"Genu Valgum" refers to a condition in which the knees angle inward and touch each other, also known as "knock-knees". The spelling of the word is based on Latin roots, with "genu" meaning "knee" and "valgum" meaning "bowing outward". The phonetic transcription of "Genu Valgum" using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) is [ˈdʒɛnu ˈvælgəm], which helps to accurately represent the pronunciation of each individual sound within the word. Proper spelling and pronunciation of medical terms like "Genu Valgum" is crucial to effective communication among healthcare professionals.
Genu valgum is a medical condition that refers to a deformity of the lower limbs, specifically the knees. Also known as "knock-knees," genu valgum is characterized by a condition where the legs come together at the hips and thighs but diverge away from each other at the knees, resulting in the knees excessively touching or nearly touching while the ankles remain separated. This leads to an apparent gap between the ankles when the individual stands with their feet together.
Genu valgum can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, developmental abnormalities, metabolic disorders, and certain medical conditions such as rickets or skeletal dysplasia. Additionally, excessive weight gain or obesity can contribute to the progression of genu valgum.
The condition is typically diagnosed through physical examination and measurement of the angle between the tibial shafts. Treatment for genu valgum depends on the severity and underlying cause, but in many cases, the condition resolves naturally as the child grows.
However, if the condition persists or causes discomfort, treatment options may include physical therapy to strengthen the muscles and improve leg alignment, orthotic devices such as braces or shoe inserts, or, in rare cases, surgical intervention to correct the alignment of the knees.
Overall, the primary goal of treatment is to alleviate any pain or discomfort while ensuring proper lower limb alignment and functionality.
Knock-knee, in-knee; a deformity marked by abduction of the leg in relation to the thigh, the knee forming an angle with outer surface looking toward its fellow.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "genu valgum" is derived from Latin. "Genu" means "knee", while "valgum" means "bent outward". It is a combination of the Latin words "genus" (meaning "knee" or "hinged part") and "valgus" (meaning "bent outward" or "knock-kneed").