Common Knee

Valgus Knee/Varus Knee

What is it?

A valgus or varus knee is often associated with degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis (OA) orRheumatoid arthritis (RA). There may be a history of ligament damage which over time may cause knee instability. The knee position may be made worse by over pronation or over supination of the feet.


Common symptoms are knee pain and also a feeling of the knee giving way. In a Valgus knee, more stress is placed on the lateral (outside) part of the joint so outer knee pain is common. In a varus knee, more stress is placed on the medial (inside) part of the knee so inner knee pain is common. Due to altered lower limb biomechanics hip and/or back pain may also be experienced.


Orthotic treatment will depend on the severity of the problem. Options include:

Hinged knee support to provide mild control and sensory input and can reduce pain and the feeling “giving way”

Off-loading knee brace where more control is required to attempt to improve knee alignment/biomechanics