think that this disease is a thing of the past. Today it is just as relevant, especially in the autumn-winter period.

The fact is that we get vitamin D directly from sunlight. And if a child is born in autumn or winter, it is not surprising that he is deprived of the most valuable substance. With a lack of vitamin D, the bones become soft and the knee joints are deformed.

Children who tend to get up and walk on their own too early are at risk of forming x-shaped legs. In this case, the rule “the sooner the better” is inappropriate. There is a time for everything, and when the baby starts walking too early (even in a walker), the fragile legs become deformed. If at the same time the child is overweight, the problem is exacerbated.

It is widely believed that curvature of the legs is a purely hereditary disease and therefore not treatable. Yes, with a hereditary predisposition, it is very difficult to correct the curvature of the legs and most often it is possible only by surgery. But such a cause is rare, and most cases still do not have a hereditary factor.

The various diseases listed in the list are also individual and single. These are the least likely causes of curvature of the legs in children.

Not all parents are wondering what complications the x-shaped legs of a child are fraught with. And if it is also a boy, many believe that, unlike a girl, beauty is not necessary for him. However, if you look, the matter turns out to be much more serious than an unaesthetic appearance.

With hallux valgus, the load is incorrectly distributed to all joints of the lower extremities. This leads to the occurrence of flat-valgus deformity of the feet, when the correct setting of the foot is also violated. In the future - curvature of the spine and other diseases of the musculoskeletal system.

Moreover, pain in the legs will make itself felt not in old age, but much earlier - already in senior school age. Therefore, the question of whether any action should be taken becomes irrelevant. We need it, and as soon as possible!

Early age is a definite advantage. The younger the child, the easier it will be to correct the situation. While the body is only being formed, it is easier to help it.

An adult person has to rely only on surgical intervention. Surgery is rarely prescribed for children, in those extreme cases when complex treatment does not work and when the child has reached the age of 7 years.

You can fix the situation, but you will have to make an effort. The timing of treatment plays an important role. As we have said, if you deal with the problem before 3 years, when the child’s bones are just being formed, the chances of success are greatest. 7 years is the last age when you can still bring the legs back to normal by conservative methods.

Treatment for hallux valgus should be comprehensive and versatile. Parents first of all need to contact a doctor who will give a referral for an examination. Based on the results of the tests, the doctor prescribes a solution of vitamin D (water or oil). When the disease is already developing, an increased dosage is prescribed.

In addition to the drug taken orally, plaster casts on the knee joints are used up to 2.5-3 years. The essence of this method is to reduce the load on the bones, which will grow faster, and gradually the legs will align. In the case of using plaster casts, you should tune in to the duration of treatment - at least 1.5-2 years.

A good aid is orthopedic shoes. It clearly fixes the foot and ankle joint, thus ensuring the correct position of the foot.

An appointment for massage and physiotherapy is made, recommendations are given on special physical exercises and diet, as well as tips on what parents can additionally do at home. After all, in order to fight the disease, you even have to change your lifestyle.

It is recommended to take it for 4 or more courses a year and trust only a specialist, since we are talking about treatment, not prevention. However, there are techniques that parents can learn on their own and do in addition to therapeutic massage.

The main task is to strengthen the muscles of the thighs and lower legs from the inside, and relax the muscles from the outside. In addition, you also need to work on the muscles of the back, lower back and buttocks.

The first sessions should last minutes. Gradually, the duration can be increased to 30 minutes, but no more.

The main technique is stroking:

  • lower back - from the spine to the sides and down;
  • buttocks - in a circular motion;
  • the back of the thighs - from the popliteal fossa outward and upward;
  • back surface of the lower leg - from the ankle joint to the popliteal fossa;
  • patella - round;
  • anterior lateral surface of the lower leg - from the feet to the knees;
  • stop - on the back side from the fingers to the ankle joint.

Light pats, kneading, rubbing, tingling are also allowed.

It is desirable to perform exercises after the massage, but if you return to them several times during the day, the benefits will be obvious. To correct irregular shape the legs of the child will be helped by exercises in which the load on the outer edge of the foot increases, and on the knee and ankle joints it decreases.

So that the baby does not refuse therapeutic exercises, you can interest him by turning classes into a game:

  1. "Turkish Sultan" This is an ordinary “lotus” pose or its simplified version - spreading the knees and connecting the feet.
  2. "Crow's feet". Simultaneous or alternate flexion and extension of the ankle joints.
  3. "A bike". A well-known exercise when, lying on your back, you need to rotate your legs, simulating cycling.
  4. "Clumsy Bear". Walk, waddling, with a preponderance on the outer side of the feet.
  5. "Monkey". With the help of the toes, you need to grab some objects. If you perform the exercise while sitting on the floor, you can do grabs with two feet.
  6. "Heron". Tiptoe walking.
  7. "Circus Acrobat" You need to walk straight along a narrow path, a curb or just a drawn line. The main thing is that at the same time the child puts his feet as close to each other as possible.
  8. "Horse". If the child does not have a toy horse on which he can ride and swing, you can imitate riding, for example, on an adult's knee.

