At what age are genu varum (bowlegs) typically considered normal?

• A. 1 year
• B. 3 years
• C. 5 years
• D. 8 years

Answer: (B)

Genu varum, commonly known as bowlegs, is a condition that is often seen in infants and toddlers as they begin to move. It's particularly normal in children due to the position they are in while in the womb and their early stages of walking. By age 3, many children start to show a more normal alignment as their bones continue to develop and their gait matures.

At this age, any persistent bowing of the legs is still expected and typically does not indicate a pathological condition. As they grow, the legs gradually straighten to a more neutral alignment. This developmental process is part of normal pediatric growth patterns. While some children may still show mild genu varum slightly beyond this age, by age 3 it's common for the majority to transition toward a more normal leg alignment.

Understanding this developmental progression helps in differentiating between physiological bowing that resolves naturally and potential pathologies that may need intervention, particularly if bowing persists beyond this age.