Limb deformity, leg length discrepancy, and inability to fully stretch and bend the knee
Bowleg deformity is a condition where the cartilage wears away, so the angle of the thighbone to shinbone falls outside of the normal range. Symptoms include difficulty walking, inability to bear weight on the leg, and reduced range of motion in the hips. They overload the inside (medial compartment) and stretch the outside (lateral collateral ligament), leading to knee pain and instability when walking.
The inability to fully stretch and bend the knee occurs when the cartilage that cushions your knee joint deteriorates and new bones form around the joints.The inability to fully stretch and bend the knee that occurs after sport-related injuries is caused by a meniscus tear. Symptoms include knee swelling and pain, especially when physically active.
Diseases or conditions which cause the symptoms
- Knee osteoarthritis
- Cartilage or meniscus injury
When to see a doctor
- Severe bowleg causing difficulty and awkward walking pattern
- Unable to fully stretch and bend the knee greater than 90 degrees
- Joint swelling, redness, stiffness, and warmth