Even if you devote a little time to the exercises, in combination with other types of treatment, they will give a good result. And the game moment will give the child a lot of pleasure and make you want to return to fun activities again and again.

Electrical stimulation is prescribed when valgus deformity of the knee joints is complicated by planovalgus deformity of the feet. Electrical impulses of different duration stimulate the motor activity of the muscles and improve blood circulation in the lower extremities. Muscle contraction alternates with small pauses during which the muscles relax.

This type of treatment is contraindicated if the child has open wounds or colds.

It should be noted that the diet of the child should be given great attention in any case, since nutrition is the basis of health. If the curvature of the legs is already observed, then it is necessary to draw up a special diet.

The most important elements for proper bone formation are calcium and phosphorus. It is their lack that leads to deformation of bones and joints.

Calcium is found in all natural dairy products, eggs and fish. Phosphorus - in meat food, milk, nuts and legumes. And vitamin D, about which we have already written so much above, just helps to assimilate these two useful substances.

It is necessary to ensure that the baby's diet is enriched with calcium and phosphorus. All of the listed products should be present in the children's menu every day. And so that the child does not get bored with monotonous food, you can make many variations. For example, add honey, berries or dried fruits to kefir and cottage cheese, and take turns using different ways cooking (stewing, baking, steaming, boiling).

Experts say that up to 2 years, a slight curvature of the legs is observed in many children and is not a pathology. However, even if the child's legs are even, it's a good idea to think about prevention, which at the same time will strengthen the whole body.

In addition to a balanced diet, it is necessary to ensure that the weight of the baby is normal. Extra pounds can cause not only problems with the musculoskeletal system, but also have a bad effect on overall development.

When a child begins to walk, you need to take care of good shoes. The heel should be high and sufficiently rigid, fixing the foot, a slight elevation is required on the insole to prevent flat feet.

It will not be useful for a child to stand motionless for a long time, especially with legs wide apart. But to move actively - on the contrary. Wall bars, running, jumping, cycling and especially swimming are the only sports that harmoniously develop all muscle groups and normalize the work of all internal organs.

It is better to beware of skates, roller skates and jumping on trampolines and other soft surfaces. Such types of physical activity are not very useful. But you can walk barefoot on grass, pebbles, a massage mat and any other uneven surface as much as you like.

And of course, sunbathing is good for saturating the body with vitamin D. Starting from 15 minutes a day and gradually increasing the time, avoiding drafts and overheating, in the spring you can accustom your child to the sun. Such prevention will be not only useful for physiology, but also guarantees the baby a lot of positive emotions.

Good day to all! Perhaps my comment will be useful to someone. My daughter was diagnosed at 1.7, she consulted a couple of good orthopedists and the recommendations for treating such a diagnosis are similar: exercise therapy, massage, cycling, etc. The spectacle was deplorable: the distance was about 15 cm, the gait was like on stilts, the unnatural bend of the leg when walking, the heel was displaced. Moreover, if all the recommendations are followed, then it is possible that by the age of 9-10 the legs will straighten out. At this age, a child cannot be forced to do gymnastics, but in a playful way it stretches for a whole day, and it must be done every day. In our frantic pace, it is difficult to meet all the requirements. The article correctly states that up to three years it is very easy to correct the situation!! From this I repulsed. Every day, the child herself did a foot massage before going to bed for 10 minutes. On YouTube you can find videos on how to do this or, as an option, with a massage therapist (which I did, basic exercises taken from the course). In a nutshell, after basic manipulations with the legs, I “warmed up” the leg bone and patella with rubbing movements, so to speak, held the leg on the inside of the knee and pulled the shin straight with the other hand (a slight tension should be felt), hold for 3-4 seconds so 5-6 times. A month later, the gait has changed markedly. Now my daughter is 2.3 and her legs are almost straight, I still continue to massage, but when she sleeps, right after she falls asleep (I only do “stretching”, so to speak). It is necessary to exclude everything that puts a load on the knee joint: scooters, cars on which you need to push off with your legs, skates, skis ... And in a playful way, I ask the child to reach the spout with the tips of his toes. And in the first months, the child ran at home every day on toes during the day, also in a playful way, so there is less load on the heel. Plus, medical orthopedic shoes.

Love, thank you, take note! My girl is 2 years old, she recently noticed that her legs are X. The distance is not very large, but since I noticed I need to act.

Love, thank you!! My son is 2 years old, he has X legs, we love to jump on the trampoline and on the bed, but this, it turns out, is impossible! Today we are already sleeping, and tomorrow I will start doing such a massage!

