What is Genu Valgum commonly referred to as?

Prepare for the Orthopedic Technologist Certification Exam with flashcards, explanatory questions, and multiple-choice formats to enhance your knowledge and readiness. Ace your exam with confidence!

Genu Valgum is commonly referred to as "knock knees." This condition is characterized by a structural alignment issue in the knees where they touch or are very close together while the ankles remain apart. As a result, individuals with genu valgum have an appearance that resembles knees that are knocked inward.

This terminology is widely recognized in both clinical settings and everyday language, making it an important term for those studying orthopedic conditions. Understanding genu valgum is essential because it can impact a person’s gait, lead to knee pain, and contribute to other musculoskeletal issues over time. Recognizing the condition by its common name helps healthcare professionals communicate effectively about diagnosis and treatment options.

On the other hand, bowlegs describe a condition where the knees are spaced widely apart, making that option incompatible with genu valgum. Flat feet and high arches are terms that refer to conditions of the foot's arch structure, which do not pertain to knee alignment. Thus, "knock knees" is the accurate terminology for genu valgum.

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