Children playing together in a Melbourne park
Open Mon–Sat

Bow Legs Treatment in Melbourne

Professional assessment and treatment for bow legs in children - accurate diagnosis and clear next steps.

Open Mon–SatHICAPS AvailableAHPRA-Registered Clinicians3 Melbourne LocationsSports-Focused ExpertiseEvidence-Based CareNo Referral Required15+ Years ExperienceOpen Mon–SatHICAPS AvailableAHPRA-Registered Clinicians3 Melbourne LocationsSports-Focused ExpertiseEvidence-Based CareNo Referral Required15+ Years Experience
Bow Legs Treatment

Bow legs (genu varum) is a condition where the knees sit outside the midline of the upper and lower legs. This can be to the point where the ankles are touching but the knees cannot come together.

Unlike knock knees, bow legs are not a normal part of the developmental process for children. While a wide base of gait is normal for kids aged 1-3, actual bow legs should be assessed promptly to rule out underlying conditions.

Podiatrist assessing a child's leg alignment

We Accept All Major Health Funds

HICAPS on-the-spot rebates at all clinics. No referral needed.

Book Appointment
AAMI
Medibank
Suncorp
Health Insurance
Frank
Bupa
HCF
Allianz
When to Seek Assessment

If you feel your child has bow legs, it is important to have this checked professionally. Bow legs can indicate underlying conditions that need attention, and early assessment leads to better outcomes.

  • Visible outward curving of the legs at the knees
  • Ankles touching but knees unable to come together
  • Unusual walking pattern or gait
  • Pain or discomfort in the legs, knees or hips
  • Difficulty with balance or coordination
  • Concern about progression as your child grows
Dr Steven Singh treating a young patient
Contributing Factors

What Causes Bow Legs?

Bow legs can have several underlying causes, which is why a professional assessment is essential. Ruling out serious conditions early gives your child the best chance of proper treatment and healthy development.

01
Abnormal bone development
02
Rickets (vitamin D deficiency) or Blount's Disease
03
Fractures that may not have healed properly
04
Osteoarthritic changes (when bow legs develop in adulthood)
05
Genetic and hereditary factors
06
Underlying metabolic bone conditions
Our Assessment Process

We conduct a thorough assessment of your child's leg alignment, which may include imaging to determine the integrity of the knee joint and rule out underlying conditions.

  • Physical assessment of leg alignment and gait
  • X-ray referral with bulk billing options available
  • Assessment of joint integrity and bone development
  • Clear explanation of findings and next steps
Steve Singh examining a young patient's leg alignment

Why Choose MSP?

We combine clinical expertise with a patient-centered approach to get you back on your feet.

Book Your Appointment

Sports-Focused

Decades of combined experience treating foot, ankle, and movement concerns.

Evidence-Based Plan

Every plan is guided by proven research and tailored to your lifestyle.

Preventive Approach

We focus on identifying risks early to keep you moving comfortably.

Convenient Clinic Locations

Easily accessible clinics in Brighton, Richmond, and South Melbourne.

Collaborative Care

We work with your GP, physio, or coach for consistent recovery support.

Easy HICAPS Claims

Simple, instant health-fund claiming at every appointment.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity. We offer conservative treatments and can refer to affiliated orthopaedic surgeons for severe cases that require surgical intervention.

Conservative treatment for motor control and movement patterns
Exercises and activity modifications for active children
Measures to reduce the effects on athletic performance
Surgical referral for severe cases with affiliated specialists
Self-Care Guide

Monitoring & Follow-Up

Regular follow-up is important for children with bow legs to track progress and ensure treatment is working. We monitor alignment changes over time and adjust the treatment plan as your child grows.

1

Regular follow-up appointments to track alignment

2

Monitor for changes in gait or new symptoms

3

Ensure proper nutrition for bone health

4

Supportive footwear appropriate for your child

5

Activity modifications as needed during treatment

6

Prompt follow-up if pain develops or worsens

Consultation Fees & Rebates

No referral is needed. Our clinics accept most private health rebates, Medicare (with eligible referrals), TAC and WorkCover. X-ray bulk billing options are available if imaging is required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Unlike knock knees, bow legs are not a normal part of childhood development. While a wide base of gait is common in toddlers aged 1-3, actual bow legs where the knees curve outward should be assessed by a professional.
Bow legs can be caused by abnormal bone development, vitamin D deficiency (rickets), Blount's Disease, improperly healed fractures or genetic factors. A professional assessment with imaging can help identify the underlying cause.
Not necessarily. Many cases can be managed conservatively with exercises, activity modifications and monitoring. Surgery is reserved for severe cases and we work with affiliated orthopaedic surgeons when referral is needed.
No referral is needed. Book directly with Melbourne Sports Podiatry. If X-rays are required, we can arrange bulk billing referrals.

Our Clinics

Three convenient locations across Melbourne. Choose the clinic closest to you.

Call: 1300 332 201
Brighton clinic

Brighton

110 Bay Street

Richmond clinic

Richmond

329 Lennox Street

South Melbourne clinic

South Melbourne

3/186 York St