Hello good people. I am a pediatric massage and exercise nurse. The highest category. Every 5 years I go through an improvement in my specialty on the basis of the Advanced Training School in Moscow (Konkovo ​​metro station).

The roller does not correspond to the correct treatment of the flat-valgus foot and the x-shaped position of the n / limbs. Depending on age, massage should be general or local with an emphasis on the soles of the feet, the anterior-inner surface of the legs. On these areas, all massage techniques (stroking, rubbing, kneading, intermittent vibration) are performed more intensively. We massage the lateral (external) muscle group very gently, gently, improving only the trophism, without increasing the tone. Massage of the back surface of the muscles-stimulating. Thigh massage is stimulating, the same strength from all sides.

And this video shows completely opposite, worsening the correct installation of the feet. Sorry.

Thank you for your comment! The opinion of such a specialist is very important to us. Let's find another video! Corresponding to your remark!

The topic is fully covered. Thanks to the author. Please show me proper shoes for babies. Our teacher advised the child to put on shoes from the moment, as soon as the child began to crawl and sit down on his own! Because at any moment he will crawl to the sofa and try to get on his feet. And at this moment, the correct installation of the feet and the entire lower limb is required. Forgive me, personally, when working with children, I recommend parents to buy children's shoes "Kotofey", "first step". They correspond to the recommendation that is present in the text. Genuine leather, high solid back, heel, metal fastener, so that the baby could not unfasten and take off his shoes. For the summer, the material is also natural dzhinsovka, velveteen. The main thing is that the foot fits snugly in the shoe. Peace to you. God bless all children.

True X-shaped curvature (valgus deformity) is manifested by the presence of a distance between the feet with tightly closed knees in a free stance.

Classification of the shape of the legs (Artemyev A.A., 2001):

  1. Perfect legs;
  2. True O-shaped curvature (varus deformity);
  3. false curvature;
  4. True X-shaped curvature (valgus deformity);

Below is a video on how to fix crooked legs

This classification allows you to independently determine the shape of the legs and decide on the correction of curvature.

The "ideal" shape of the legs involves the closing of the knees, calves and feet and the presence of three gaps between them.

True X-shaped curvature is manifested by the presence of distance between the feet with tightly closed knees in a free stance. It can be conditionally considered that the deviation of the axis by 10-15° is a cosmetic problem, more than 15° - orthopedic. With a pronounced curvature, we are already talking about hallux valgus.

The shape of the legs is an ethnic sign. X-shaped curvature of the legs is more common in residents of European countries. For surgical correction, the owners of such legs turn about 10-15 times less often than about the O-shaped curvature of the legs.
It is difficult to say how often among all people there are X-foot, but men resort to the services of surgeons about 2-3 times more often than women.

An interesting observation is noteworthy: in trousers, legs with a slight hallux valgus seem straight. Straight legs, especially for thin people, in trousers seem a bit like a wheel. With severe hallux valgus, X-shaped legs, on the contrary, are not only very noticeable in trousers, but even make it difficult to wear clothes. A very common reason for seeking surgical care, especially for men, is problems in choosing model clothes.

Valgus deformity with in-depth examination is accompanied by underdevelopment of the condyles of the femur or lower leg, as well as flat feet. With age, these features can lead to the development and progression of various pathological conditions, therefore, they require the earliest possible correction.

You can be sure that we will make perfect legs in almost any case (see photo...). The point is how long this process will take. We offer three ways to correct leg varus deformity:

  • Ilizarov correction (see details below);
  • Express method;
  • Improved express method.

If you think you have a false curvature - look here.

The principle of surgical treatment is the same as for the correction of O-shaped legs - only the direction of displacement is exactly the opposite.

Appearance of a 38-year-old man with severe hallux valgus before and after correction

In the process of correction in the interests of improving the appearance, you can lengthen the legs.

Appearance and radiographs of a 56-year-old man with X-shaped legs before treatment and after correction (correction of the shape of the legs + lengthening of 4 cm).

Surgical correction of the lower leg is technically simpler and has much fewer complications than hip surgery. However, with severe valgus deformity, it is necessary to correct the nominal segment that is curved.

Radiographs of a man with post-traumatic valgus deformity of the right femur before surgery, during correction with the Ilizarov apparatus and after treatment

Considering that the principle of correction of the X-shaped curvature of the legs is the same as for the O-shaped curvature, the main features of the operation and postoperative management, as well as the cost of treatment, are the same in the treatment of both types of deformity.

At the decision-making stage and during the correction process, additional questions often arise. The answers to them are on a separate page. Here you can find out what examination you need to undergo before the operation, how to take a photo for a remote consultation and much more.

If you want to study the problem in more detail, we recommend that you refer to this book:

If you are interested in the problem under consideration, and you want to get additional information or professional advice, call 8-909-641-36-41

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