Genu Recurvatum

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Genu recurvatum is a rare genetic knee dislocation characterized by hyperextension of the knee greater than 0° associated with limited flexion, with the distinction of the femoral condyles in the popliteal fossa and amplified transverse skin folds over the anterior surface of the knee. It may be unilateral or bilateral and may occur as either […] Read More

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Genu Recurvatum

Genu recurvatum is a rare genetic knee dislocation characterized by hyperextension of the knee greater than 0° associated with limited flexion, with the distinction of the femoral condyles in the popliteal fossa and amplified transverse skin folds over the anterior surface of the knee. It may be unilateral or bilateral and may occur as either an isolated malformation, in association with other orthopedic abnormalities (such as developmental dysplasia of the hip or clubfoot) or a part of a syndrome (for instance Larsen’s syndrome). Genu recurvatum causes could be due to muscle weakness (especially quadriceps), injury, or the shape of the bones at their knee. Types of genu recurvatum Genu recurvatum is of 3 types
  • External Rotary Deformity Recurvatum: This is an elevated heel with the forefoot pointing inwards, and the foot remaining in an equinovarus position while walking.
  • Internal Rotary Deformity Recurvatum: This occurs when the forefoot rotates outwards, compelling the patient to overextend the knee.
  • Non-rotary Deformity Recurvatum: This is an abnormal positioning of the knee, but the foot and ankle function normally.
Genu recurvatum treatment follows the RICE principle.
  • Rest: Halt the activity that caused the injury and seek medical attention. Also, take a break from high-intensity or high-impact activities and avoid contact sports.
  • Ice: Multiple times per day, ice the affected knee for 15 minutes. This can help bring down swelling and manage pain. 
  • Compression: Compressing the knee with a compression wrap or elastic bandage can also help manage to swell and reduce pain.
  • Elevation: Always try to elevate the leg above the heart whenever possible. For instance, one can lie in bed with the leg on a pillow or while relaxing in a recliner chair.
  • Surgery: While this is less common, genu recurvatum may also result in a tendon tear or rupture. This may require surgical repair.

Symptoms

The following are likely genu recurvatum symptoms

  • Extension gait pattern.
  • Pinching in front of the knee.
  • Difficulty with carrying out endurance activities.
  • Volatility of the knee
  • Decreased mobility
  • Swelling, bruising and pain

Causes

Genu recurvatum causes are numerous. Some of which have been highlighted:

  • Inherent negligence of the knee ligaments.
  • Feebleness of the biceps femoris muscle.
  • Instability of the knee joint as a result of ligaments and joint capsule injuries.
  • Wrong alignment of the tibia and femur.
  • Mal alignment of the bones around the knee.
  • Fragility of the hip extensor muscles.
  • Gastrocnemius muscle weakness (in a standing position).
  • Upper and lower motor neuron lesion.
  • Discrepancy in joint proprioception.
  • Lower limb length deficit.
  • Congenital genu recurvatum.
  • Cerebral palsy.
  • Muscular dystrophy.
  • Popliteus muscle weakness.
  • Connective tissue disorders.

FAQ

How do I fix genu recurvatum?

To fix genu recurvatum, the cause needs to first be determined.  

If the genu recurvatum cause is muscle weakness, a program for muscle strengthening or bracing may be designed and adopted. 

If genu recurvatum cause is due to an injury, the specific structures that were injured need to first be ascertained and whether they can be repaired or reconstructed to address the genu recurvatum. 

In a situation where we have a chronic injury or a bony problem with the tibia, the only answer may be bracing or a surgery.