How to Correct a Knee Valgus

Knee valgus, or misalignment of the knee joint, is often associated with osteoarthritis of the knee and wear and tear. Knee valgus affects the alignment of your knee joint and places excessive stress on the joint. Excessive stress and wear and tear on your knee can make exercising and performing daily tasks painful. This condition needs to be examined by an orthopedic surgeon. An orthopedic surgeon can help diagnose, treat and prevent the progression of knee valgus.

Instructions

• 1

  Visit with your doctor. If you experience persistent knee pain or notice a visual deformity of your knee, contact your primary care doctor. Your primary care doctor will refer you to an orthopedic surgeon for a definite diagnosis and treatment.

• 2

  Make your appointment with the orthopedic specialist. Bring any x-rays or other imaging studies you may have had conducted on your knee to the appointment. The orthopedic surgeon will perform a physical examination. X-rays, M.R.I.'s or a CT scan may also be ordered to confirm knee valgus and rule out any other conditions. Your doctor will provide you with treatment options.

• 3

  Attend physical therapy. A physical therapist can work with you to help maintain or restore range of motion and strength in your affected knee. Complete home therapy exercises as instructed by your physical therapist.

• 4

  Use a knee brace. The brace can help to alleviate some of the stress placed on your knee as the result of the valgus. Talk to your doctor or physical therapist regarding the type of knee brace that is best for you.

• 5

  Have surgery. If conservative treatment fails, surgery may be used to correct knee valgus. Surgery may be performed to correct your knee joint. In severe cases, you may require a total knee replacement.