Children playing sports at a Melbourne park
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Knock Knees Treatment in Melbourne

Professional assessment to determine if your child's knock knees need treatment or are part of normal development.

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
Knock Knees Treatment

Knock knees (genu valgum) is a condition where the knees point in towards one another while the feet and legs face straight. This can be to the point where the ankles are unable to touch without the knees knocking into each other.

The important thing to know is that knock knees are normal for certain ages. Based on average growth patterns, knock knees are most prevalent between ages 3-5. Above age 7, the legs tend to straighten as the hips and femur rotate into proper alignment. Knowing when to be concerned is where we can help.

Podiatrist assessing a child's knee alignment

We Accept All Major Health Funds

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

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AAMI
Medibank
Suncorp
Health Insurance
Frank
Bupa
HCF
Allianz
When Should You Be Concerned?

While knock knees are normal at certain ages, there are specific situations where you should seek a professional assessment. Catching problems early gives your child the best outcomes.

  • Knock knees present in children under 3 or over 7 years of age
  • Inward knee direction developing on one leg only
  • Family history of knee joint arthritis
  • Pain forming in the lower back, hips, knees or ankles
  • Concerns about how it may affect movement and coordination for sport
Children's legs showing knock knee alignment
Contributing Factors

What Causes Knock Knees?

Knock knees can be a normal part of childhood development or may indicate an underlying issue that needs attention. Understanding the difference is key to deciding on the right approach.

01
Normal developmental stage between ages 3-5
02
Delayed alignment correction beyond age 7
03
Underlying bone or joint conditions
04
Vitamin D deficiency affecting bone development
05
Genetic factors and family history
06
Injury or trauma affecting leg alignment
What We Do at Your Appointment

Your child will receive a thorough assessment of their knee alignment, including measurements that allow us to track improvements over time. In some cases, imaging may be needed.

  • Leg measurements to compare and track over time
  • X-ray referral if needed (bulk billing options available)
  • Assessment of gait and movement patterns
  • Discussion of severity and treatment options
Steve Singh examining a child's knee alignment

Why Choose MSP?

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

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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 your child's age, the severity of the knock knees and whether they are causing pain or affecting movement. Our approach ranges from monitoring and exercises to more involved interventions for severe cases.

Wedging in shoes to correct alignment
Strength exercises and stretching programs
Gait retraining and movement correction
Surgical referral for severe cases (with affiliated orthopaedic surgeons)
Self-Care Guide

Monitoring & Peace of Mind

Not all knock knees need treatment. Sometimes the most important thing we can do is give you peace of mind that your child is developing normally. For those who do need intervention, early action leads to better outcomes.

1

Regular check-ups during growth periods

2

Monitor for changes in alignment or new symptoms

3

Encourage balanced physical activity

4

Supportive footwear appropriate for your child's age

5

Follow prescribed exercise programs consistently

6

Book a follow-up if pain develops or alignment 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

Yes, knock knees are a normal part of development between ages 3-5. By age 7, most children's legs straighten naturally. If knock knees persist beyond this age, develop on one side only or cause pain, a professional assessment is recommended.
Seek an assessment if knock knees are present outside the normal age range (under 3 or over 7), if only one leg is affected, if your child has pain in the knees, hips or back, or if there is a family history of knee arthritis.
In most cases, yes. Conservative treatments including shoe wedging, exercises and gait retraining are effective for many children. Surgery is only considered for severe cases that do not respond to other treatments.
No referral is needed. You can 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