Introduction
Valgus knee, often referred to as “knock-kneed,” is a condition where the knee joint angles inward when viewed from the front. This deviation from the normal straight alignment can lead to various issues, including pain and instability. In this article, we will explore the concept of a valgus knee, its causes, effects on the kinetic chain, different types, and most importantly, non-surgical treatment options. We will also share an inspiring patient story highlighting the possibility of recovery without invasive surgery.
What is Valgus Knee?
A valgus knee, colloquially known as “knock-kneed,” is a condition where the knee joint deviates from its normal straight alignment. This misalignment causes the knees to angle inward, sometimes to the extent that they touch. But what causes this deformity?
What Causes Valgus Knee?
Previous Surgery
One common cause of valgus knee is prior knee surgery, where the lateral meniscus is surgically removed following a tear. This procedure can lead to a collapse of the knee’s lateral compartment, creating a natural spacer deficit.
Medial Collateral Ligament Sprain or Tear
Another contributing factor is an untreated medial collateral ligament (MCL) sprain or tear. When the MCL is compromised, the knee bones on the inside can spread apart, contributing to the valgus deformity. This condition is more prevalent in women due to their wider hips, which exert additional inward pressure on the knees.
Weak Hip Muscles
Long-term weakness in the hip, specifically the gluteus maximus (butt muscles), has also been associated with valgus knee. Weak hip muscles can allow the knee to collapse inward during stress, which can lead to various issues, including an increased risk of ACL injuries.
How Does Valgus Knee Affect the Kinetic Chain?
Valgus knee doesn’t just affect the knee joint; it disrupts the entire kinetic chain. The kinetic chain is a biomechanical system that encompasses the leg, responsible for transferring forces from the hip to the ground. When the knee is misaligned, it triggers a chain reaction, causing internal hip rotation and exerting abnormal forces on the hip and ankle.
Are There Different Types of Valgus Knee?
Valgus knee can vary in severity, with angles exceeding 20 degrees from the straight considered more severe. Classification is also based on whether the collateral ligaments on the side are tight or loose, which further affects treatment approaches.
How Is Valgus Deformity Treated?
Patients with valgus knee who develop lateral compartment arthritis often begin with treatments like cortisone steroid shots. However, these injections have been associated with detrimental effects on cartilage.
In some cases, patients may develop lateral meniscus tears due to increased pressure, but surgical interventions have shown limited effectiveness, with some studies suggesting outcomes similar to those of fake surgeries or physical therapy.
As a last resort, invasive knee replacement may be considered. In this procedure, the knee joint is surgically amputated, and a prosthesis is inserted. However, this option is typically reserved for severe cases.
Valgus Knee Patient Story
To shed light on the possibility of non-surgical treatment, let’s look at Pilar’s story. Pilar, a middle-aged woman with a right-sided valgus knee, experienced lateral compartment arthritis, leading to difficulty in climbing stairs and walking for extended periods.
Her condition was evaluated, and it was discovered that her MCL and ACL were loose, causing knee instability. Pilar’s story took a different turn as she opted for a non-surgical approach.
Pilar’s Non-Surgical Journey
Pilar’s treatment involved the extraction of bone marrow containing stem cells from her hip, followed by the concentration of these cells in the lab. The concentrated stem cells were then re-injected into several key structures:
- ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament)
- MCL (Medial Collateral Ligament)
- Medial patellofemoral fascia
- Lateral compartment
Four months after the procedure, Pilar reported an impressive 80% relief from her symptoms without the need for invasive orthopedic surgery, such as knee replacement. Her MCL and ACL ligaments had tightened, enhancing the stability of her knee. Moreover, her hip pain had significantly improved, as valgus knee often exerts pressure on the outside of the hip.
Conclusion
The conventional belief that valgus knee necessitates surgical intervention is being challenged by non-surgical alternatives. Pilar’s story serves as a testament to the efficacy of non-invasive treatments, offering hope to individuals suffering from valgus knee and lateral compartment arthritis.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can a valgus knee be corrected without surgery?
Yes, non-surgical treatments, such as stem cell therapy, have shown promise in correcting valgus knee deformities and relieving associated symptoms.
2. Are there any risks associated with surgical treatments for valgus knee?
Surgical treatments, like knee replacement, come with inherent risks, including infection, blood clots, and extended recovery periods.
3. What are the common symptoms of valgus knee?
Common symptoms include pain on the outside of the knee, instability, and difficulty with activities that require knee flexion, such as climbing stairs or walking.
4. How can one prevent valgus knee?
Maintaining strong hip muscles through targeted exercises and seeking early treatment for knee injuries can help prevent the development of valgus knee.
5. Is stem cell therapy a suitable option for all valgus knee patients?
Stem cell therapy may be suitable for some valgus knee patients, but individual factors and the severity of the condition must be considered when determining the most appropriate treatment approach.
